Fishing Derby reels in big crowd with over 220 youth participants
The City of Newcastle’s annual Youth Fishing Derby made a splash with its firstever evening format this year, drawing more than 220 young anglers to the pond for an unforgettable night of fishing, fun, and friendly competition.
Originally postponed due to weather, the rescheduled derby still saw strong participation, with 370 kids pre-registered and an additional 98 registering on-site, for a total of 468 participants.
“Even with the heat, the turnout was amazing,” said Parks and Recreation Director Kyle Marks. “We loved seeing so many families come together to enjoy the evening and try something new.”
Organized by the City of Newcastle Parks and Recreation Department, the derby continues to grow thanks to strong community engagement, the support of generous sponsors, and the help of dedicated volunteers.
This year’s derby also featured some standout competitors. Congratulations to our 2025 Fishing Derby winners:
• Best Dressed Angler: Tytus Kenney
• 6 & Under – Biggest Fish:
• 1st Place – Henley Moore
• 2nd Place – Andrew Wilkerson
• Ages 7–10 – Biggest Fish:
• 1st Place – Hudsyn Moore
• 2nd Place – Chris Musick • Ages 11–15 – Biggest Fish:
• 1st Place – Levi Meget
• 2nd Place – Ryder Vancuren • Longest Fish Overall: Hudsyn Moore Marks said a heartfelt thank you goes out to the Newcastle Rotary Club for volunteering their time and to all the families who came out to support their young anglers.
This event was made possible with the support of several generous community sponsors, Marks said.
They include: Snow Enterprises LLC, Triton Foundation and Repair, Pioneer Telephone, Oklahoma Natural Gas, Oklahoma Electric Cooperative, The First National Bank and Trust, Community Bank of Newcastle, Contemporary Family Dentistry, Tinker Federal Credit Union, Norman Regional Health System, and Boing City Party Rentals.
“We’re proud of how far this event has come,” Marks said. “It’s a reflection of what can happen when a community comes together, and we’re already looking forward to next year.”
For more information on programs and future events, read the Newcastle Pacer, follow Newcastle Parks & Recreation on Facebook, or visit the City of Newcastle’s website at newcastleok.gov/ events.
