Winnemucca, NV – Fifth grader Ava Balderrama has impressed the teachers at French Ford Middle School in Winnemucca with her artwork all year. So when her teacher Carol McKim learned that the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) was holding its annual Free Fishing Day poster contest; she knew exactly who she would tell.
“I sought out Ava to compete in this contest because I felt if Ava just did half of what she does on her regular assignments she would have a good chance of winning,” said McKim. “Ava is a wonderful student who does her very best at everything and on every assignment.”
Proving once again that teacher knows best, Balderrama’s entry was selected as the winner of this year’s contest beating out 267 entries from around the state.
“I am so excited to have one of my students win the state Fishing Day Poster Contest especially when I found out that student was Ava. She is an amazing student,” said McKim. “Ava was very surprised when she found out that she won. She was also thrilled, but humble.”
The runner-up spots went to Mia Bertolone, fifth grader from Minden Elementary in Minden, and fifth grader Garret Pargas from Alice Maxwell Elementary in Sparks.
As the winner, Balderrama will receive a framed copy of her artwork and a fishing rod and reel. She and her family will also be treated to a guided fishing outing.
Ava Balderrama Free Fishing Day poster
While almost all of the other entries were done with crayons or markers, Balderrama actually painted her entry. She believes her artistic talents come from her mother with a little help from some Bob Ross videos she watched. She also added that her favorite part of fishing is catching a fish with her Dad’s help.
This year’s theme for the Nevada Free Fishing Day Poster Contest was “Fishing is On the Hook.”
Free Fishing Day takes place on Saturday, June 13 this year. The statewide event allows anglers to fish any public fishing water in the state without a fishing license or trout stamp, while all limits and other regulations apply. Visit www.ndow.org to find out more about Free Fishing Day events taking place locally.
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) protects, restores and manages fish and wildlife, and promotes fishing, hunting, and boating safety. NDOW’s wildlife and habitat conservation efforts are primarily funded by sportsmen’s license and conservation fees and a federal surcharge on hunting and fishing gear. Support wildlife and habitat conservation in Nevada by purchasing a hunting, fishing, or combination license. Find us on Facebook, Twitter or visit us at www.ndow.org.
The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON
