The Marin Rod and Gun Club, started in 1926, celebrated its 91st birthday this year and is one of California’s oldest and, in my opinion, best clubs in the state.

August 19, 2017 saw the 29^th Annual “Kid’s Day on the Pier” at the Marin Rod & Gun Club on San Quentin Point in San Rafael, California. The event was co-sponsored this year by UPSAC (United Pier and Shore Anglers of California), PFIC (Pier Fishing In California), and the IGFA (International Game Fish Association).

The day saw an enthusiastic group of 57 youngsters, a crowd of roughly 150 people, great weather (until the winds decided to be a little gnarly), and a very good number of fish.

Loaner rods and reels were available as well as free bait and assistance when needed. Combined with the fishing was a free hot dog lunch and every participant received a rod and reel from the club.

Marin Rod & Gun Club members worked at a variety of jobs

UPSAC/PFIC Members Brian Linebarger and Robert Gardner helped rig up the UPSAC loaner rods for the kids.

The pier was full of families enjoying the great outdoors!

Mother and Child!

Jacksmelt were the predominate catch of the day!

This was the largest striped bass of the day

Hans Jones Jr. with a bat ray — Photo courtesy of Hans Jones

Hans Jones and Hans Jones Jr.

Monteriro Family

Mel Kon from Pier Fishing In California

Photo courtesy of Rita Magdamo

Fish On!

Leopard Shark — Photo courtesy of Rita Magdamo

Bat Ray — Photo courtesy of Hans Jones & Rita Magdamo

UPSAC/PFIC member Robert Gardner with a jacksmelt to be used for live bait

UPSAC/PFIC member Brian Linebarger with a Diamond Turbot

Each individual age group winner received a 1^st Place trophy, a beautiful IGFA certificate, and an autographed copy of Pier Fishing in California by Ken Jones.

The crowd waiting for the derby results to be announced

Ken Jones and John Evans announcing the results

Age group winners: 5-year-old and under: (Tie) Sierra Maeda and Liam Connell (2 time winner)

Sierra Maeda

Liam Connell

6-year-old: (Tie) Eva Orsi and Azai Handy.

Eva Orsi

Azai Handy

7-year-old winner Nicholas Yaitanes

8-year-old: Tyler Yerkey — No photo

9-year-old winner: Michel Monteiro (2 time winner)

10-year-old winner: Priscilla Villalpando

11-year-old winner: David Shigematsu

12-year-old winner: Micah Sweet

13-year-old winner: Dylan Monteiro (3-time winner) 

14-year-old winner: Ethan Chu

15-year old winner: Emily Olewinski.

The largest fish of the day included a 25-inch striped bass by Eric Jamison Stone (who also caught a 15-inch striper and a 14-inch halibut), a 26-inch leopard shark and 15-inch striped bass by Liam Connell; a 39-inch bat ray and 19-inch leopard shark by Priscilla Villalpando; two large bat rays by Michel Monteiro; a 15-inch halibut by Michael Ng; a 16-inch striper by Alexander Yaitanes; a medium-sized striped bass by Cody Monteiro, and several large 13-15-inch jacksmelt.

Representing the Marin Rod and Gun Club: Chairmen Gary Colmere, Vice-Chaiman Roy Jackson, John Evans and upwards of 30 or more club members who performed a plethora of duties—serving as judges on the pier, cleaning and fixing rods and reels for both the derby and the raffle, cooking the hot dog lunch, setting up and cleaning the auditorium and kitchen, helping with the registration, and helping announce the results of the raffle.

Gary Colmere

Roy “Sarge” Jackson

Representing UPSAC: President Ken Jones, Vice-President Robert Gardner, Secretary Brian Linebarger, Board Members: Hans Jones and Rita Magdamo.

Representing the Pier Fishing in California (pierfishing.com) website family were the above UPSAC members as well as  Melvin Kon.

A huge thank you goes to the Marin Gun and Rod Club and the various other organizations and volunteers for putting on this great annual event.

All unattributed photos, with the exception of the derby winners, taken by Ken Jones — Derby winner photos taken by Rita Magdamo

It was windy the night before but Sunday, September 25, 2016 turned out to be a beautiful day at Trinidad, the small town located on California’s scenic redwood-forested, northwest coast just 24 miles north of Eureka. It was a perfect day to go fishing!

Getting the loaner rods and reels ready

Luckily, a kids fishing derby just happened to be scheduled at the Trinidad Pier. The event was the 3nd Annual Trinidad Pier Youth Fishing Derby sponsored by United Pier and Shore Anglers of California (UPSAC), the Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria, the International Game Fish Association (IGFA), Humboldt Area Saltwater Anglers, Pacific Outfitters, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Mary Patyten setting up the California Fish and Wildlife Display unit

The United Pier and Shore Anglers of California (UPSAC) banner

Getting the prizes and trophies ready to go

Free loaner rods and reels, free terminal tackle, free bait, free hot dog lunches, raffle prizes, and a winner in each age group helped generate excitement. In response, 96 youngsters turned out to enjoy the short-sleeve weather and fishing which, although a little slow, did produce a variety of fish—cabezon, buffalo sculpin, kelp greenling, and shinerperch.

Carrie Wilson from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and Ken Jones from United Pier and Shore Anglers of California helping with registration (Photo courtesy of Ed Roberts)

Carrie Wilson

It was beautiful shorts and short sleeve shirt weather

 As at the previous tournaments, a large group of parents and friends, estimated at 200+ people (not counting dogs) also attended making the event a true family event, one full of smiles and good-will.

