Children and their families gathered around the pond at the Hamburg Fish and Game Association on Saturday and Sunday, May 21 and 22. The weekend marked the 59th Annual Children’s Fishing Rodeo, which is offered free to the youngsters.
The event has become a tradition with Hamburg residents since it’s start in 1957. This year was no exception.
“When we get there at 6 a.m. to start getting ready there are already people at the dam waiting with their children,” Debra Kline, event organizer, said.
To prepare for the event, the association stocked 1,700 pounds of trout in their pond surrounded by woods. Varieties included rainbow and golden trout, obtained from S & A Hatchery.
“We have 53 fish that are all 18-25 inches and prizes galore. The kids have a lot of fun,” Kline’s husband, Donald, said at the event. The stocked pond made for exciting catches on both days.
Preston Conver, 5, Hamburg, caught his first two fish in his lifetime on Sunday afternoon. He proudly displayed the trout for all to see.
“The first fish was a 12 and a quarter inch, and the other one was a 13 inch,” he said.
The overall winner of the rodeo was JJ Krick of Shoemakersvile, who caught two fish on both days, totaling 70 inches. He received a cash prize, donated by Chris Himmelberger in memory of Walt Himmelberger. JJ’s name will also be inscribed on a plaque in the association’s club house.
A new twist to the rodeo this year was the addition of 20 “tagged” fish, sponsored by Local Union 240, S& A Hatchery, Terry Bixler and the Hamburg Fish and Game Association. Children who caught any of these fish received a cash prize along with two pieces of camping gear – either a tent and lantern or a sleeping bag and camp chair. Other groups and association members donated prizes and raffle items.
Children who registered both days won prizes, from smallest fish to the largest combined inches by age category. Many won door prizes, as well, and all children were treated to free hot dogs, drinks and a bag of chips. Hamburg Area High School’s Wilderness Club staffed the food stand, using the opportunity to earn volunteer hours.
Kline noted that the rodeo has become a family tradition for Hamburg-area residents.
“Kids that fished here bring their kids, and grandparents bring grandkids,” she said.
Volunteers also staff the rodeo in honor of family tradition. Sisters Ann and Marie Postupak fished at the event until they were 15, and volunteer today as adults.
“It’s a good experience for the kids to learn how to fish,” Ann said. Her sister added, laughing, “I don’t think I’m allowed NOT to help!”
Mike Drumheller, emcee and “man around the pond,” asked children about their catches between sets of lively radio tunes. He has been doing so for 18 years.
“Each morning, I walk around and interview the kids,” he explained. “They just love it, and I love seeing the expression on their faces.”
Kline noted kitchen volunteers start their work at 5 a.m. both days, and that all volunteers work long hours at the rodeo.
“We have a lot of the same crew every year that are dedicated to make the rodeo a success and new people as well come to volunteer,” Kline said. “Without them, this just would not happen.”
The Hamburg Fish and Game Association is located at 935 North 5th Street, Hamburg, and offers family-friendly activities throughout the year. For details on events and membership, call the association at 610-562-3532.
