Families enjoy Troy Kids' Fishing Day
Kristen Grace Hoffman and Riley Hunter Hancock admire a trout Kayden Hoffman caught on Saturday, June 11, at the Troy Kids’ Fishing Derby at Roosevelt Park. (Scott Shindledecker/The Western News)
The joy of fishing and catching fish was never more evident at last Saturday’s 18th annual Troy Kids’ Fishing Day at the Troy Community Pond at Roosevelt Park.
Whether they were landing a rainbow trout, watching grandma untangle their line or just running around the pond, children smiled and laughed with delight. Everyone also got the chance to watch an immature bald eagle grab a trout in the middle of the pond.
An osprey had eyed the fish before the eagle took charge. The osprey chased the eagle, but the larger bird had the upper hand in getting an easy meal while the osprey had to keep hunting before it found its dinner.
The kids also enjoyed watching two different Canada goose families, including several rapidly growing goslings.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sponsored the event, which hadn’t been held since 2019 due to COVID-19. Libby Sports Center donated several items, including fishing rod and reel sets, tackle boxes and lures, that were given to the children.
U.S. Forest Service Fisheries Biologist Chris Rossel, who helped run the event, was thankful for Sports Center’s donations.
“We’d like to express our gratitude for Libby Sports Center’s donations to help make this a great event for kids and families,” Rossel said. “My first fishing experience last at an event just like this one.”
The Troy Community Pond was constructed 20 years ago when FWP partnered with the City of Troy to help build the pond.
“We’re glad this event is back, it’s always one of the enjoyable things to do,” said Troy resident Susie Taylor, of the Chamber of Commerce president.