The first fish of the day was a kelp greenling caught by Malaki Costa (Photo courtesy of Ed Roberts)

“My fish”

Getting the whole family involved.

There were a LOT of families

People checking out the Fish and Wildlife information (Photo courtesy of Ed Roberts)

Catching any fish?

Is this the way?

Either let me fish or give me that sandwich!

First fishing trip?

She’s ready to catch a fish

I hope I catch a fish

Showing ‘em how it’s done.

Are those good raspberries?

Family time!

Let me show you how to hold that reel

Bonding!

What a grin!

It is always special when a father takes the girls out fishing!

Lots of smiles!

Family time!

Who’s going to catch the fish?

Parents and grandparents!

Looks like they are set.

Pretty nice weather for the coast.

A lot of smiles.

They’re all ready.

I think a fish is going to bite.

Hey Mom!

Officer Wells of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Photo courtesy of Ed Roberts)

Sitting back and enjoying life.

Nothing like taking your kid fishing.

I can’t wait for the hot dogs, I’m hungry now.

Not everyone wants their picture taken.

Nice!

They look like fishermen!

We’re ready.

What a smile!

A little one!

Life is good.

Dad’s teaching their daughters to fish is special!

A budding “Lady Angler”

Lots of free stuff!

Ed Roberts of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife

The “Roberts” sisters (Photo courtesy of Ed Roberts)

Mary Patyten of the California Department of Fish and Wiildlife

A nice crowd.

The pier

Grant Rodin of the Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria.

Just a boy and his dog!

An Orioles fan!

Dad and son!

Group effort.

I like that flag!

When things got a little slow a few of the youngsters decided to check out the local family of otters. River otters I’ve been told even though these favor the salty Trinidad Harbor.

Back to fishing.

What a pretty day!

The fish don’t always bite.

She’s got her own rod and reel.

Waiting for a bite!

Maybe the dog is waiting for the hot dogs to be finished?

Buds!

No fish!

A crowded pier!

Under the pier!

What a gorgeous day!

Prisoner Rock — a name acquired during the “Gold Rush” when unruly prisoners, often drunks, would be left on the rock overnight to contemplate their misdeeds

Looking up at the Trinidad Head Lighthouse from the pier.

Each age group had a winner with each winner receiving a trophy, a beautiful certificate from the International Game Fish Association (IGFA), and an autographed copy of Pier Fishing in California by Ken Jones

Age group winners: 3-5-year-old winner—Malaki Costa (Trinidad); 6-year-old winner—Sonny Hopper (McKinleyville); 7-year-old winner—Dylan Collart (McKinleyville); 8-year-old winner—Jasiah Wheeler (Trinidad): 9-year-old winner—Jocelyn Sundberg (McKinleyville); 10-year-old winner— Emma Sobehrad (McKinleyville); 11-year-old winner—Gabriella Davidson (Trinidad): 12-year-old winner—Andrew Leverett (Eureka); 13-year-old winner—Devon Rodriguez (Trinidad); 14-year-old winner—Alaura Romo (Eureka); 15-year-old winner—Cameron Romo (Eureka). Four of the winners were repeat winners—Malachi Costa who won in 2014, Sonny Hopper Jocelyn Sundberg and Alaura Romo who won or tied their age group divisions in 2015.

The 3-5-year-old winner—Malaki Costa (Trinidad) and KJ (Photo by Carrie Wilson)

The 6-year-old winner—Sonny Hopper (McKinleyville) and KJ (Photo by Carrie Wilson)

The 7-year-old winner—Dylan Collart (McKinleyville) and KJ (Photo by Carrie Wilson)

The 8-year-old winner—Jasiah Wheeler (Trinidad) and KJ (Photo by Carrie Wilson)

The 9-year-old winner—Jocelyn Sundberg (McKinleyville)  and Kj (Photo by Carrie Wilson)

The 10-year-old winner— Emma Sobehrad (McKinleyville) and KJ (Photo by Carrie Wilson)

The 11-year-old winner—Gabriella Davidson (Trinidad) and KJ (Photo by Carrie Wilson)

The 13-year-old winner—Devon Rodriguez (Trinidad) and KJ (Photo by Carrie Wilson)

The 14-year-old winner—Alaura Romo (Eureka) and Kj (Photo by Carrie Wilson)

The 15-year-old winner—Cameron Romo (Eureka) and KJ

Donating money, food and gifts for the meals, insurance and prizes was a variety of different groups and businesses—Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria, Humboldt Area Saltwater Anglers (HASA), Pacific Outfitters, United Pier and Shore Anglers of California (UPSAC), Ken Jones—Pier Fishing in California (pierfishing.com), and Ed Roberts. A custom built rod made by Dan Troxel of BassMan Dan’s Custom Fishing Rods was raffled off with proceeds going to pay next year’s insurance costs.

The last events were the raffles  of which there were two. The first was the raffle for the custom built rod made by Dan Troxel of BassMan Dan’s Custom Fishing Rods.

Dan Troxel of BassMan Dan’s Custom Fishing Rods and the lucky winner of his rod.

Last but not least was a plethora of raffle prizes for the youngsters. There were not enough gifts for every youngster to receive a prize but the majority received prizes.

