06/11/2026
Families, Friends, and First Fish: Izaak Walton League Hosts Successful 2026 Youth Fishing
Derby
STAFFORD, Va. — June 6, 2026
Laughter echoed across the ponds, fishing lines stretched across calm waters, and proud smiles filled the faces of children and parents alike as the Izaak Walton League of America’s Alexandria
Chapter hosted its annual Youth Fishing Derby on Saturday, June 6, at the organization's Stafford County property.
The free community event welcomed local families for a day of fishing, friendship, and outdoor fun. Young anglers of all skill levels had the opportunity to cast a line, learn new skills, and compete for
prizes awarded in several categories, including the coveted Biggest Fish award. Blessed with mild temperatures, sunshine, and ideal fishing conditions, the event drew a large crowd of families who spread out around the chapter's two fishing ponds. For many children, it was their first fishing experience, while others proudly showcased the skills they had developed over years of outdoor adventures.
The Youth Fishing Derby is just one example of the Izaak Walton League of America's long-standing commitment to conservation, outdoor recreation, and community engagement.
Founded in 1922, the Izaak Walton League is one of the nation's oldest and most influential conservation organizations, dedicated to conserving, restoring, and promoting the sustainable use
and enjoyment of America's natural resources. Through more than 200 local chapters nationwide, the League continues to connect people with the outdoors while promoting responsible stewardship
of the environment. Supporting the event were volunteers from Scouts BSA Troop 142, which is based at the Izaak
Walton League's Stafford property. Scouts assisted throughout the day by measuring fish, recording catches, helping participants, and ensuring the derby ran smoothly. Scoutmaster Ronan Moran emphasized the importance of events like these. "Events like this bring the local community together to spend the day relaxing and taking advantage of the nature and beauty that's all around us," Moran said.
For many families, the derby provided much more than a chance to catch fish. Local parent Kevin Armstrong, who attended with his sons Xavier and Kevin, reflected on what the
experience meant for his family. "It's our first time fishing ever. I have one son who caught his very first fish and the other one is
working on it," Armstrong said. "I think things like this are important. Had we not been here today, my sons would probably have been on electronics. Instead, they're learning how to survive off the land by learning how to fish. This is something that is good for them, and I'm thankful that the great people of Izaak Walton put on events like this."
The event also provided young volunteers an opportunity to give back to their community. Emmy H., a member of Troop 142, explained her role supporting the derby. "It's our job as scouts to support the event. We measure the fish when one of the kids catches one and record the fish's size. It really does feel good because people are having a good time and we're
a part of that."
Throughout the day, families gathered along the shorelines, sharing fishing tips, encouraging young anglers, and enjoying conversations with neighbors. New friendships were formed as parents and children connected with others they had never met before, despite living in the same community. Jordan Kuhn, a Stafford resident attending with her family, praised the event's impact on children. "The awesome thing about what Izaak Walton is doing today is exposing kids to fishing. My three-year-old is out there with a line in the water and, though he hasn't caught anything yet, it's just a great event to bring the family together."
Her husband, David Kuhn, echoed those sentiments. "With all of the technology that's available to kids today and the subsequent challenges in childhood development because of technology, it's just great to get the kids outside and spending time in
nature. This is an absolutely wonderful event, and I'm glad we came."
The Stafford property itself serves as a remarkable resource for the local community. Spanning approximately 250 acres, the Izaak Walton League's Alexandria Chapter offers members access to
fishing ponds, shooting ranges, hunting opportunities, camping areas, and extensive conservation land dedicated to outdoor recreation, education, and responsible stewardship of natural resources.
As the final prizes were awarded and families packed up their fishing gear, one thing was clear: the day was about far more than catching fish. It was about creating memories, introducing children to the outdoors, strengthening family bonds, and bringing neighbors together. For many of the children in attendance, June 6th will be remembered as the day they caught their
first fish. For many parents, it was a welcome reminder of the value of unplugging, slowing down, and spending quality time together in nature.
If this year's turnout and enthusiasm are any indication, the future of the Youth Fishing Derby looks bright. The Izaak Walton League hopes to welcome even more families next year for another day of
fishing, friendship, conservation, and community. Whether you're an experienced angler or have never held a fishing rod before, there's a place for you at the pond.
We'll see you next year.
Written by Joseph Martinez
Izaak Walton League Member
Izaak Walton League Shotgun Team Coach
