Overview:
Family and youth took center stage at the Olsebek a Kmai Fishing Derby, where 19 junior anglers competed alongside seasoned fishers and the Eberdong siblings helped dominate the adult standings.
AIMELIIK, Palau — Family fishing teams and a new generation of anglers highlighted the Olsebek a Kmai Fishing Derby in Aimeliik State, with the Eberdong siblings helping dominate the adult standings and 19 junior anglers taking part in a full day on the water.
Held Sept. 27 at Kamosang Dock, the derby featured competition in barracuda, wahoo and Spanish mackerel categories despite rough sea conditions.
Team I-Green, captained by Jonathan Eberdong, claimed first place after his daughter, Lulu Eberdong, reeled in a 65-pound barracuda.
Team Ngerang, captained by Toribiong Mekreos, finished second with a 28.5-pound wahoo caught by his daughter, Rie Mekreos.
Team Misaker, captained by Techeboet Eberdong, placed third with a 22-pound wahoo, giving the Eberdong siblings a strong showing among the adult winners.
The derby also featured a special Junior Anglers Category, giving young fishers an opportunity to compete and gain experience on the water.
Kyrie Gellys took first place with a combined catch weighing 6.23 pounds. Beltikereng Rekemesik finished second with 3.26 pounds, while Ethan Isim Isimang placed third with 2.85 pounds.
Junior anglers from Koror departed at 8 a.m., while participants from Kamosang were picked up at Kamosang Dock at 9 a.m. Fishing continued until the competition ended at 2 p.m.
Organizers congratulated all 19 junior anglers, emphasizing that fishing is more than competition — it is also a way to build community, strengthen family ties and pass fishing knowledge and traditions to the next generation.