Prizes donated by the Humboldt Area Saltwater Anglers (HASA) — Photo courtesy of Ed Roberts

Organizers of the derby were Ed Roberts of the California Fish and Wildlife Department, Ken Jones of United Pier and Shore Anglers of California (UPSAC) and pierfishing.com, and Grant Roden of the Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria.

Ed Roberts (California Department of Fish and Wildlife) and Ken Jones (United Pier and Shore Anglers (UPSAC) and Pier Fishing In California (pierfishing.com)

Grant Roden of the Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria and Ken Jones (United Pier and Shore Anglers (UPSAC) and Pier Fishing In California (pierfishing.com)

Members of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife

A big thanks to the various members of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife who attended the event, helped out (in many ways) and served as educators to a  future legion of anglers. Attending were: Mary Patyten, Carrie Wilson, Dan Troxel, Dustin Hixon, Matt Wells, Dave Walker, Rob Mengel and, of course, Ed Roberts.

The day was over, the crowd dispersed, and the pier now empty of anglers. A trip back up the hill, a short stop at the lighthouse to bid adieu for another year, and goodby to Trinidad, one of God’s little gifts to us all.

The Trinidad Head Lighthouse offers a great view!

The Trinidad Pier in the afternoon sun

So long for now!

The north woods and coastline — a world class view!

All photos by KJ (Ken Jones) unless otherwise noted.

The Marin Rod and Gun Club, started in 1926, celebrated its 90th birthday this year and is one of California’s oldest and, in my opinion, best clubs in the state.

Although a long-time club event, UPSAC (United Pier and Shore Anglers of California), the IGFA (International Game Fish Association), and PFIC (Pier Fishing In California) co-sponsored and provided part of the people and the gifts for the youngsters.

Rita Magdamo, a club member as well as an UPSAC and PFIC member, gets the UPSAC loaner rods ready for the youngsters.

An early morn on the bay and in the sky
Rita Magdamo and Robert Gardner, Vice-President of UPSAC

Loaner rods and reels were available as well as free bait and assistance when needed.

Kyle Pease and Alex Poone of Pier Fishing In California

Combined with the fishing was a free hot dog lunch and a raffle where every participant received a rod and reel from the club.

Club members setting up the tables and putting finishing touches on the rods and reels for the raffle.

A fairly empty pier awaiting the crowd.

Here’s the bait. All you need is some bait and a pole to catch a fish — right?

Once you got your bait you grabbed a loaner pole and then headed out to that secret “top spot” on the pier where the big ‘uns are caught.

The derby started at 10 A.M. and shortly thereafter the pier began to fill with youngsters and their families.

One of the many families.

A jacksmelt, one of many.

Leopard Shark

A total of 82 fish were caught including 6 California halibut, 2 striped bass, 4 leopard sharks, 2 brown smoothhound sharks (aka sand sharks), 7 bat rays (aka mud marlin), and 61 jacksmelt.

The San Rafael-Richmond Bridge is always an interesting sight.

The Kosla family

Bat Ray

Leopard Shark — Hans Jones Jr.

Largest fish of each species: California halibut: 14” by Liam Connell; striped bass: 16” by Theo Pontes; leopard shark: 22” by Tulan White; brown smoothhound shark: 18” by Hans Jones Jr.; bat ray: 32” by Jake Barnes; jacksmelt: 16 1/2” by Tyler Hemnings.

Striped Bass — Mikayla Melero (Photo courtesy of Lisa Lue)

 California Halibut — Mikayla Melero (Photo courtesy of Lisa Lue)

Jacksmelt

Jacksmelt — Audrey Kosla (Photo courtesy of Nick Kosla)

Grace and Mikayla

Sharing a shark!

Halibut — Michele NG (Photo courtesy of Herman Ng)

Bat Ray — Jake Barnes (Photo courtesy of Brent Barnes)

Jacksmelt — Audrey and Grace Kosla  (Photo courtesy of Nick Kosla)

Interesting sight looking at the bridge and the East Bay hills.

Rita Magdamo and Robert Gardner by the UPSAC sign.

Next up would be the hot dog lunch followed by announcement of the age-group winners and the raffle

Each individual age group winner received a 1^st Place trophy for their catch, a beautiful IGFA certificate, and an autographed copy of Pier Fishing in California by Ken Jones. UPSAC President Ken Jones and Dr. John Evans handed out the goodies.

Age group winner: 5-year-old and under — Lena Klyashchitsky

Age group winner: 6-year-old — Grace Kosla

Age group winner: 7-year-old — Jake Barnes

Age group winner: 8-year-old — Kody Monteiro

Age group winner: 9-year-old — Mikayla Melero

Age group winner: 10-year-old — Tulan White

Age group winner: 11-year-old — Tyler Hemnings

Age group winner: 12-year-old — Dylan Monteiro

Age group winner: 13-year-old —Joshua Klyaschitsky

Age group winner: 14-year-old — Pato Harris

Age group winner: 15-year old — Hans Jones Jr.

 Gary Colmere — Chairman of the 2016 “Kids Day In The Pier”

Joe Morrison, President of the Marin Rod and Gun Club, Ken Jones and Dr. John Evans to the right

Next up was the raffle. Each participant received a raffle ticket and as the numbers were called they would go to the front and pick out a rod and reel.

Representing the Marin Rod and Gun Club: Chairmen Gary Colmere, President Joe Morrison, and more than 20 other club members who performed a plethora of duties—serving as judges on the pier, cleaning and fixing rods and reels for both the derby and the raffle, cooking the hot dog lunch, setting up and cleaning the auditorium and kitchen, helping with the registration, helping announce the results of the raffle, and a hundred and one other things never even noticed.

