County Executive Kevin Byrne and Rob Kearns of Carmel Town Board to host event on Sept. 6 at Veterans Memorial Park

CARMEL, NY – Today County Executive Kevin Byrne announced that Putnam County will co-sponsor a family-friendly, free event as part of its “I Fish Putnam” program on Saturday, September 6 at the lower park of Veterans Memorial Park. The well-attended fishing derby and clinic will feature outdoor enthusiasts and youth anglers aged 5 to 15 fishing for native and stocked species at the park’s lake. Note: reservations for the free event are currently full.

The derby is scheduled to run from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and feature prizes and commendations across a variety of categories. Rods, tackle, and tackle boxes will be provided to the first 50 participants. The joint event follows another “I Fish Putnam” youth outing on May 31 on Lake Gleneida organized by Oasis Sportsmen’s Club and the Putnam County Federation of Sporting Clubs, Inc.— and outside agency that receives county funding to assist in stocking fish and pheasants as well as support conservation-related programs for adults and children alike.

Byrne successfully rolled out “I Fish Putnam” at the Lake Gleneida event. Putnam County has also partnered with member libraries in the Mid-Hudson Library System and the state Department of Environmental Conservation to loan fishing rods and other gear free of charge to residents. More information about the loan program, including participating libraries, is available here.

“I’m proud to join my friend Councilman Rob Kearns in co-sponsoring this youth-focused fishing event!” said Byrne. “As a young parent who enjoys fishing with my young son, I appreciate firsthand the value of getting kids involved early in fishing and outdoor recreation. Putnam County is blessed with beautiful lakes, streams, and brooks and our natural abundance is promoted and amplified by key visitor and tourism programs such as ‘I Fish Putnam.’ This is another great opportunity to experience one of our county parks, earn prizes, and inspire local youngsters to take up fishing as a lifelong passion. Tight lines, everyone!”  

“As the saying goes, ‘A good catch always makes a good outing.’ Our event will provide young people of all skill levels with an opportunity to enjoy some great fishing in the great outdoors. I am grateful to my friend County Executive Kevin Byrne for his continued support of these valuable recreational programs that teach respect for our natural world and provide kids with memories they’ll never forget,” said Councilman Kearns.