by Rachel Hunter

The Bob Davis Memorial Kids Fishing Derby is more than a summer event—it’s a living legacy, a heartfelt tradition that has shaped the rhythm of August on Trout Lake for nearly half a century.

Established in 1976 by Bob Davis himself, the derby was born from his deep love for fishing and his desire to share that joy with the children of the North Country. Today, 49 years later, the shoreline still echoes with laughter, the splash of cast lines, and the quiet thrill of young anglers discovering the magic of the outdoors.

Held the first weekend of August in Hermon, NY, the derby transforms Trout Lake into a place of wonder and welcome. This year, on August 2nd and 3rd, 52 children participated across four age groups: 12 in ages 1–4, 9 in ages 5–8, 23 in ages 9–12, and 8 in ages 13–15.

Each child received a prize simply for showing up and casting a line—because here, participation is celebrated as much as achievement.

For those who caught five or more fish, their names were entered into a special drawing for grand prizes that included a small boat with trolling motor in memory of Lenny Zeller, a kayak donated by the Goodrow family, a parent-child charter trip from S.W.A.T. Fishing’s Eric Geary of Pulaski, NY, and a family charter trip from Rodney Richmond, Pulaski, NY.

The competition itself was spirited and joyful. Landon Matson caught the most fish on Saturday, Kyra Horne led Sunday’s count, and Jillie Tresidder earned top honors for most fish caught over the weekend. Vivian Tresidder landed the largest game fish—a 19¾-inch bass.

Age group winners were as follows: In the 1-4 years age category, first place went to Hudsyn White, second place went to Mavrick Dumoulin, third place to David Davenport. In the 5-8 years age category, first place went to Jillie Tresidder, second place went to Olivia White, third place to Theodore Fuller. In the 9-12 years age category, first place went to Joey Hasan, second place to Pearson Fagel, third place to Landon Matson. In the 13-15 years age category, first place went to Gage Horne, second place went to Payton Wood, third place went to Lance Goodrow.

But the derby is more than numbers and trophies—it’s a reunion, a remembrance, and a ripple of love cast across the water. It’s where families gather, stories are shared between casts, and the spirit of Bob Davis lives on in every baited hook and every child’s smile. The event concludes with a free picnic for all participants and their families, where prizes are awarded and gratitude flows freely. It’s a moment to honor not just the winners, but the community that makes it all possible.

The Davis family, who lost Bob in 2008 and his wife in 2018, continues to steward this tradition with grace and devotion. Their commitment ensures that Bob’s love for fishing and children remains a guiding light on Trout Lake. They extend heartfelt appreciation to the many generous supporters who make the derby possible year after year: VFW Post 1231, JJ Elmer Tackle of Red Creek, Kinney Drugs, Patrick Hughes, PA, Trout Lake Association, Edwards Lions Club, Coakley’s Hardware, Woody’s Market, the Zeller Family, Sally McElhearn, Main Street Market, Clary Bait & Tackle, and B & B Properties, who handles all the generous bottle and can donations.

And most of all, they thank the little fishermen and their families—the heartbeat of this tradition.

The Bob Davis Memorial Kids Fishing Derby is not just a tournament. It’s a gift. A legacy. A celebration of childhood, community, and the enduring joy of casting a line into the water and feeling, for a moment, the tug of something timeless.