Representing UPSAC: President Ken Jones, Vice-President Robert Gardner, Board Member Hans Jones and member Rita Magdamo. Representing the Pier Fishing in California (PFIC) website was Kyle Pease and Alex Poon.

All pictures by Ken Jones unless otherwise noted.

A huge thank you goes to the Marin Gun and Rod Club and the various other organizations and volunteers for putting on this great annual event.

]]> http://kenjonesfishing.com/2016/08/marin-rod-gun-club-%e2%80%94-28th-annual-kids-day-on-the-pier/feed/ 0 http://kenjonesfishing.com/2015/10/trinidad-pier-%e2%80%94-2015-kids-fishing-derby/ http://kenjonesfishing.com/2015/10/trinidad-pier-%e2%80%94-2015-kids-fishing-derby/#comments Thu, 08 Oct 2015 22:39:58 +0000 kenjones http://kenjonesfishing.com/?p=9792 The Trinidad Pier aka Seascape Pier

On Saturday, October 3, 2015, the wind at Trinidad was blowing at a 30-40 mile per hour clip with gusts hitting 50-60 mph. On the beach, visitors were greeted with gusts of sand and “watch your hat” conditions. The main question was would the wind continue AND would we be able to have the scheduled kids fishing derby Sunday morning? There really wasn’t much of a “Plan B” so fingers were crossed and perhaps a few prayers were said along the way. The question was answered early the next morning when arrival at the pier saw little if any wind and a beautiful sky. As it turned out it would be mostly shirtsleeve weather and just about perfect conditions for the 56 kids and the crowd of roughly 125 people who attended the derby.

The pier before the derby

The event was the 2nd Annual Trinidad Pier Youth Fishing Derby sponsored by United Pier and Shore Anglers of California (UPSAC), the Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria, the International Game Fish Association (IGFA), and Ed Roberts from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife in Eureka.

The front of the pier is sided by a cliff and rocky shoreline on one side and two large rocks on the other side.

Free loaner rods and reels, free terminal tackle, free bait, free hot dog lunches, raffle prizes, and a winner in each age group helped generate excitement, as did the opportunity to catch a fish (although the fishing was a little slow).  As at the inaugural tournament in 2014, a large group of parents and friends also attended making the event a true family event.

Ready for registration

Checking out the registration table — Picture courtesy of Ed Roberts

Each age group had a winner with each winner receiving a trophy from United Pier and Shore Anglers of California (UPSAC), a beautiful certificate from the International Game Fish Association (IGFA), and an autographed copy of Pier Fishing in California by Ken Jones.

Age group winners: 3-5-year-old winner—(tie) Sunny Hopper (McKinleyville) and Thomas White (Trinidad); 6-year-old winner—Bryce Gruetzmacher (McKinleyville); 7-year-old winner—(tie) Nolan Sefcik (McKinleyville) and Dean Savieo (Trinidad); 8-year-old winner—Jocelyn Sundberg (McKinleyville); 9-year-old winner—Ryenne Kile (Eureka); 10-year-old winner—Caden Vance (Eureka); 11-year-old winner—Julian Sundberg (McKinleyville); 12-year-old winner—Nate Ferguson (Trinidad); 13-year-old winner—Alaura Romo (Eureka); 14-year-old winner—Cory Soll (Trinidad); 16-year-old winner—Callie Roberts (Loleta).

The Pier

The pier was quickly crowded

United Pier and Shore Anglers of California was one of the main sponsors

Humboldt Area Saltwater Anglers donated money to buy many of the raffle prizes

As usual, it takes many people to put on an event of this size. Helping out at the derby were Kevin Butler from the Trinidad Rancheria,  “Big Rich” McIntosh from Pier Fishing In California (pierfishing.com), Scott McBain and Casey Allen from the Humboldt Area Saltwater Anglers (HASA),  John “Grondo” Grondalski from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Natural Resource Volunteer Program (NRVP), Dan Troxel from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and Vanessa Jenkins.

Mary Patyten from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife office in Fort Bragg distributed information to the kids while Ed Roberts from the Eureka office was one of the main sponsors

There were a lot of smiles on the pier

This youngster was happy with his small greenling

The Thiesfeld family

A small greenling — Picture courtesy of Ed Roberts

Aston Husted and Russ Janak

Molly Roberts

Lucas Janak

Dan Troxel of the CDFW holding up a small rock greenling — Picture courtesy of Ed Roberts

The McTigues

Wardens Chase (left) and Alfaro (right) from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife provided information and “Junior Warden” stickers to the youngsters

The Romo Family

“Grondo” Grondalski of the CDFW NRVP and a young angler holding up buffalo sculpin — Picture courtesy of “Grondo” Grondalski

Warden Alfaro from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife

A young angler with a striped seaperch — Picture courtesy of “Grondo” Grondalski

Callie and Molly Roberts

Laysha and Callie Roberts

A small greenling — Picture courtesy of Casey Allen of the Humboldt Salt Water Anglers

Another greenling — Picture courtesy of Casey Allen of Humboldt Salt Water Anglers)

A baby cabezon —Picture courtesy of Casey Allen of Humboldt Salt Water Anglers)

It was a nice crowd

“Big Rich” from the Pier Fishing In California Message Board drove all the way up from Vallejo to help out at the derby (with Mary Patyten)

Callie and Laysha Roberts

Fishing lasted from 10:30 until 12:30 at which time the kids were presented a hot dog lunch.

