Cops and Bobbers brings kids and cops together to go fishing | PHOTOS

CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Dozens came out Saturday for Cops and Bobbers, an event that brought young people from the community together with police officers, first responders, and their family members for a morning of fishing on a beautiful, private pond.

Fred McClintock, a detective with the Clarksville Police Department and Clarksville Police Union president, was in charge of this year’s event.

“Cops and Bobbers was really popular in the past,” McClintock said, “but it got derailed during COVID-19. This is the first time in about three years that we’ve been able to organize one of these. Eventually, we want kids from anywhere in the community to have the opportunity to come out, spend time with our local officers and first responders, and maybe learn a new hobby.”

Members of CPD and the Fraternal Order of Police were on hand to help out, and work with the less-experienced. A tent was set up near the entrance to the expansive property, which featured two large stocked ponds. Lt. Arthur Bing of CPD’s Community Relations Unit joined McClintock and others at the tent, to greet participants and provide them with all the gear they needed to get started fishing.

“A member of the community has graciously donated the use of his property, for which we are very thankful,” McClintock said. “Essentially, we have cash donations, and equipment donations from individuals and local merchants. We also received generous discounts that made it possible for us to give each kid a rod and reel, and some tackle. And, they can take all that home with them at the end of the day.

“Tailwater Marine and Tackle provided live bait for everyone. In addition to the donations we received, we have officers from CPD, and members of the FOP giving us their time for today’s event. Sango Walmart gave us extremely gracious discounts to help with the cost of equipment, and Academy Sports did that for us as well.”

Teaching a kid to fish

Mark Adrian was fishing with Colton Ammann and their dog Woody. “Colton is 7 years old,” Adrian said. “This is his first time fishing. I figured this is something that we could do together.”

Some pairs, some groups of three or four, lined the banks of the pond. Mason Ulrick made his way to the far side, looking for a sweet spot. Darryl Wells fished with his Godson Brycen.

First responder Robert Ulrick said his son Mason is a master fisherman. “He really enjoys this kind of thing. We heard about this, and he was dying to get out here and check it out.”

Aiden Slocum was really excited with his first catch of the day. Colton Ammann caught his first fish ever. Others weren’t so lucky. McClintock is already looking forward to next year’s event, which he promises will be even bigger and better.

Never miss an event: Keep up with the Summer Fun Guide or visit the Clarksville Now events page.

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