The Rabbit Run Fish and Game Association held its 43rd annual Fishing Derby recently at the Rabbit Run Reservoir Dam on Rabbit Run Road in Tamaqua. Despite rainy weather, hundreds of youths participated in the event.

More than 1,400 fish were stocked prior to the event. More than 100 prizes, to include two bikes, were awarded for various categories. Five prizes were also drawn every hour. Every child received free door prize packets consisting of a Cabela's cap, cap light, Eagle Claw hooks, base worms, water bottle, and other items. The bike prize winners were brought up to Wal-Mart to hand pick the bike they wanted.Local business members and association members donated the food for the derby.Rabbit Run Fish and Game Association President William Weaver pointed out, "Even though it rained during the past few derbys, our derby still gets better every year." Weaver said, "This dam is one of the longest running dams since the gold rush and was used to provide water for the steam powered vehicles before they left town from the Iron Works building that was located adjacent to the dam. This was also one of Tamaqua's first water source."A large sponsorship board displaying all the sponsors is near the entrance to the reservoir. One of the major contributors was Cabela's Outfitters, which donated many items and prizes for the event. Weaver added, "We have so many dedicated volunteers and sponsors. They all give so much time and effort. Thank you to all our derby association members, volunteers and sponsors for making this a great event every year."