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A popular youth fishing derby is returning to the Port Dover area this weekend, giving 80 young anglers a chance to hit the water at no cost to their families.
Fishing ABC was founded by Barbara French and Jesse Whalen. It began as a Facebook group in 2019, created as a welcoming place for children between two and 16 and their families to learn about fishing.
French said the idea grew from an upsetting experience involving a young autistic angler who was criticized online over a photo showing him handling a fish.
The online group has since grown to more than 1,000 members, while its annual derby has become so popular that registration can fill within hours.
This year’s event will be held Saturday on private property in the Port Dover area and is already full, with a waiting list in place.
Everything is free for the participating children, from lunch to prizes. French said that is especially important at a time when many families are watching their budgets.
Thirty-six sponsors are supporting this year’s derby. Young anglers will leave with bags filled with fishing products valued at roughly $150 to $200, while prizes will be handed out for categories including biggest fish, smallest fish and most fish.
For the first time, every participant will also receive a custom UV-protective Fishing ABC jersey. Donations from Lions and Kinsmen clubs in Port Dover and Simcoe helped make the jerseys possible.
French said the support of the fishing community and local organizations is what keeps the event going.
With 80 spots filled and more children waiting for an opening, French and Whalen are now discussing ways Fishing ABC could grow in the future, potentially through an additional derby.
Parents interested in future events are encouraged to join the Fishing ABC Facebook group, where registration details and updates are posted throughout the year.
Written by Jeremy Hall
