Bill Pinney was a simple man who loved and enjoyed life, especially nature and the relaxation of fishing, which he looked forward to doing with his kids and grandkids. That’s why when Bill was approached about 10 years ago by the Masonville Rod and Gun Club and asked if he would be willing to offer his pond as one of five ponds for kids to fish in, he was ecstatic.

When Bill passed away on Christmas Day in 2015 his family requested that memorial donations be sent in his name to the Masonville Rod and Gun Club and the donations poured in, a testament to the wonderful man that Bill was.

Bill was a decorated Vietnam veteran who selflessly served his county and never wanted recognition, he simply wanted to create special bonds with people, especially children. Although the fourth anniversary of Bill’s passing is coming up, his love of nature and fishing lives on through the free Annual Bill Pinney Kids Fishing Derby, sponsored by the Masonville Rod and Gun Club.

Donna Pinney
Donna Pinney
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This year, the Annual Bill Pinney Fishing Derby is free for kids up to 15-years-old and will be held on Saturday, August 10th. Registration is from 8:00 am to 9:00 am at the Masonville Rod and Gun Club, Pine Hill Road in Masonville.

All children participating in the Fishing Derby are accompanied by an adult or gun club member and then are taken to five different ponds, spending 30 minutes at each pond. All fish caught are measured and then released back into the pond. Free worms will be provided as the Derby is worm fishing only.

Donna Pinney
Donna Pinney
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At the end of the Fishing Derby, participants return to the Gun Club for a cookout and prizes. Prizes will be awarded for most fish, smallest fish, and biggest fish. Each child is sent home with their own special gift bag. If you’d like to learn more about the Bill Pinney Fishing Derby, please reach out to the Masonville Rod and Gun Club at 607- 265-3897.

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