Second Annual Squam Lakes Fishing Derby open to all ages

The Squam Lakes Association (SLA) is hosting the second annual "Squam Rules Fishing Derby" from Saturday, June 26 to Saturday, July 10. This two-week "catch and release" fishing derby is split into two categories: age 13 and under, and age 14 and over. Each angler must have a New Hampshire fishing license.

Participants will be given a form listing 19 species of fish commonly found in the Squam Lakes watershed. Each angler will record the species and location of each fish caught. The Squam Rules Fishing Derby is based on the honor system with all fish caught within the two-week derby period. Forms must be submitted to the SLA by Sunday, July 11 at 3:00 p.m., followed by a brief reception for the participants. The anglers will be competing for keepsake prizes such as caps and t -shirts.

"The derby is a great way for people, especially kids, to understand and appreciate what great species diversity we have in Squam," said Chris Devine, Executive Director of the SLA. "People are surprised to learn how many different fishes live in Squam, and how many different fish habitats you have to visit to catch them."

He went on to say that it's not the number or size of the fish that are caught and released that count in this fishing derby, but which anglers have the most variety. Fish that are commonly found in the Squam Lakes watershed are American or Rainbow smelt; Atlantic salmon (landlocked); Brown bullhead (horn pout); Burbot (cusk); Chain pickerel; Eastern brook trout; Fallfish (roach); Freshwater or slimy sculpin; Golden shiner; Lake trout; Lake whitefish; (shad); Largemouth bass; Pumpkinseed sunfish; Rainbow trout; Small mouth bass; White perch; White sucker; Yellow perch and Yellowbelly (redbreast) sunfish.

"Last year was the first-ever Squam Rules Fishing Derby and everyone had lots of fun; this year we're looking to expand participation," Devine concluded. Anglers can pick up a free catch-record form at the SLA Resource Center on Rte. 3 in Holderness; at one of the three Squam marinas, or at retail stores in Holderness. Forms can also be downloaded from the SLA website at www.squamlakes.org. Participants are encouraged to pick up free fish identification books at the SLA Resource Center. Once completed catch forms are turned in on July 10 the winners will be announced and event keepsakes awarded. For more information call the SLA at 968-7336, or visit the website.

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