MARINE CORPS AIR STATIO IWAKUNI, Japan -- Families got the chance to break away from the Station Sunday to take part in the Marine Corps Community Services Father's Day Fishing Derby at the Yaskasa Dam.
Although slight rain and overcast skies gave off a glum feeling, laughter and smiles on the children's faces when they hooked a lunker or saw dad battling to bait a worm brightened the day.
Not long after the lines started hitting the water, Ryan Leckemby, a 10-year-old fisherman, hooked a small bluegill with a cricket on a hook and bobber to mark the first fish of the derby.
Although catching bluegill is fun and exciting, many ventured to other sports to find bigger and better fish.
On a different arm of the Yasaka Dam, one father and son team was reeling in the big ones.
Steven Sagi and his 8-year-old son Atom had found the secret to catch the black bass that inhabit the lake. Although the Sagi fishermen walked away with four bass, Atom, who landed three, was able to earn his keep from years of experience.
"I am a pro," exclaimed Atom. "That is why I can catch more fish then my dad!"
Back at the main fishing hole 5-year-old Trevor Vann was getting an invaluable lesson from his dad Troy on how to catch the big ones.
Although Troy was making new memories with his sons at the derby, he couldn?t help but recall his early fishing days.
"I grew up fishing with my uncle so that was all I ever really knew," said Troy. "Anytime I can get out and spend time with my kids in the same way is outstanding."
Even though not everyone caught a fish, the time spent with dad on Father's Day made the derby a keeper.
"The best part about the derby was sitting back and talking with my dad while waiting for the fish to bite," said Sabrina Leckemby, age 13.