News: 75th Annual Perry J. Spinelli Fishing Derby A Success
| Date Published |
Author |
| 4/30/2026 12:00:00 AM |
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75th Annual Perry J. Spinelli Fishing Derby A Success
Bristol, CT – [April 30, 2026] The 75th Annual Perry J. Spinelli Fishing Derby at Rockwell Park on April 25th was a huge success, with a large turnout of residents of all ages, bright sunshine, and plenty of fish! The City of Bristol Department of Parks, Recreation, Youth and Community Services (BPRYCS) hosted this year’s event at Rockwell Park Back Pond, continuing a spring tradition that has brought generations of Bristol families together for many years.
This milestone event welcomed more than 50 young anglers and their families for a morning filled with fishing, excitement, and community spirit. Participants competed in three fast-paced 10-minute derby rounds, with winners in each round winning gift certificates to local restaurants. Congratulations to the 10-minute derby winners:
- Jesse Sundberg, age 7
- Diarmuid Cush, age 6
- Faith Jimenez, age 8
“One of the highlights of the day was the biggest fish caught measuring at an impressive 14.75 inches. Angler Sage Ramirez, age 11, got to pick out a special prize for the biggest catch of the morning,” said Recreation Program Assistant, Madison Fostervold.
From first time fishers, to seasoned young anglers, participants enjoyed casting their lines, celebrating each catch, and creating lasting memories by the pond. The 75th Anniversary of the derby made the event even more meaningful, showcasing the lasting impact of this beloved tradition in the Bristol community.
The event is sponsored by the Bristol Police Union, Oakland LLC, Bristol Fish & Game Club, AFSCME Local 233, Local 1338, and the Bristol Professionals & Supervisors Association. “Thank you to our sponsors for their continued support and helping make another great year on the pond possible,” added Fostervold. “Their continued support helps keep the Perry J. Spinelli Fishing Derby free for all participants while also providing prizes, stocking the pond, and ensuring that every participant who caught their limit was able to go home with a prize of their own.”
For questions, please contact Madison Fostervold, Recreation Program Assistant, at madisonfostervold@bristolct.gov.