Rain didn’t dampen catfish derby enthusiasm in Port Bruce

Braxton Dohnt, 7, wrangled with a large specimen that was waiting in a reservoir to be weighed during the 26th annual Aylmer Optimist Club Catfish Derby in Port Bruce on Sunday morning, June 14. Braxton, who participated in his third consecutive derby in Port Bruce that day, lives in Brantford and was visiting his grandparents Dave and Laura Dohnt. A total of 182 children and youth from ages one to 16 participated in this year’s Catfish Derby which an organizer said was about average in his experience. The largest catfish caught weighed in at 18.12 pounds. Those participating were able to receive prizes and a free hot dog lunch. Officers from the West Elgin Ontario Provincial Police detachment helped the young anglers during the partially rain-soaked derby.