Kids can get their fish on during the inaugural Keith Romaine Memorial Snapper Derby in Center Moriches this September. Open to children up to 18-years-old can compete in a variety of different categories including biggest fish. Prizes are being donated by the Montauk Surfcasters Association and the Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches.
According to a description of the event by Brookhaven Town, entry to the derby is limited to 50 participants, due to current Covid-19 restrictions. Participants will need to bring their own fishing pole, bait and bucket. Each fisherman or woman will receive a complimentary tee-shirt, while supplies last, donated by the Montauk Surfcasters Association.
“We strongly believe the youth of today is our future and the future of fishing is our youth,” said William Jakob, of the Montauk Surfcasters Association.
All participants will have to wear a mask throughout the event, and social distancing guidelines must be followed. Participants are asked to make a $5 donation to benefit the Moriches Bay Project, an environmental organization dedicated to improving water quality through oyster farming. The donation will be collected at check-in on the day of the event.
Brookhaven Councilman Dan Panico said he hopes it will be a success.
“Fishing for snappers is a fun way to spend the day and we look forward to making this derby an annual event,” said Panico.
For more information and to register, please visit the Snapper Derby registration page.