Morris Plains Kids: Gone Fishin' for Trout

In many Morris Plains homes, the kids brought dinner home on Saturday. It happens every year on the day of Uncle Frank's Fishing Contestr. "Uncle Frank" is mayor Frank Druetzler–and he's been at every fishing contest for the last 36 years.

Locals 13 and younger brought their rods and reels to the Community Pond early Saturday morning to try their luck catching a trout dinner. Or, in some cases, a catfish dinner, as was the case for young Matt  Lopez who caught the first fish of the day.  The Community Park Pond was stocked with trout, but the young anglers still managed to catch a few catfish, sunfish, and even a few bass throughout the morning.  No matter the type of fish, they were no match for the 60 plus fishermen (and fisherwomen!) casting their lines into the deep.

“It’s been 36 years since the Morris Plains Rotary sponsored the first fishing derby.”  Mayor Frank Druetzler said.  “And I’ve been to every one!”  

Well, “Uncle Frank” should have plenty of fish tales to share with this year’s winners:

Matt Lopez  -  1st Catch of the Day

Callie and Kelsey Volker Alex Braun -  Most Caught 30 trout

Callie and Kelsey Volker -  Largest Fish 17”

Alex Braun - 2nd Largest 16.5”  

 After the contest “Uncle Frank” assured the Community of Caring that there were still quite a trout few out there.  Judging from the young people who remained… not for long!