This year’s Westerly Creek Fishing Derby caught national headlines when part-time resident Eric Springer landed what’s now being called “The Freak from the Creek”. Springer’s 15oz largemouth bass is a new state record for Boat Assisted Urban Creek Synthetic Jig Fishing, a category specific to this type of event. The previous record was a 12oz largemouth bass pulled from the Pueblo River Walk in 1992. “I’m just as surprised as you are,” Springer said of the “Freak”. “It was so late in the day when I hooked her that I had all but given up on catching anything.”
Springer, a third-time competitor, had good reason to be worried. He and fellow angler Jim Knudtson got off to a slow start when their powerboat high-centered in sand just after it launched. Knudtson expressed frustration over Westerly Creek’s poorly marked waterways. “In an event of this size we would have expected Park Services to have flagged sandbars and other hazards.” Knudtson also complained that boat traffic was extremely congested this year, suggesting that organizers consider a staggered start to next year’s event.
While Springer takes home a $1000 cash prize, the biggest winner of the event might be new Derby Sponsor Hot Topic. “We’re just thrilled with all the brand awareness that comes with being part of a record setting event like this,” said Northfield store manager Sarah Zimmerman. “It’s a meaningful opportunity for our store to connect with the sport fishing community.” Last year’s sponsor Bass Pro Shops unexpectedly cut ties with the Derby, stating, “In the 12-year history of this event no one has ever caught anything.”
When asked what he’ll do with the winnings, Springer answered that he would be making improvements to his hunting lodge located in rural Wicker Park.
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