by Jill Whalen jwhalen@tnonline.com
Franklin Brea, 8, proudly described landing his first trout at the 70th Annual Special Needs Fishing Derby, while his classmate, Nah’zir Harris, 7, beamed with excitement.
“I caught three fish with a worm,” Harris exclaimed, her enthusiasm shining through her wide smile.
That spirit of joy and discovery is exactly what the derby, hosted by the Germantown Grove Club and the Jim Thorpe American Legion Post 304, is designed to foster.
“The focus is on the kids — making them smile, making them laugh, and giving them the chance to enjoy a day outdoors,” said Dave “Stick” Remmel, a longtime member of the Germantown Grove Club.
Held at Germantown Grove in Jim Thorpe, Thursday’s event welcomed 150 special needs students from schools throughout Carbon County to fish the cool waters of Silkmill Run. Another 150 students were expected the following day, weather permitting, as the two-day celebration continued.
For Brea and Harris — both students in Jennifer Schlegal’s Life Skills class at Panther Valley Elementary School — it marked their first time holding a fishing rod.
From the moment students arrived, volunteers from the hosting organizations, local high schools, and the broader community provided hands-on support. They assisted with selecting rods and bait, guided casting techniques, and ensured each child had a safe and enjoyable experience.
Volunteers also filleted the fish, served lunch and snacks, painted faces, and handed out balloon animals — creating a festive and inclusive atmosphere.
“This program wouldn’t be possible without the volunteers,” Remmel said. “We’re proud to be celebrating 70 years of making these moments happen.”
The 2025 theme — “Cast a Line, Make a Difference” — was on full display as students and volunteers stood shoulder to shoulder along the banks of Silkmill Run, casting, reeling, and sharing in the excitement of every catch.
As soon as a fish was landed, volunteers sprang into action. The fish were bagged, taken to a fillet station, and expertly cleaned — bones and skin removed — before being sealed into zipper bags. Some schools take the cleaned trout to their home economics classes for cooking, while others send them home for a family meal.
“It’s really about the experience — from catching the fish to cooking and enjoying it,” said Dave “Stick” Remmel, a member of the Germantown Grove Club and long-time derby organizer.
Funding for the event, including rods, tackle, bait, food, and the trout themselves, comes from community donations and club fundraisers such as soup sales and an upcoming chicken barbecue, explained fellow club member Pete McElmoyle. “I think we stocked about 60 fish today and will do another 60 tomorrow — including a few palominos,” he noted.
Thirteen county schools and the Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit participated, pairing students with special needs with high school peers from districts including Jim Thorpe and Panther Valley. Upon arrival, each child was matched with a buddy to help guide them throughout the day.
While student volunteers supported the young anglers, adult helpers managed logistics. Jim Cottrell of Albrightsville kept the bait station stocked with garden worms, mealworms, and salmon eggs. He and his son-in-law, Roger Meckes of the Penn Forest Fire Department, joined the volunteer team after seeing an advertisement.
“It’s a super great event that they do for the kids,” Meckes said.
At a nearby table, club volunteer Erin Shigo distributed “First Fish” certificates from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, recording each student’s name, the date, and the species caught. Within the first hour, she had handed out around 50.
“It’s been very busy,” she said with a smile.
Erin’s father, Joe Shigo — a longtime derby volunteer — worked steadily nearby, skillfully preparing fillets for the young anglers to take home.
Adding a sweet touch to the day, Irene Remmel of Jim Thorpe baked 200 fish-shaped cookies and packaged them with gummy worms as treats. The snacks were served alongside lunches prepared and distributed by volunteers and enjoyed at picnic tables and grassy patches around the creek.
The event even saw a special flyover by the Lehigh Valley Health Network’s medical helicopter, and county Commissioners Wayne Nothstein and Mike Sofranko were on hand to present citations honoring the Germantown Grove Club and Jim Thorpe American Legion Post 304 for their continued service.
Representatives from Whippin’ Waters, a Palmerton-based lure and apparel company, also participated. The company donates 10% of its profits to youth fishing initiatives like this one.
Beyond fishing, students enjoyed face painting, art supplies, and balloon animals — with choices ranging from frogs and lions to dogs and snakes.
Wyatt Moyer, a student with the Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit at L.B. Morris Elementary School, stood with paraprofessional Brenda Barry as he browsed the options — ultimately choosing, fittingly, a balloon fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate in the Special Needs Fishing Derby?
The derby is open to special needs students from schools across Carbon County and the Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit. Participants are typically paired with peer volunteers or adult helpers for support and guidance throughout the day.
What activities are included besides fishing?
In addition to fishing, students can enjoy face painting, balloon animals, arts and crafts, and a picnic lunch. They also receive “First Fish” certificates, and some get to take their catch home for cooking in class or with their families.
Who organizes and funds the event?
The event is hosted by the Germantown Grove Club and Jim Thorpe American Legion Post 304. It’s funded through community donations, local business sponsors, and fundraising efforts like soup sales and chicken barbecues.
Do participants need to bring their own fishing gear?
No. All fishing rods, bait, and tackle are provided by the organizers. Volunteers are on hand to assist students in selecting gear and learning how to fish.
How long has this event been running?
The Special Needs Fishing Derby has been a local tradition for 70 years, offering children a chance to experience the outdoors, build confidence, and create joyful memories.
Conclusion
The 70th Annual Special Needs Fishing Derby is more than just a day of casting lines — it’s a celebration of inclusion, joy, and the simple thrill of spending time outdoors. With the help of dedicated volunteers, generous donors, and supportive schools, the event continues to create unforgettable memories for children who might not otherwise have the chance to experience fishing. As the 2025 theme reminds us, “Cast a Line, Make a Difference” — and for every smiling child at the water’s edge, that difference is clear.
