“This event’s been going on for over 30 years."”

Krystal Meyer

CENTRAL CITY – The fish weren’t exactly biting, but families had a ton of fun! Goldfish, giggles, a garter snake, and one prize-winning trout made for a memorable Sunday.

Dozens of kids and their families gathered at William C. Russell Park, just west of Central City, on June 22, for Gilpin County’s annual Family Fun Fishing Day. 

The celebration is one of the longest-running summer traditions hosted by Gilpin County Parks and Recreation. 

“This event’s been going on for over 30 years,” said Krystal Meyer, who helped organize the day’s activities. Meyer is the Special Events Coordinator for Gilpin County Parks and Recreation.

“The Central City Elks originally started it, and we took it over about 15, maybe 20 years ago,” said Meyer, emphasizing the long-running aspect of the tradition.

With nearly 20 kids participating and around 45 attendees total, the pond and picnic area buzzed with conversations, squeals, and the occasional shout of “I got something!” 

Though more often than not, it turned out to be pond weeds or a curious garter snake.

The pond revealed shimmering orange goldfish just under the surface. But these bright targets were not interested in the bait. 

Still, one lucky angler did hook a winner: Kolby Meyer landed the first and only confirmed trout of the day, using a parachute Adams dry fly. 

That catch earned him bragging rights and a prize—a shiny new fishing pole.

For many families, like Zach and Selena Gomez-Johnson and their son Zion, the event was more about making memories than making a haul. 

“We’ve come before, missed last year, but it’s always a good time,” said Selena, laughing as we debated whether the orange fish in the pond were “drone goldfish,” since they barely moved. 

More jokes were made about the goldfish’s disinterest, and it was determined that they could not be caught due to their vegetarian diet. 

Krystal confirmed the pond had been stocked with trout ahead of the event, though the several goldfish seemed to be the work of a mystery resident, not the state hatchery.

“Sometimes you catch the most fish and win,” she said. She reported that three big fish were caught last year. Two years ago, twelve fish were caught! 

“But other years, like this one, if you catch anything, even a snake, you might just get a prize.”

Despite the elusive trout and a mysterious crew of slow-moving goldfish, spirits stayed high in the sunshine, and temperatures hovered around a comfortable 72 degrees.

The participants were served free hot dogs, brats, chips, and drinks. Kids went home with goodie bags filled with Swedish Fish, mini lures, bobbers, and even fake worms, while others took home wet shoes and wide grins. 

The nearby playground offered an easy escape for the little ones when the fish weren’t cooperating or their age prevented them from partaking in the event. Plastic fish and a tiny pole were set up on the ground for toddlers. 

“It’s free, it’s fun, and it brings people together,” said one dad. “What more could you ask for?”

Gilpin Parks and Rec bought the license for the day’s event so everyone could partake without the charge and hassle of obtaining licenses.  

Next year’s event will likely return during the first weekend of June to align with Colorado’s free fishing weekend, when no license is required. 

Stay tuned for updates on the Gilpin Parks and Recreation Facebook page. You might just hook a whopper at next year’s event!