As adult competitors rivaled each other on Lake Erie, dozens of local children lined the pier to participate in the WNY Walleye Classic Kids Fishing Clinic and Derby Day, directed by Primitive Patriot Outdoors, LLC President Josh Larsen and his team. For many of those youngsters, the event represented far more than fishing. It was an opportunity to learn, connect and create memories that could last a lifetime.

This year’s clinic carried special meaning. Larsen announced that the event had been renamed the Braydon Wilson Memorial Fishing Clinic and Derby, honoring the young boy whose passing last year touched many hearts throughout the community. The renaming transformed the clinic from a youth fishing event into a living tribute — one that ensures Braydon’s memory will continue inspiring future generations of anglers.

Children arrived with varying levels of experience. Some brought their own rods and tackle, while others came with nothing more than enthusiasm. No child was left behind. Fishing rods, reels, bait, instruction and encouragement were provided, creating an inclusive environment where every participant could experience success.

And succeed they did.

Tournament Director Josh Larsen, left, said that children arrived to the Dunkirk Per with varying levels of experience. Some brought their own rods and tackle, while others came with nothing more than enthusiasm; many of them caught fish. Photo courtesy of Sandra Shisler

Yellow perch, sunfish, rock bass, gobies and smallmouth bass were all caught throughout the two-hour event window. Smiles were plentiful, excitement was contagious, and nearly every child landed fish. The derby utilized a catch-photo-release format, with winners determined by the combined length of fish caught.

In a moment that seemed destined to happen, Braydon Wilson’s brother, Gaven Wilson, emerged as the derby champion with an impressive 77 total inches of fish. Among his catches was an outstanding 18 1-2-inch smallmouth bass. It was a touching and memorable victory, one that added an emotional chapter to a day already filled with meaning. For many in attendance, seeing Gaven honored in the first year of the Braydon Wilson Memorial Fishing Clinic and Derby felt especially fitting.

Larsen, reflecting on the weekend, spoke from the Central Avenue stage about gratitude, perseverance, and purpose. His passion for helping children and veterans has become a defining part of the WNY Walleye Classic experience. What began as a fishing tournament has

evolved into a community event that recognizes the importance of investing in the next generation.

As the crowd applauded, it was clear the greatest success of the weekend could not be measured on a tournament scale. It was found in the laughter of children, the support of families, the remembrance of Braydon Wilson, and the example set by community leaders willing to create opportunities for others.

Special thanks are due to the City of Dunkirk for its continued support, to the parents who brought their children to participate, and to Primitive Patriot Outdoors, LLC and its president, Josh Larsen, whose vision created this remarkable venue and experience. Larsen paid special tribute to retired New York State trooper and former City of Dunkirk Mayor Wilfred “Willie” Rosas, who helped to implement this event in Dunkirk three years ago. Now in its sixth year, the WNY Walleye Classic continues to prove that while fishing tournaments may crown champions, their greatest legacy is often the young lives they inspire.

Gotta love the outdoors.

CALENDAR

June 11: Southtowns Walleye Association, monthly meeting, 7 p.m. start, 6 p.m. tournament registration start (last signup day), 5895 Southwestern Blvd., Hamburg.

June 12-13: FISH716 Walleye Classic, Barcelona Harbor, $500 entry, Calcutta’s, Big Fish Friday, main event is June 13, visit FISH716.com to register, or call chairman Cody Allen: 716-352-0443 or 716-581-3054.

June 13-21: 42nd annual nine-day Southtowns Walleye Tournament, Lake Erie, $110 entry, $100k prizes; Info: https://www.southtownswalleye.com/.

June 14: Ellington Rod & Gun, “Don’t Know Partner Trap League,” 1045 Hagerdon Hill Road, Ellington; Info: 716-287-3987.