Hundreds Attend the 21st Annual Kids’ Fishing Derby at Javors Lucas Lake
Company News
Families from across Middle Georgia gathered at Javors Lucas Lake on Saturday, March 7, 2026, for the 21st Annual Kids’ Fishing Derby, a long-standing community tradition hosted by the Macon Water Authority in partnership with the Macon Water Alliance.
The free event welcomed 377 young anglers between the ages of 3 and 16, along with parents and family members, bringing total attendance to 669 people for a morning of fishing, prizes, and family fun.
Children lined the shoreline shortly after sunrise as fishing began at 7:30 a.m., with participants competing in four age categories. Awards were presented for the top catches in each group, along with recognition for the overall largest fish of the day.
The biggest fish of the derby was caught by Maddux Clanton, who landed a 9.89-pound catfish.
Category Winners
(Ages 3–5)
1st – Arthur Massey
2nd – Parker Daniel
3rd – Taylor Hayes
(Ages 6–9)
1st – Maddux Clanton
2nd – Wade Laboon
3rd – Jaxon Radetsky
(Ages 10–13)
1st – Harris Payne
2nd – Rayden Faulk
3rd – Triana Williams
(Ages 14–16)
1st – Aubree Harper
2nd – Caden Harper
3rd – Damian Lerma
“The Kids’ Fishing Derby continues to be one of our favorite community events each year,” said Rachad Hollis, Communications Specialist for the Macon Water Authority. “Seeing hundreds of kids and families enjoying the outdoors together at Javors Lucas Lake is what makes this event so special.”
The Macon Water Authority extends its sincere appreciation to the many volunteers, community partners, and sponsors who helped make this year’s event possible.
2026 Kids’ Fishing Derby Sponsors
The Macon Water Authority and Macon Water Alliance would like to thank the following sponsors for their generous support:
Total Electric Service
Appling Brothers
Warren and Associates
Elliott Machine Shop
Paul Frady – TAC Auction
Jonathan Long – TAC Auction
Sam Hall and Sons
Pyles Plumbing & Utility
Collins Manufacturing Co.
TAC Auction
Georgia Power
Hays Service
Evergreen Propane
Kenny’s Repair
Raffield Tire Masters
Old Clinton BBQ
Pamela Kent for Jared Kent
DH Pace
Bucks Quality Termite and Pest Control
Allen, Mooney & Barnes Investment Advisors
BTV
Adams Equipment
Middle Georgia Staffing
All Thing Automotive
Hometown Occupational Medicine
Neptune
Infinite Security Solutions
The Sign Store
Trinity Vault
The Macon Water Authority looks forward to welcoming families back next year for the 22nd Annual Kids’ Fishing Derby.
Media Contact
Rachad Hollis- Communications Specialist
Macon Water Authority
Phone: (478) 464-5600
Email: rhollis@maconwater.org