Ed Roberts cooking the hot dogs — Picture courtesy of Patricia Ornelas

Following lunch, the raffle was held with each participant receiving a gift. Raffle prizes were donated by a number of different groups and businesses—Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria, Humboldt Area Saltwater Anglers (HASA), Pacific Outfitters, Mad River Tackle, Costco of Eureka, and Pier Fishing in California (pierfishing.com)

Ed Roberts — “How many are ready for the raffle?”

The number is…

The perfect prize!

This youngster won a “First Edition” of Pier Fishing In California but might be too young to read it

You can never have too many tackle boxes — right?

Each youngster also received a “Goody Bag” of gifts. Items were donated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria, the San Diego Sportfishing Council, and United Pier and Shore Anglers of California (UPSAC).

Age Group Winners

KJ and an Age Group Winner — Picture courtesy of Ed Roberts

KJ and an Age Group Winner — Picture courtesy of Ed Roberts

KJ and an Age Group Winner — Picture courtesy of Ed Roberts

KJ and 12-Year-Old Age Group Winner Nate Ferguson — Picture courtesy of Ed Roberts

KJ and 16-Year-Old Age Group Winner Callie Roberts — Picture courtesy of Ed Roberts

Ed Roberts, Ken Jones (KJ) and Mary Patyten

Organizers for the event were Ed Roberts of the California Fish and Wildlife Department, Ken Jones, President of United Pier and Shore Anglers of California, and Grant Roden of the Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria.

An IGFA certificate for Ed Roberts — Picture courtesy of Ed Roberts

IGFA certificates for Grant Roden and the Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria — Picture courtesy of Ed Roberts

An IGFA certificate for Mary Patyten — Picture courtesy of Ed Roberts

Later that day, after the kids and their families had returned to their homes, and the tables, BBQ, boxes, and supplies had been put away, the pier returned to its normal, more quiet nature. Tourists and locals wanting one final walk out onto the pier would be greeted by a pretty sunset and one of the most beautiful vistas confronting any visitor to a California pier.

All non-attributed pictures by Ken Jones

]]> http://kenjonesfishing.com/2015/10/trinidad-pier-%e2%80%94-2015-kids-fishing-derby/feed/ 0 http://kenjonesfishing.com/2015/08/trinidad-pier-%e2%80%94-2014-kids-fishing-derby/ http://kenjonesfishing.com/2015/08/trinidad-pier-%e2%80%94-2014-kids-fishing-derby/#comments Tue, 25 Aug 2015 18:10:33 +0000 kenjones http://kenjonesfishing.com/?p=9369 The 2014 Trinidad Pier Youth Fishing Tournament was held on September 13 at the Trinidad Pier aka the Seascape Pier in Trinidad, California. The derby was sponsored by UPSAC (United Pier and Shore Anglers of California, IGFA (International Game Fish Association), and the Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria dba Seascape Pier.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife set up a booth where they distributed various materials and discussed their “Fishing Passport” program. Left to right: Carrie Wiilson, Ed Roberts and Mary Patyten.

All participants received free loaner tackle, free bait, a free hot dog lunch (cooked up by Ed Roberts), free goody bags containing several items, and raffle tickets to win prizes.

A small cabezon

A cabezon

Another cabezon

A rock greenling

A Pacific mackerel

A white seaperch

A baby rockfish

Following the fishing, and the hot dog lunch, it was time for the announcement of the age group winners. All age group winners received a trophy from UPSAC, a beautiful IGFA certificate, and a copy of Pier Fishing in California by Ken Jones.

Individual age group winners were: 6-year olds and under—Malachi Costa; 7-year olds—Sammy Luna; 8-year olds—Yelena Gulbransen; 9-year olds—Elijah Gulbransen; 10-year olds—Nate Ferguson; 11-year olds—Anthony Eggink; 12-year olds—Levi Robbins; 13-year olds—Charles Evans; 15-year olds—Kaden Lindquist.

UPSAC President Ken Jones announced the winners

6-Year-Olds and Under Winner Malachi Costa

7-Year-Old Winner Sammy Luna

8-Year-Old Winner Yelena Gulbransen

9-Year-Old Winner Elijah Gulbransen

10-year-Old Winner Nate Ferguson

11-Year-Old Winner Anthony Eggink

12-Year-Old Winner Levi Robbins

13-Year-Old Winner Charles Evans

15-Year-Old Winner Kaden Lindquist

Certificates were also awarded to several people who helped set up the derby

UPSAC President Ken Jones gives thanks to Ed Roberts of the California Fish and Wildlife Department and the man whose vision helped establish the Trinidad Derby

UPSAC President Ken Jones offers a big thanks to Leslie Sanders who represented and was the main contact with the Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria  that owns and manages the pier. She also donated a plethora of raffle gifts from her shop at the foot of the pier.

Last but not least was the raffle contest that is always a highlight for the youngsters at the derbies. The Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Ed Roberts, Carrie Wilson and Mary Patyten handed out the gifts.

Planning and organization was carried out by Ken Jones and Ed Roberts while work during the day the of the event was done by Ed Roberts, Carrie Wilson, Mary Patyten and Ken Jones.

