The first-ever Cops and Bobbers Fishing Derby in the Town of Ogden brought together local families, young anglers, police officers, volunteers, and community partners for a memorable morning along the Erie Canal.
Held at the Spencerport Canal Depot, the event welcomed 65 children and their families for a morning of fishing, fun, and connection. After a cloudy start, the skies cleared to reveal a beautiful sunny day, creating ideal conditions for a morning on the water.
“Over a year ago, Rick and Tracey D’Ambrosia approached Spencerport Rotary with an idea for a Cops and Bobbers Fishing Derby,” said Colleen Farley, member of the Rotary Club of Spencerport. “Rotarians embraced the opportunity to create a fun community event while partnering with other organizations. That goal was definitely accomplished. The kids had a great time catching fish, laughter filled the air, and the weather cooperated.”
Young anglers ages 3 to 15 cast their lines alongside members of the Ogden Police Department and volunteers, creating lasting memories and strengthening relationships throughout the town. Participants of all experience levels took part, from first-time fishers to seasoned anglers.
“Our first Cops and Bobbers event was a tremendous success, and I couldn’t be more proud of everyone who helped make it possible,” said Ogden Police Chief Travis Gray. “A sincere thank you to the volunteers, sponsors, organizers, and officers who dedicated their time and effort to creating such a positive experience for the children and families in our community.
“Events like this highlight the importance of building strong relationships between law enforcement and the community we serve. Community engagement remains a priority for the Ogden Police Department, and we’re already looking forward to making next year’s event even bigger and better.”
Awards were presented in three age categories, ages 3 to 6, 7 to 10, and 11 to 15, recognizing both the heaviest and longest fish caught during the event. A special award was also presented for the participant with the most catches.
Among the day’s highlights was an impressive 14.5-pound, 33½-inch carp, the largest fish caught during the derby. Other notable catches included a catfish and the event’s most talked-about catch, the rare “Canal Shoe Fish,” reeled in by none other than Town Supervisor Mike Zale.
The event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Town of Ogden, the Rotary Club of Spencerport, the Ogden Police Department, Aire Serv of Rochester, Runnings of Brockport, and numerous volunteers and community partners. Spencerport McDonald’s and Union Street Coffee House generously provided awards for participants.
“We received overwhelmingly positive feedback about how meaningful this event was for the community,” said Aire Serv Vice President Tracey D’Ambrosia. “It provided a great opportunity for police officers to engage with the public in a friendly and supportive environment. The excitement on the children’s faces as they approached the weigh station to see their fish measured was truly priceless. The event was completely free, and thanks to the strong turnout of volunteers, everything ran smoothly and successfully.”
With smiles, laughter, and plenty of fish stories shared throughout the morning, the inaugural Cops and Bobbers Fishing Derby proved to be a wonderful event and a great example of neighbors coming together to enjoy the outdoors, build positive connections, and create lasting memories.
“This past weekend’s Cops and Bobbers event was an amazing turnout and a fantastic first installment of what we hope will become a longstanding community tradition,” said Ogden Town Supervisor Mike Zale. “It was a beautiful morning along the Erie Canal, and my boys, along with the many other children who attended, had smiles on their faces throughout the event and that’s what this event was all about.
I am grateful to all the sponsors, volunteers, and local partners who helped make this inaugural event possible, and I look forward to continuing this tradition in the years ahead.”
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Photos provided by Rooted Studio
