Big catches reel in winners at Riverhead Snapper Derby
Anglers young and old lined the Peconic Riverfront Saturday for Riverhead’s 29th annual Snapper Derby, competing to see who could reel in the biggest catch.
The event featured youth and adult divisions, with proceeds benefiting the Riverhead Recreation Department’s Scholarship Fund.
“We teach the kids to not give up and have patience,” said Riverhead resident and participant Andrew Sweeney. “Something about the outdoors is a challenge that you don’t get what you want right away. We’ve never placed, but it’s just fun being out here and hopefully we catch some fish.”
In the adult division, Raul Quintana, Don Visek and Dwayne Eleazer Jr. all finished tied for first place by catching a 10-inch snapper.
Less than an inch separated the top three finishers in the youth division. Willie Martin, 12, took first with a 10 3/4-inch snapper. Anderson Austin, 11, placed second with a 10 1/2-inch catch, while Henry Boese, 11, finished third at 10 3/8 inches.
For some families, the annual derby was less about the standings than another chance to get together outdoors as summer winds down.
“The kids want to go and spend time with their cousins,” said local resident Nathan Welch.
Photos by Nick Mongiovi
