Ennis Lions Club Hosts Another Successful Father’s Day Kids Fishing Derby
ENNIS, MT — Sunshine, smiling families, and plenty of fish made for a memorable day at the 2026 Ennis Lions Father’s Day Kids Fishing Derby, held at Lions Park in Ennis. The annual event once again brought together local families, volunteers, and community sponsors to celebrate Father’s Day in one of the Madison Valley’s favorite traditions.
With beautiful weather and a pond full of eager trout, children of all ages enjoyed a day of fishing alongside their fathers, grandfathers, and families. The fishing pond was generously stocked by the Ennis Fish Hatchery, helping ensure plenty of action throughout the day.
The derby was coordinated by Steve Pennaz and Mike Delaney, with support from dozens of dedicated members of the Ennis Lions Club, who spent countless hours organizing, setting up, cooking lunch, registering participants, awarding prizes, and making sure every child had a great experience.
In addition to fishing, children had the opportunity to create unique fish prints with Forest Service Fish Biologist Monica Berreman, whose educational fish-printing station was a popular attraction throughout the event.
The Ennis Lions served a complimentary picnic lunch, giving families an opportunity to relax and enjoy the day together while taking in the beautiful setting at Lions Park.
More than 120 raffle prizes were distributed to children attending the derby, ensuring that many young anglers went home with a special prize regardless of the size of their catch.
Awards were presented in three age divisions:
Ages 0–6
Ages 7–9
Ages 10–12
Within each division, prizes were awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place, along with a special prize for the Largest Fish, which measured an impressive 19 3/4 inches.
The Ennis Lions Club extends its sincere appreciation to the many businesses and organizations whose support helped make the event possible:
- Harrington Bottling Company
- Madison Valley Women’s Club
- Beartooth Fly Fishing Lodge
- Town Pump
- Montana Knife Company
- Fanelli & Co.
- The Tackle Shop
- Wheat Montana
- Shedhorn Sports
- Murdoch’s
- Deemo’s
- Kelly Galloup’s NorthSlide
- Plain Janes
“The Father’s Day Fishing Derby continues to be one of the highlights of the year for the Ennis Lions Club,” said incoming Lions President, Mike Delaney. “It’s all about creating memories for kids and families while enjoying the outdoors together. Seeing so many fathers and children fishing side by side is what makes this event so special.”
The Lions also announced their Summer Fishing Raffle, featuring five outstanding prizes for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. Tickets are available for $5 each or 5 tickets for $20, and may be purchased from any Ennis Lion. Proceeds support the Ennis Lions Club’s many community service projects throughout the year.
From the first cast to the final prize presentation, the 2026 Father’s Day Kids Fishing Derby proved once again why it remains a cherished Madison Valley tradition… bringing together families, volunteers, and community partners for a day filled with laughter, friendship, and fishing.
About the Ennis Lions Club
The Ennis Lions Club is dedicated to serving the Madison Valley through community projects, youth programs, vision initiatives, scholarships, Lions Park improvements, and numerous charitable activities. Following the Lions motto, “We Serve,” the club continues to make a positive impact throughout the community. Check out ennismtlions.org for more information.