Ed Roberts, Mary Patyten, Carrie Wilson and Ken Jones

The derby was sponsored by United Pier and Shore Anglers of California (UPSAC) and the International Game Fish Association (IGFA)

You have to watch what you eat when you catch fish in the bay 

Hans Jones Jr. and Mack Jones

Sometimes when the fishing is slow you just sort of hang out — Danika and Brianna

Josh and Ramn

Tenzin and his dad

Kimberly

Josh, open your eyes

Juliana and her family

Kim and Samantha checking out something

Danika and Brianna and a little help with the cast

Hans Jones cooking up some mean hot dogs

Just shake hands with the rod

I think I understand

Following the fishing everyone, youngster and parent enjoyed some hot dogs, chips and soft drinks, That was followed by the raffle which was followed by the awarding of the age group certificates and trophies. The winners were: Juliana Li, Tenzin Kunsel, Danika Dougherty, Brianna Cooke, Kimberly Bierman, Ramn Namauleg, Josh Goldston, Samantha Biermann, Hans Jones Jr. and Mack Jones.

Juliana Li

Danika Dougherty and Brianna Cooke

Josh Goldston and Ramn Namauleg

Kimberly Biermann

Samantha Biermann

Mack Jones and Hans Jones Jr.

“The Winners”

Although it was sad to see the day end, all good things must indeed come to an end. Hosting the event, and doing the work, were UPSAC members Ken Jones, Robert Gardner and Hans Jones.

]]> http://kenjonesfishing.com/2015/08/berkeley-poier-%e2%80%94-2014-kids-fishing-derby/feed/ 0 http://kenjonesfishing.com/2015/08/avila-pier-%e2%80%94-2013-kids-fishing-tournament/ http://kenjonesfishing.com/2015/08/avila-pier-%e2%80%94-2013-kids-fishing-tournament/#comments Sun, 23 Aug 2015 06:05:18 +0000 kenjones http://kenjonesfishing.com/?p=9066 Beautiful weather and hungry fish helped make the 2013 Avila Pier Youth Fishing Tournament a resounding success. Sponsored by the United Pier and Shore Anglers of California (UPSAC) and the International Game Fish Association (IGFA), the tournament was held at the Avila Pier on September 14, 2013. Although competing against opening soccer days for many areas, the tournament still drew 36 young anglers and a crowd of over 100 people.

Avila Pier in the foreground, the Cal Poly research pier in the middle, and the Port San Luis Pier in the distance

Mary Patyten from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife distributed literature and signed up youngsters for the department’s “Fishing Passport Program”

The derby was held at the end of the Avila Pier

Free loaner rods and reels, free bait, free hot dog lunches, raffle prizes for every kid, and a winner for each age group helped keep the derby interesting. Perhaps as important was the catch of many fish,  even if most were small  lizardfish. Fish, no matter the size, seemed to keep the youngsters excited and hungry for more. The 36 youngsters caught 261 lizardfish, 19 white croaker and 7 speckled sanddab; nothing big but fun nevertheless, especially since many had never caught a fish before in their life.

The Avila Pier sits in a beautiful setting!

The first fish caught was a white croaker

There was a steady catch of lizardfish

A small speckled sanddab joined in the fun

Yep, it’s a lizardfish

After the fishing concluded, lunch was served followed by the raffle in which every youngster received a gift.

Get your tickets out and listen for the numbers

Raffle prizes were donated by UPSAC, IGFA, NOAA, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Fish Taco Chronicle Magazine, and Jim Kelsey owner of Zippy’s At The Pier (the bait shop on Avila Pier). The grand prize, two half-day fishing trips, was donated by Patriot Sportfishing of Port San Luis. Special thanks go to Linnette Ganster and the Port San Luis Harbor District for use of the Avila Pier.

The last event was the announcement of the age group winners. Age group winners: 6-year-old Julia Terry; 7-year-old Michael Beareden; 8-year-old Cassandra Eroh; 9-year-old Luke Zhao; 10-year-old James Dwer; 11-year-old Larry Zhao; 12-year-old Mason Marini; 13-year-old Emily Wamhof; and 14-year-old Lee Andra Garcia. All winners received trophies from UPSAC, beautiful certificates from the IGFA, and autographed copies of Pier Fishing in California by Ken Jones.

6-Year-Old Winner Julia Terry and UPSAC President Ken Jones

7-Year-Old Winner Michael Beareden

8-Year-Old Winner Cassandra Eroh

9-Year-Old Winner Luke Zhao

10-Year-Old Winner James Dwer

11-Year-Old Winner Larry Zhao

12-Year-Old Winner Mason Marini

13-Year-Old Winner Emily Wamhof

14-Year-Old Winner Lee Andra Garcia

The event Coordinator was Michael Spence from UPSAC ably assisted by his lovely wife Cheryl. They were joined by Ken Jones, President of UPSAC, Robert Gardner, Vice President of UPSAC, and Brian Linebarger, Secretary of UPSAC. Helpers included Pier Fishing in California members Burger (from Malibu), Sylvania, and Preston Davis (East Bay) as well as a number of people from Santa Maria. Representing California Fish and Wildlife was Mary Peyton who manned a booth and signed up kids for the California Fishing Passport Program.  Representing Zippy’s At The Pier was Jim Kelsey.

A certificate was given to Jim Kelsey from Zippy’s At The Pier (on the Avila Pier)

Cheryl Spence, Robert Gardner and Preston Davis take a break before the final clean-up begins.

