Hundreds of families gathered at the shoreline of Palmer Lake on Saturday for the annual Tri-Lakes Kids Fishing Derby, a long-running tradition which encourages children to cast a line and enjoy a morning of outdoor fun for families in the region.

Hosted and organized by the Tri-Lakes Lions Club, the event draws young anglers from across El Paso County and farther, many of whom are trying out fishing for the first time. Children ages 4-14 were eligible to participate between three separate age groups, with prizes awarded to those who catch the longest fish in their age group.

According to Jim Hazuka of the Tri-Lakes Lions Club, 352 kids registered for this year’s derby, a notable increase from last year’s total of 285. With nearly 200 parents and dozens of volunteers and onlookers, the crowd swelled to around 600 people, which he considered an impressive turnout for the location.

“It’s extraordinary,” Hazuka said. “The weather helped a lot this year, and I think more families in Monument are getting the word. Plus, this is our tenth year, and the Lions couldn’t do it without the support of all the sponsors and volunteers.”

Eight-year-old Noomi Reiss, who took first place in the 8–11 age category, reeled in one of the derby’s largest trout of the day at 13.5 inches. Though shy and soft-spoken, Noomi said she used PowerBait to land the winning fish, which gave her a bit of a fight before she brought it to shore. It was the biggest catch of her young fishing career so far. She had a good time at the derby and plans to return next year to defend her title, she said.

Two others in her age group, Emerson Petty (second place) and Finnegan Karas (first), also tied for the largest catch measuring the same length. Leo Kobeisi also recorded a 13.5” trout in the tournament’s Age 4-7 group to finish first in his category as well.

More than 40 volunteers, including Lions Club members, helped run the event. Among the biggest attractions was a booth from the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, which returned for its second year. Hazuka said the zoo appreciates the visibility and steady flow of visitors which the derby brings.

The derby coincides each year with Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s statewide free fishing weekend, meaning no license is required for children or accompanying adults. In addition, CPW gave away 407 fishing poles and 400 bait kits, while Bass Pro Shops donated tackle boxes, hats, and gift cards for each child who finished in the top three of each age group.

“No fishing licenses are required for adults today, so families can come out and enjoy the day without spending a dime,” Hazuka said. “Fishing is a great way for families to connect.”

The event was free to attend, though organizers encouraged families to bring nonperishable food items to donate to Tri-Lakes Cares, a local nonprofit which supports families in need of assistance.

The Lions Club ran a leaderboard throughout the event, tracking fish lengths at the park’s pavilion. Volunteers remained on site to help measure fish, manage equipment, and ensure a fun and safe environment for attendees.

The lake was stocked with several thousand trout just a day prior, thanks to coordination with Colorado Parks and Wildlife and area manager Corey Adler.

“Who wants to go fishing and not catch fish?” Hazuka laughed. “This way, everyone has fun.”

Organizers also credited a digital marketing campaign by local firm 3G Engagement for helping boost attendance. Hazuka said 66% of attendees reported learning about the derby through digital channels last year, and that figure is expected to be even higher this year.