Big Fish, Big City

Ever wanted to go fishing in the East River? If the very thought has you cringing, maybe you should think again.

If you fish in the East River during the Brooklyn Fishing Derby, you could win big - and have the catch of the day for dinner!

The Derby, also known as the "common man's fishing competition," returns for the second time ever starting at midnight October 1^st. Fishing fanatics can test their reels in the East River for six weeks following opening day. The competition is open to all amateurs.

Starting the evening of September 30, Dream Fishing Tackle will host a launch party allowing would-be fishermen to stock up on bait and tackle.

Ben Sargent, founder of the Derby, has been fishing off the docks of Greenpoint for years and finally decided to launch a contest to get others involved. Believe it or not, Sargent eats what he catches from the river; something many New Yorkers may simply cringe at the thought of.

Apparently, catching your dinner in the East River can save you a lot of money and garner some much-needed exercise. If you want to try your hand at fishing, the best times are early morning, dusk, or night. You won't have a chance during the day.

The Brooklyn Fishing Derby lasts from October 1 through November 21 at various locations along the East River. $100 to register, but you may have to pay an extra $10 for a New York State fishing license.

Source - The Brooklyn Paper, "Catch the Big One This Year"