Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler announced on March 5, 2026 the launch of the sixth annual Orange County District Attorney’s Office Youth Fishing Derby. The contest will run from April 1 through September 14, 2026, and is open to children ages 4 to 18 who are the children or grandchildren of Orange County residents.
Fishing teaches valuable life lessons such as patience, perseverance, and how to handle both success and failure. Many notable figures—including several U.S. presidents—have turned to fishing as a way to unwind and escape the pressures of everyday responsibilities. Through this derby, young anglers are encouraged to enjoy the outdoors, spend time with family and friends, and develop a respect for nature.
The program is also part of the District Attorney’s broader Community Outreach initiative, which promotes positive recreational activities as alternatives to drug use and gang involvement. The derby was first introduced during the COVID pandemic as a way to get young people outside and engaged in healthy activities, and it continues to grow in popularity each year.
Participants should note that any size fish entered has an equal chance of winning, as the contest winners are selected through a random drawing.
Contest Rules
Entry into the Youth Fishing Derby is free. Fish may be caught anywhere in New York State, and all participants must follow current New York State fishing regulations. Both freshwater and saltwater species are eligible for entry.
To participate, contestants must email a photo of the child holding their catch, along with the child’s first name and an adult contact phone number, to dafishingcontest@gmail.com.
Each angler may submit up to three fish photos during the contest period to increase their chances of winning. A total of ten winners will be selected at random from all entries received between April 1 and September 14. Each participant is eligible to win one prize package.
All photos submitted become the property of the Orange County District Attorney’s Office Youth Fishing Derby.
Prize Package
Each winner will receive a limited-edition Orange County District Attorney’s Office T-shirt along with a Mystery Tackle Box Bass Fishing Kit. The first winner drawn will also receive a $100 gift card as a bonus prize.
Prizes may be picked up at the Orange County District Attorney’s Office in Goshen or will be mailed to winners following the conclusion of the contest.
