Fun had by all at the 12th annual Fish Fest

The 12th Annual Philly Fun Fishing Fest, held on Schuylkill Banks on Saturday, September 10, was one of the best yet, thanks to Philadelphia Water, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, PA Fish and Boat Commission, nearly 200 participants and many wonderful volunteers!

Seasoned anglers and first-timers alike gathered along the Banks, cast their lines and competed for prizes including Largest Fish, Smallest Fish and Most Fish Caught between 7am and 11am. An impressive 297 fish were caught (and released) this year, including channel catfish, striper, bluegill, white perch, American eel, flathead catfish, shad and rock bass. Prizes-- including deluxe tackle boxes and rods from Plano, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Bob’s Bait and Tackle-- were awarded to anglers of all ages and skill levels.

The volume and variety of fish caught this year speaks both to the skill of participants and the health of the river. Many walked away with a new appreciation of all the Schuylkill has to offer.