Fishing Rodeo Connects Youth and Law Enforcement Through Outdoor Fun

Nearly 100 children and teens spent the day reeling in fish, building friendships, and learning from local law enforcement officers at the 4th Annual Law Enforcement & Youth Fishing Rodeo in Easton, Maryland.

Held this past June on a shaded, private freshwater pond stocked with bluegill, bass, and catfish, the event provided a screen-free day of outdoor activities for young people aged 15 and under.

Fishing gear and bait were provided for those who needed them, and everyone enjoyed lunch and an awards ceremony, courtesy of the Maryland Natural Resources Police.

More than just a fishing event, the rodeo brought together officers, staff, and retirees from the Maryland State Police, Maryland Natural Resources Police, Talbot County Sheriff’s Office, Easton Police Department, Easton Fire Department, and the Talbot County Emergency Services. Cadets and Explorers from the Maryland State Police’s Eastern Shore barracks also played a key role in supporting the event.

Throughout the morning, kids earned fish stickers on their official angler badges and vied for trophies awarded to the top three anglers. The real prize, however, was the opportunity for young people to engage directly with the people who serve their communities.

“This event just keeps getting better every year,” said Major Matthew Corbin, Special Services Commander with the Maryland Natural Resources Police. “There are so many agencies and community partners who come together to make this a success.

“As I walked the property, I saw nothing but smiles—kids laughing, officers engaging, and families enjoying themselves,” he continued. “I spoke with several parents who told me they plan their June calendars around this event. That’s exactly what we’ve been hoping for.”

In addition to fishing, attendees got a close-up look at a helicopter from the Maryland Natural Resources Police, along with a fire truck, ambulance, and numerous police vehicles. The young anglers also participated in emergency services and K-9 demonstrations and visited wildlife displays from Scales-N-Tales. Hayrides to and from the pond and a cookout by Hometown Heroes BBQ Food Truck rounded out the day’s activities.

“The importance of this event is the partnership with law enforcement agencies,” said event volunteer Andy Hollis. “It’s a great way to make sure that as children and teens grow up and go through their daily lives, they become more comfortable interacting with law enforcement, and making sure they understand that it’s a friend, as opposed to anything else.

“We want to express our appreciation to all the volunteers and donors who made this event possible and successful in its fourth year,” he said.

The 2026 Law Enforcement & Youth Fishing Rodeo is scheduled for June 20. Local agencies will share additional details as the event approaches.