OAKLAND (AP) – Youngsters took to the ice on Messalonskee Lake and other lakes in the Oakland area for a fishing derby limited to kids under the age of 16.

The event, now in its 17th year, offered trophies in 10 categories, including perch, bass, trout and pickerel. But with T-shirts, caps and door prizes available, no one went home empty-handed.

Nine-year-old Shania Handy of Waterville got up at 5 a.m. Sunday, but said it was worth it because she came away with a 34-inch northern pike.

The derby, which attracted 175 participants, is sponsored by the Oakland Recreation Department and the Oakland Lions Club.

—

Information from: Morning Sentinel, http://www.onlinesentinel.com/

AP-ES-02-04-08 0734EST