The Derby will be held Sunday, June 8. Check-in begins at 4 a.m. Fishing begins at 6 a.m., and awards are at 2 p.m. The derby falls on the Massachusetts Free Fishing Weekend, therefore, fishing licenses are not required.
“It’s a terrific day, whether you’re a serious fisherman or you just want to enjoy some fun with your kids. It’s amazing to see entire families enjoying the day on the pond,” said Bob Wing, president of the Wankinquoah Rod and Gun Club. “This event brings back many memories for people who have fished here for years and is also a great opportunity to make new friends,” he said.
“This event has really grown in the last few years, just like the Associates (youth) program itself. We offer free breakfast, bait and lunch on site, and two different raffles. Best of all, it allows our Associates to show responsibility in planning, promoting, and running a legacy event for the club. I am so impressed that this event is basically run by teenage kids,” said Mike Houdlette, associate advisor.
Prizes will be awarded in multiple categories for adults and juniors. Enter the raffle for a chance to win prizes like a 12-foot Tracker Jon boat, a Minn Kota trolling motor, and New England Patriots tickets. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Wankinquoah Rod and Gun Club Associates, the club’s youth group. Prizes and raffles are made possible through the generosity of the following local businesses: M & D’s Bait & Tackle, Zecco Marine, Sullivan’s Wine and Spirits, Shirt Shack and Minerva’s Pizzeria of Wareham.
Anglers can fish from shore, or bring their boat, canoe, or kayak. Nemasket Kayak Center in Tihonet Village is offering a 10 percent discount on rentals during the derby. Representatives from the Wareham Harbormaster’s Department will be on hand to discuss boat and water safety with attendees. Life preservers are required for anyone who would like to put a boat in for the event, though the Harbormaster will have a limited selection on hand to borrow if necessary. Also, there are no combustible engines allowed on Tihonet Pond.
The fee is $12 for adults and $3 for children age 14 and younger. The fee includes breakfast. Burgers and dogs will be available to purchase and Makepeace Farms will offer sandwiches, soup, ice cream and fresh baked goods.
Online registration and more information about the Associates program may be found at www.wrgcassociates.weebly.com. Forms are also available at Shirt Shack, 260 Marion Road, Wareham or M&D Bait & Tackle, 49 Main St., Wareham. Pre-registration is offered, and highly recommended, on Saturday, June 7, from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Box Mill Hall, Tihonet Village, 150 Tihonet Road, Wareham. Derby day registration is also available. For more information call 508-295-1000.