More than 50 youths take part in fishing event at Capaha Park

More than 50 children gathered at the pond in Capaha Park on Saturday to participate in the 17th annual Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation Youth Catch and Release Fishing Day.

Winner of the biggest fish was Allen Carver, who reeled in a 17 3/4-inch catfish that weighed 2 1/2 pounds. Hunter Hodgkiss landed the littlest fish, a 2 3/4-inch bluegill that weighed 1/10th of a pound. Each received a tackle box.

Megan Brock won the casting contest for ages 11 and up, while Zachary Brock won the under-11 division. Each received a Zebco rod and reel.

Even those who didn't land a winning fish enjoyed the event, which was co-sponsored by the Cape Jaycees.

"We've caught 14 fish," said Cape Girardeau resident Eric Schuchardt, whose sons Philip, Nathan, John Paul and Noah all participated in the event. "We couldn't have asked for a better day. We're catching fish and having a great time."