Registration

Amanda Liu checking in the youngsters

Loaner rods and reels

James Liu showing how to use the reel

The venue was the Berkeley Pier, the iconic 3,000 foot-long pier that historically ranks as the first of more than 120 public piers in California. The bay was full of boats, the sky was full of clouds, San Francisco and Bay Area hills shined in the distance, and the fish (blackperch, walleye surfperch, jacksmelt, baby bat rays, baby smoothhound sharks, and bullheads), together with a few crabs, seemed to provide fun for the crowd of roughly 80 people.

Joining the UPSAC group that put on the derby was Carrie Wilson and Mary Patyten from the California Fish and Game Department. They handed out a variety of posters and books including the Fishing Passport Booklets. They then stamped the booklets as the kids caught a variety of species.

Several members of the California Fish and Game Department were on hand

The first fish of the day was a small perch

Thomas Orozco and a blackperch

This young lady caught a staghorn sculpin aka bullhead. Look at those dimples!

Elaine Liu — Elaine, that’s bait!

The pier was full of people

She’s got a rock crab

Mary Patyten from the Fish and Game Department offers information

Another crab

UPSAC Board Member Robert Gardner helping to clear a line

Mary Patyten of the Fish and Game

Robert Gardner showing a rigging

It turned into a beautiful day

Amanda Liu

Elaine Liu

The last fish of the day was this tiny, baby brown smoothhound shark

Following the fishing each youngster and parent was given a hot dog lunch. Immediately thereafter the raffle was held with a gift for every youngster.

UPSAC Board Member Brian Linebarger and an eager group of kids

Last but not least was the announcement of the various age group winners.

UPSAC President Ken Jones tabulating the results

The various 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd place winners were:  6-year-old: (1) Fiona Klyashchitsky, (2) Andrea Katz, (3) Penelope Hopper; 7-year old: (1) Leland Arashiro, (2) Misha Tikin, (3) James Mook; 8-year-old: (1) Kimmy Bierman, (2) Jacob Palacio; 10-year-old: (1) Samantha Bierman; 11-year-old: (1) Trinity Arashiro; 12-year-old: (1) Jordan Mook, (2) Hans Jones, (3) Brehana Head; 13-year-old: (1) Thomas Orozco, (2) Daniel Goltom, (3) Warren Liu; 15-year-old: (1) Brenden Linebarger; 16-year-old (1) Cassandra Ortiz. Named the “Top Angler” was Thomas Orozco.

3rd Place, 6-Year-Old, Penelope Hopper

2nd Place, 6-Year-Old — Andrea Katz

UPSAC’s James Liu gives the 1st Place Award for 6-Year-Olds, to Fiona Klyashchitsky

3rd Place, 7-Year-Old, James Mook

2nd Place, 7-Year-Old, Misha Tikin

UPSAC’s James Liu and the 1st Place Winner, Age 7, Leland Arashiro

2nd Place Winner, 8-Year-Old, Jacob Palacio

Age 9,

1st Place, 10-Year-Old, Samantha Bierman

1st Place, 11-Year-Old, Trinity Arashiro

2nd Place, 12-Year-Old, Hans Jones

1st Place, 12-Year-Old, Jordan Mook

3rd Place, 13-Year-Old, Warren Liu

UPSAC’s James Liu and 1st Place winner, 13-Year-Old, Thomas Orozco

1st Place, 16-Year-Old, Cassandra Ortiz

UPSAC President Ken Jones and Thomas Orozco, winner of the “Top Angler” Award

The primary UPSAC volunteers were Ken Jones, Brian Linebarger, James Liu, Robert Gardner, and Hans Jones.

Registration was organized and handled efficiently by Pam Gonsalves and her team of helpers

Several pelicans make the pier their home

Free loaner rods and reels, free bait, free hot dog lunches, raffle prizes, and free “goody bag” for every youngster helped make it a fun morning. Age group winners in each category (ages 6-15) won trophies from UPSAC, a beautiful IGFA certificate, and an autographed copy of Pier Fishing in California by Ken Jones.

UPSAC President Ken Jones giving  derby instructions

Cutting bait

Of course the chance to catch a fish was the prime motivation for the day and in many cases that meant a first fish. Fish that were caught included spotfin and yellowfin croaker, barred surfperch, walleye surfperch, Pacific mackerel, sand bass, Pacific sardine, jacksmelt, shovelnose guitarfish, thornback ray, round stingray, and a bat ray. Most kids caught “something” and all had a great time.

The kids were ready to catch some fish!

A nice spotfin croakerThe California Fish and Game Department distributed literature and helped the youngsters fill out their “Passport” booklets

A spotfin croaker

Pelicans always attract a crowd

UPSAC’s Brian Linebarger helps out a youngster

Oceanside Pier Bait Shop

At the end of the fishing each youngster and parent was given a hot dog lunch and Immediately after that each participant was given a “Goody Bag” full of prizes.

Next up was the raffle gifts with each youngster winning a gift. Gifts were donated from a large group: Oceanside Pier Bait and Tackle; Pacific Bait and Tackle, Oceanside; Anglers Bait and Tackle, Oceanside; Pats Bait and Tackle, Vista; Nautical Bean Coffee, Oceanside Harbor; and J and M Bait Co. in San Marcos; Western Outdoor News.

