Samway Fishing Derby, Casting Contest this weekend

McCOOK, Neb. -- The McCook Optimist Club is sponsoring the Larry Samway Memorial Fishing Derby and Casting Contest, Father’s Day Weekend, June 19-20 at Hugh Butler Lake, 10 miles north of McCook. Contestants will compete for cash and prizes while sharpening their fishing skills.

This will be the 44th year of the event. Originally organized by McCook Optimist founding member Larry Samway in the 1970s, the event is a great way for youth and their families to get outside and have a great time.

According to Darrin Samway, Larry’s son and longtime McCook Optimist member, “Our numbers were down a little last year, but we are expecting a great turn out this year. Fishing, Casting Contest, and Camping — I can’t think of anything better to do over Father’s Day Weekend! The lake is looking great with new fishing improvements and nice water levels,” he said.

“It doesn’t matter if you are a Catfish, Walleye, Bass or Crappie fisherman, we have prizes for the biggest fish in all species. New this year, the Kids get points for all legal fish.”

The Fishing Derby starts Saturday morning at 7 and lasts till noon on Sunday. The Casting Contest will begin at 1 Saturday afternoon. Registration is required before fishing and starts Friday evening at 6 at the North Boat Dock, or anytime during the derby.

Cost for the event is $15 per family, $10 per Adult (includes one child), and $2 per Child ages 15 & under. Adult and children divisions, with prizes for the largest fish, caught for each species.

McCook Optimist Club prides itself as a “Friend of Youth” and encourages all to keep kids active and involved in all the activities around the McCook area.