Annual Vince Herding Spring Fishing Derby Draws Families for Fun in the Outdoors
The Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club (RRASC) held its annual Vince Herding Spring Fishing Derby on Saturday, May 4th. This event, which has been a tradition for over three decades, welcomed boys and girls aged 18 and under to Kidder Recreation Area for a day of angling excitement.
With the sun shining down, approximately 65 youth and their families gathered along the riverbanks to cast their lines. The event, which honors the memory of one of the RRASC’s founding members, Vince Herding, was a testament to his community spirit and love for the outdoors.

Participants were treated to lunch and the chance to reel in trophies for the top catches across various fish categories and age groups. Moreover, everyone who took part went home with a thank-you bag filled with goodies courtesy of the RRASC. Here are some of the top placers:
Largest fish caught in each age group:
- 6 & under – Max Isom 8.5 lb. Catfish
- 7 to 12 – Finn Reddy 12.25 lb. Catfish
- 13 to 18 – Ciara Nguamsanith 2.75 lb. White Sucker
Casting contest winners (closest to the target):
- 6 & under – Grantley Kruger 7’2”
- 7 to 12 – Oliver Hoffert 1’2”
- 13 to 18 – Kenna Manock 4’2”

The event’s success wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of sponsors and contributors. From local businesses to community organizations, their contributions played a vital role in making the day memorable for everyone involved.
The RRASC extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed, recognizing their role in supporting not only this event but also the club’s ongoing efforts to provide free activities for children and champion conservation initiatives across Richland and Wilkin Counties, as well as North Dakota and Minnesota.
Thank you to Smith Tire & Tread, Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative, Minn-Kota Ag Products, Inc., Doosan Bobcat, Wahpeton Kiwanis, Wahpeton Optimist Club, Comstock Construction Inc., Bremer Bank, Red River Valley & Western Railroad, Heitkamp Construction, Farmers Union Insurance – Kyle Devries, FlexTM, Hornstein Family Chiropractic, State Farm Insurance – Amanda Fredricks, Bell Bank, Wahpeton Lion’s Club, McDonald’s, Burkett Custom Knives, Old 81 Gourmet / JC’s Smoked Spitz, Fastenal, Wahpeton Deli, EconoFoods, Blazer Express, ND Game & Fish.
For more information about the RRASC and its upcoming events, visit www.RRASC.net, and stay updated by following them on Facebook and Instagram.
