Glen Cove Mayor's Snapper Derby

One of the most fun summer events in my town is the annual Snapper Derby. I talked with Ralph V. Suozzi, Glen Cove mayor, about it. It's happening Saturday, Aug. 17 at Pryibil Beach Pier.

I asked him what the Mayor's Snapper Derby is all about. He said, "It is a tournament run by the Glen Cove Anglers Club and Matinecock Rod and Gun Club. These clubs give up their morning to run this event. It is an opportunity to introduce fishing, a fun family activity. It's a good day for the kids to enjoy nature and have fun. They are fishing for a snapper, which is a baby blue fish. I have attended this event and I have had lots of fun."

Glen Cove residents can register from 8:15-9:30 a.m. Fishing begins at 8:30 and continues to 11:30 a.m. Then come the prizes. The day is chosen by the high tide. They say when it's high tide the fish bite.

The event, held for more than 30 years, is very popular in Glen Cove. Organizers break it down by age group for kids as young as 6 up to age 16 and they usually get about 200 kids. You need to bring your own fishing equipment.