Fishing Derby Shines as a Chicago Hidden Gem – Photos

Nestled amidst the bustling streets and towering skyscrapers of Chicago lies a well-kept secret that brings joy to families and young anglers alike – the Steve Demitro Fishing Derby. Despite the city’s urban landscape, this event has emerged as a cherished tradition, offering a unique opportunity for children to connect with nature and enjoy the serene sport of fishing.

In its fourth year, the Steve Demitro Fishing Derby transforms a picturesque Mckinley Park Lagoon in Chicago into a fishing haven, stocked with 2,500 fish for the derby. Families gather at the scenic park, where children eagerly cast their lines and compete to catch the most fish. With experienced volunteers on hand to provide guidance and teach essential fishing skills, it’s not just about the thrill of the catch, but also about fostering a love for the outdoors and conservation. The event’s success lies in its ability to bring the community together, promoting a sense of camaraderie and an appreciation for Chicago’s often-overlooked natural beauty.

A heartwarming moment captured in a photo from the derby: a young war refugee from Ukraine, now a student at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic School, proudly holding a fish.

And the Winners Are…

1^st and second place prizes. The 1^st place prize for the most fish caught was by Evan Leung and he won a bicycle donated by the Hamburg club in Bridgeport. 2^nd place went to Abigail Sung and she won a bicycle donated by American Legion William McKinley Post.

We would like to express our gratitude to every organization, business, and volunteer who contributed to bringing smiles to the faces of these families and children at this Fishing Derby. Words alone cannot convey the immense joy you have brought to these kids.

Children thoroughly enjoyed the presence of the Chicago Mounted Police and their horses at the fishing derby.

The NFL Alumni Chicago Chapter generously provided each participant at the derby with a $100 restaurant gift card.

The Steve Demitro Fishing Derby has established itself as the best fishing derby in Chicago, and it is now poised to achieve the status of the top kids’ fishing derby in the entire nation.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources offering information about the great outdoors.

Among the many prize winners, two individuals were captured in a photograph with members of the NFL Alumni Chicago Chapter, proudly showcasing fishing rods with tackle boxes provided by the St. Joseph’s Club in Bridgeport.

Photograph displayed above: Recipient of a $50 Bass Proshop Gift Card. Bass Proshop generously contributed four gift cards to the derby.

McDonald’s provided lunch for everyone, and it was delicious!

How exciting is it to see the Chicago Mounted Police and their majestic horses joining us at the fishing derby to inspire and entertain the kids!

Have you ever witnessed kids with happier expressions than when they catch their very first fish?

There’s a rich fishing history shared among the individuals in this photograph.

Chicago Police and Illinois Department of Natural Resources lent a helping hand at the derby.

For those seeking an escape from the urban hustle and bustle, the Steve Demitro Fishing Derby is indeed a gem worth discovering in the heart of the Windy City.

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