Reeling in Tradition: Salem’s 73rd Annual Fishing Rodeo Unites Generations

The pond in Salem’s Lake Spring Park was filled with excitement Saturday morning as families gathered to celebrate the 73rd Annual Salem Fishing Rodeo, a beloved community tradition that has been connecting generations through the simple joy of fishing.

Scooter Darnell, who has been involved with the rodeo for 25 years, explained the rich history behind the event. “It was started by Pig Robertson, who lived right above the pond,” Darnell said. “Pig ran it until the 1960s, and then Lacey All, who ran the Crappy Hole fishing store, took over. I’ve been helping ever since.”

The Fishing Rodeo offers something rare today — a completely free event for kids. “We give away everything,” said Darnell. “Rods, reels, bait, T-shirts, and trophies — nobody leaves empty-handed.” Local businesses like Chick-fil-A, Shimano, and Sportsman’s Warehouse donate supplies to make it possible.

Saturday’s festivities were for children ages three to eight. First, second, and third-place trophies were awarded in several age brackets for boys and girls. The goal? To catch six fish. But Darnell emphasized that competition is secondary to community spirit. “We teach the kids how to fish. Single parents come with their kids, and we’re here to help them with anything they need.”

Special events throughout the week add to the inclusive spirit. Monday is Special Needs Day, where schools bring children with special needs to fish with extra support from teachers and peers. Wednesday welcomes nursing home residents for a day by the pond. The rodeo will conclude next Saturday with a competition for kids aged nine to twelve.

Curt Hunt, special events supervisor with Salem Parks and Recreation, explained why the rodeo is spaced over several days. “It’s so everyone has enough space and attention,” he said. “Especially for our special needs and senior groups, where extra assistance and accommodations are needed.”

Fishing days are coordinated carefully, with the pond being restocked midweek to ensure plentiful catches. “The coolest sight is at 10 a.m. when we blow the whistle to start,” Hunt said. “All the lines fly into the air at once like a sea of shimmering threads — it’s an incredible photo opportunity.”

Hallie Darnell, Scooter’s daughter, shared her personal connection to the rodeo. “My dad brought me here when I was a kid. I still have a trophy at home,” she said. Now graduating from Virginia Tech with plans to attend dental school, Hallie returns each year to volunteer, handing out shirts and gifts. “It’s a way to give back to the community that gave me so much,” she said.

The family-friendly atmosphere was clear everywhere at the park. Volunteers like Max, a longtime Salem resident and real estate agent, recalled the excitement. “Kids get so excited — it’s like Christmas Eve the night before,” he said. “They pack up their rods and bait and can’t wait to get here.”

Among the crowd was Reggie Wertz, who brought his daughter Brandie Joannay and her kids Preston and Mia. “This is our second year coming with Preston, and Mia’s first time,” Brandie said. “They had a lot of fun. It’s a great turnout this year.”

For local resident Annie Lan and her son Jerry Wu, both regulars at the rodeo, it’s a joyful tradition. “We love it,” Annie said. Jerry, known for dressing up in festive outfits for community events, beamed proudly as he prepared to fish.

The Fishing Rodeo remains a shining example of Salem’s community spirit. “Salem is special,” said Hallie. “It’s a sports town, a family town. Events like this are what keep it strong.”

With warm weather, generous volunteers, and a pond full of fish, this year’s Fishing Rodeo once again captured the heart of Salem — and promised to keep the tradition alive for generations to come.