DOVER, DE — The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) announced the winners of the 39th Annual Delaware Youth Fishing Tournament held Saturday, as over 150 young anglers braved rainy conditions to participate in the event.
The tournament, organized by the Delaware Natural Resources Police, took place simultaneously at Blockhouse Pond in Sussex County, Akridge Scout Reservation in Kent County, and Lums Pond in New Castle County. The event, established in 1986, promotes youth involvement in fishing and emphasizes catch-and-release conservation practices.
Kohen Marvel, 9, of Smyrna, was named the overall state champion after reeling in 9.53 pounds of fish at the Akridge Scout Reservation in Kent County. His catch secured both the county and statewide titles.
At the Kent County site, Beau Lindale led the 4-7 age group with 7.85 pounds, while Matthew DeCarlo topped the 8-11 division with 6.30 pounds. In the 12-15 group, Alex Kulhanek won with 5.37 pounds.
New Castle and Sussex County highlights
In New Castle County, 7-year-old Caleb Polite captured the overall title with 3.3 pounds, which also included the county’s largest fish, a 3.3-pound largemouth bass. The smallest fish, a 6-gram bluegill, was caught by Mikey Hopkins.
Winners in New Castle included Miles Hopkins, Nathan Johnson, and Brooks Wilke, who took top honors in their respective age groups.
In Sussex County, 8-year-old Webb Ciavarra claimed the overall title with 4.15 pounds of fish caught at Blockhouse Pond. Ciavarra also landed the county’s largest fish, a 1.6-pound largemouth bass, while Jissac Heath caught the smallest fish at 16 grams.
Manny Ortiz, Webb Ciavarra, and Austin Rowlands led the Sussex County age group winners.