The excitement grew on the docks leading up to Charlie’s on Prior as 2 p.m. drew near last Sunday. The noise level grew, as did the chatter

and excitement as children carrying coolers, pails and plastic bags filled with lake water and fish headed toward the official weigh-in station.

That was the setting as the deadline neared for the Prior Lake Association’s annual Family Fishing Event. In its 25th year of hosting, it was a picture perfect day for the 56 kids who participated, along with cheering family members watching as each catch was weighed.

This year’s trophy winners included:

Sunfish: Tie, Brooks Davenport and Scout Davenport, first place; Myla Lake, second place; and Leo Lyrenmann, third place.

Crappie: Landon Kohlbek, first place (only category participant to weigh in).

Bass: Benji Lyrenmann, first place; Brady Groth, second place; and Jarett Anderson, third place.

Open Class: Lennon Lake, first place, and Mila Arechigo, second place, both entering small perch.

Northern: Daniel Schafer, first place; Jarett Anderson, second place; and Lennon Lake, third place.

Event officials said Schafer’s northern catch weighing 6.76 pounds was among the biggest brought in as part of the contest in years.

Co-sponsored by the Prior Lake-Savage Optimist Club, the association also expressed appreciation for the support received from Prior Lake Bait & Tackle, Prior Lake Ace Hardware and Charlie’s.

“Congratulations to all of the winners and participants for keeping this tradition going strong,” said Tom Stephenson, board member.