In an exciting turn of events at the annual Lake Champlain International Father's Day Derby, a young fisherman achieved a remarkable feat by landing a record-breaking freshwater drum. This accomplishment brought both individual recognition and substantial financial rewards to his family, underscoring the thrill of competitive angling and the unexpected potential of overlooked species. The event showcased the deep family tradition of fishing and the dedication required to succeed in such competitions.
The story unfolds with a 10-year-old's persistence and skill, culminating in a state record that surpassed previous achievements by a considerable margin. This significant catch not only highlighted the angler's talent but also the strategic approach of his family in targeting freshwater drum, a species they believe offers an exhilarating challenge. The success at the derby, particularly the substantial prize winnings, served as a testament to their efforts and the value of pursuing less conventional sport fish.
A Memorable Catch and a New State Record
During the Lake Champlain International Father's Day Derby, young Grayson Carey, at just ten years old, made an unforgettable catch that etched his name into Vermont's fishing history. Participating alongside his family, a tradition for the Carey household, Grayson reeled in a massive 28.5-pound freshwater drum. This extraordinary fish, measuring 37.5 inches in length with a 29-inch girth, was officially confirmed as a new state record, surpassing the previous record by three pounds. The intense battle with the powerful drum, which took the young angler over five minutes to bring to the boat, captivated everyone on board and marked a defining moment in the tournament.
The Carey family had strategically targeted freshwater drum, also known as sheepshead, a species they consider an underrated sportfish, often found in abundance in Lake Champlain. Their approach involved fishing through the night, as experience showed that the early morning hours, particularly around 2 a.m., yielded the best results for catching these powerful fish. Anchored near a river mouth in approximately 12 feet of water, their boat was equipped with 12 rods, each baited with live crayfish. When Grayson's rod took a hit, the initial resistance indicated a substantial catch. His father, Jason Carey, immediately recognized the fish's record potential upon netting it, a realization confirmed by a Boga grip measurement before the official weigh-in at Point Bay Marina. This monumental catch not only broke a state record but also solidified the family's deep-rooted passion for fishing.
Beyond Bragging Rights: A Lucrative Victory
Grayson Carey's record-setting freshwater drum not only earned him bragging rights and a place in Vermont's fishing history but also brought a significant financial windfall to his family. The official weigh-in at the Father's Day Derby confirmed the 28.5-pound drum's status as a state record, which, combined with the family's strategic entry into the tournament's kids' team category, resulted in an impressive prize payout. The unique circumstances of a state record catch within their division led to combined winnings exceeding $22,000, ultimately totaling around $26,000. This substantial sum significantly rewarded the family's dedication and skill, transforming a memorable fishing experience into a highly lucrative one.
The Carey family, a multi-generational fishing team including Jason Carey, his son Grayson, daughter Ella, and father-in-law Jeff Morse, along with captain Ryan Critchlow and his sons, Hayden and Wyatt, annually participates in the Lake Champlain International Father's Day Derby. Their consistent focus on freshwater drum, a species known for its strong fight, proved to be a winning strategy. The decision to fish throughout the night, believing that drum are most active in the dark, paid off handsomely. The prize money, amplified by a bonus for setting a state record, not only celebrated Grayson's individual achievement but also recognized the collective effort and expertise of the entire team. This victory underscores how passion, strategic planning, and a little bit of luck can lead to extraordinary outcomes in the world of competitive fishing.