The final event was the rewarding of the gifts to the age group winners and each age group, 6-15 had a winner. The individual age group winners were: 6-year-old, Brandon Ngo; 7-year-old, Isiah Sanchez; 8-year-old, Anthony Fowler; 9-year-old, Ben Marek; 10-year-old, Noah Silk; 11-year-old, Andreio Flores; 12-year-old, Nico Place; 13-year-old (tie), Franco Deporzi & Alfonso Paz; 14-year-old, Carlos Arango and 15-year-old, Froilan Tan.

UPSAC’s Ken Jones, NOAA’s Marty Golden, and the 6-Year-Old Winner — Brandon Ngo

7-Year-Old Winner Isiah Sanchez

8-Year-Old Winner Anthony Fowler

9-Year-Old Winner Ben Marek

10-Year-Old Winner Noah Silk

11-Year-Pld Winner Andreio Flores

12-Year-Old Winner Nico Place

13-Year-Old (tie), Franco Deporzi & Alfonso Paz 

14-Year-Old Winner Carlos Arango

15-Year-Old Winner, Froilan Tan

The “Top Angler” Award was won by Brandon Ngo

A large event like this takes considerable time and effort but luckily the good folks at the Oceanside Pier Bait and Tackle (Pam and Ed Gonsalves) were up to the challenge and they derserve a BIG THANKS!

Volunteers: From UPSAC—President, Ken Jones, Vice-President, Robert Gardner, Secretary, Brian Linebarger, and member, Richard (Big Rich) McIntosh; From IGFA—Gary Graham; From the California Department of Fish and Game—Carrie Wilson and a group of other volunteers; NOAA—Marty Golden; Oceanside Pier Bait and Tackle—Owners Ed and Pam Gonsalves along with Johnny Arrage, Rebecca Dutkiewiez, Ronnie Newland, Joy Koepke, Stephen Sandberg, Sarah Cousins, Richard Vodlak, Joe Darden, Wayne Kotow, Chris Monsale, Bradley Hicks, Johathan Kotow, and Mark Neenan; Senior Anglers of Oceanside—Bill and Manuel.

UPSAC President Ken Jones, NOAA Pacific Recreational Fisheries Coordinator Marty Golden, and UPSAC Board Member Eugene Kim with his daughter Mia

Carrie Wilson (CA DF&G), Marty Golden (NOAA) and volunteers

And we bid adieu to a beautiful pier, the Oceanside Pier!

The entrance to the Marin Rod & Gun Club Pier

As at previous contests, each angler was assured a lunch, a goody bag of gifts, a chance to win a raffle prize, and a chance at the trio of gifts won by each age group winner (a trophy, a beautiful IGFA certificate, and a signed copy of Pier Fishing in California by Ken Jones). When combined with a beautiful setting, sunny weather, free loaner rods and reels, and free bait, there really was no way to lose.

Lillie Dana handled registration

A California Department of Fish and Game booth was manned by Mary Patyten and Carrie Wilson.

The Fish and Game booth was a popular stop on the way out to the fishing

Her first jacksmelt

The catch of the jacksmelt is recorded in the “Passport”

This young man’s catch of a leopard shark elicited quite a bit of attention

Once the fishing ended every child and parent was given a hot dog lunch. Following lunch, was the raffle. Mary Patyten and Carrie Wilson from the Fish and Game Department were asked to hand out the gifts.

UPSAC’s Ken Jones announcing the start of the raffle

The final event was the announcement and distribution of gifts for the age group winners.

Congratulating the first winner

Age group winners: 5-year old Aika Thompson; 6-year-old Gilbert Mei; 7-year old Kimmy Bierman; 8-year old Luke Zhao; 9-year old Megan Ma; 10-year old (tie) Caspar Kazinski and Larry Zhao; 12-year old Thomas Orozco and 16-year old Daniel Gross. The award for largest fish went to Lucas Perry.

5-Year-Old Winner Aika Thompson

6-Year-Old Winner Gilbert Mei

7-Year-Old Winner Kimmy Bierman

8-Year-Old Winner Luke Zhao

9-Year-Old Winner Megan Ma

10-Year-Old Winner (tie) Caspar Kazinski

10-Year-Old Winner (tie) Larry Zhao

12-Year-Old Winner Thomas Orozco

16-Year-Old Winner Daniel Gross

The award for largest fish went to Lucas Perry

Putting on the event were Ken Jones, President of UPSAC, Robert Gardner, Vice President of UPSAC, Brian Linebarger, Secretary of UPSAC, Hans Jones, Board Member of UPSAC, Lillie Dana, Rob Gross and Alex Poon. Joining the UPSAC crew were Carrie Wilson and Mary Patyten from the California Fish and Game who manned a booth and signed up kids to the California Fishing Passport Program. A big thank you goes to Pat Lamos, Donny, and the entire crew at the Marin Gun and Rod Club for their help and assistance in the event.

The UPSAC crew — Lillie Dana, Hans Jones, Brian Linebarger, Robert Gardner and Alex Poon

UPSAC’s Ken Jones

Mary Patyten and Carrie Wilson from the California Department of Fish and Game

Robert Gardner, Vice President of UPSAC, Brian Linebarger, Secretary of UPSAC, Hans Jones, Board Member of UPSAC, Lillie Dana, and Rob Gross. Joining the UPSAC crew were Carrie Wilson and Mary Patyten from the California Fish and Game who manned a booth and signed up kids to the California Fishing Passport Program. A big thank you goes to Pat Lamos, Donny, and the entire crew at the Marin Gun and Rod Club for