Cops and Kids reel in plenty of fish, and fun, in Bloomfield

Kaylem Powell, with dad Aaron, of Belleville, was thrilled to show PEC OPP officer Jason Chin Leung his first catch, first time fishing.

Participants caught some sunshine and lots of fish at this year’s Cops and Kids fishing event, Saturday, at the Bloomfield Mill Pond.

While sticks and strange catches are often the norm, this year, plenty of actual fish were reeled in by about 60 children registered. With each catch, they excitedly reported their bounty to Prince Edward OPP officers on the scene, who relayed the information to volunteers to record toward various trophies provided.

Barry Turpin, on behalf of the host Bloomfield Hallowell Recreation Committee, reports the angler of the day was Jacob Shephard catching the longest fish, a 24-inch Pike, and at least nine more. Lincoln Harvey was runner up for longest fish. Kaylem Powell was given a trophy as most fish caught (runner up).

The shortest fish caught was by Isla Nash and the most by Aleis Kellar. The strangest catch of the day was by Lennox Jenner (a fish eating a fish). Lauren Dulmage also received a trophy for catching a number of fish.

Bob Izumi, host of the Real Fishing television show, has been spokesperson for the Cops and Kids event since its inception in 2003. It has grown to include more than 70 fishing days in Ontario and across Canada with the support of the Police Association of Ontario, many local businesses and volunteers.

“There is nothing that puts a smile on a kid’s face faster than catching a fish,” he said. “Fishing is on of the very best ways for parents and other adults to establish productive and healthy relationships with children. This program is a perfect way for kids to learn that these dedicated men and women care about them as individuals, not as potential young offenders.”

Jacob Shephard had caught 10 fish by the time this photo was taken – including a two-foot pike. No special lures, he said, just the worms provided at the event and “learning from my Poppy” (Bill Shephard).

Caleb Turner, 4, of Picton proudly shows his second catch of the day.

PEC OPP Sgt Sean Guscott was in big demand at the shores of the Bloomfield Mill Pond Saturday. Here he assisted son Jack to prepare to cast his line.