(PEMBROKE, ON) – The Upper Ottawa Valley (UOV) Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) hosted their annual Kids, Cops and Canadian Tire Fishing Derby on Saturday, August 9, 2025.

UOV OPP officers and Auxiliary Officers, along with dedicated community volunteers, hosted the children’s fishing derby at the Pembroke Waterfront. A sunny and warm day brought out 84 young anglers that took part in the catch and release derby along the picturesque banks of the Ottawa River.

This event is sponsored by Fishing Forever, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to funding worthwhile fishing, conservation, and education projects. It is also supported by the City of Pembroke, Pembroke Police Service Board, the Police Association of Ontario, Ontario Provincial Police Association, Canadian Tire, Giant Tiger, Allan’s Bait and Tackle, Wholesale Club, Renfrew County Crime Stoppers and the OPP Youth Foundation.

According to Bob Izumi, chair of Fishing Forever, there is nothing that puts a smile on a kid’s face faster than catching a fish. “That’s why I love to create opportunities for children and families to go fishing,” states Izumi. “Fishing is one of the very best ways for parents and other adults to establish productive and healthy relationships with children.”