Jun 17, 2026
Photo courtesy of Westfield Fish & Game This Saturday, June 20, the Westfield Fish & Game Club is holding their Annual Kids Fishing Derby from 10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. The club is located at 8150 Ogden Road in Westfield. The event is free and open to the public.
For generations, the Westfield Fish & Game Club has quietly served as one of Chautauqua County’s gateways to the outdoors, offering opportunities for sportsmen and families alike to enjoy fishing, hunting, shooting sports, and conservation education. While many private clubs are often perceived as exclusive, Westfield Fish & Game welcomes new members from the public at an affordable annual cost and places a strong emphasis on youth development, outdoor education and stewardship of natural resources.
The club’s grounds provide a diverse range of recreational opportunities. Members have access to trap and skeet shooting facilities, rifle and handgun ranges, stocked ponds for fishing and surrounding forests and fields used for hunting activities. Beyond recreation, the club has long supported programs designed to introduce young people to safe, responsible outdoor traditions.
That mission will be on full display over the next two weekends as the club hosts two youth-focused events aimed at introducing children and families to the outdoors. On Saturday, the club will host a youth fishing and learning program that promises a day of fun, education, and outdoor adventure for local children. From 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. young anglers will have the opportunity to fish the club’s ponds while learning about fish, aquatic habitats, and responsible angling practices. This event is open to the public. Organizers will provide a free hamburger and hot dog lunch for participants — though attendees are welcome to bring their own lunch, and prizes will be awarded to children across three age groups: 4 to 8 years, 9 to 12 years, and 13 to 15 years of age. Note that kids of all ages are welcome to fish and have fun. Some of the rod/reel prizes will be donated by the Western New York Walleye Association.
Club members say the program is designed not only to help children catch fish, but also to build a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors.
“Events like these create memories that last a lifetime,” organizers note. “For many children, this may be their first experience fishing, and we hope it sparks a lifelong love of nature and conservation.”
Photo courtesy of National Wild Turkey Federation Next Saturday, June 27, Westfield Fish & Game will host their annual JAKES Day program, a youth-centered event focused on outdoor skills and education affiliated with the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF).
Families are encouraged to attend and introduce their children to one of Western New York’s most cherished outdoor traditions.
The following weekend, on June 27, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the club will host its annual JAKES Day program — another youth-centered event focused on outdoor skills and education. Affiliated with the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), the acronym JAKES is short for Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship.
The program introduces young people to a variety of outdoor activities while emphasizing safety and ethical practices. Participants can expect instruction in firearm safety, turkey hunting education, and hands-on outdoor adventure skills.
“The program aims to give youth practical experience while teaching the importance of conservation and responsible hunting traditions,” says member Gary Burmaster.
Programs like JAKES Day have become increasingly important as outdoor organizations work to connect younger generations with nature and preserve America’s sporting heritage. For more information on JAKES Day, contact Bob Turk at 716-673-6703.
The Westfield Fish & Game Club’s commitment extends beyond its membership rolls. Through public events, educational programs, and conservation efforts, the organization serves as a valuable community resource for residents throughout Chautauqua County.
Whether someone is interested in target shooting, fishing, hunting, or simply introducing a child to the outdoors, club leaders say there is a place for everyone. With affordable memberships and a calendar of family-friendly events, the club continues to provide opportunities for people of all ages to experience the outdoors safely and responsibly, all at a very affordable annual membership cost.
As summer arrives in Western New York, the next two weekends offer families an ideal opportunity to discover what the Westfield Fish & Game Club has to offer — and perhaps inspire the next generation of anglers, hunters, and conservationists. The club is located at 8150 Ogden Road in Westfield. For information on individual or family membership, event registration, or volunteer opportunities, visit the Westfield Fish & Game Club directly. Their Facebook page offers additional details about trap shoots and adult activities.
Gotta love the outdoors.
Outdoor Calendar:
June 18: Lake Erie Chapter of Fly Fishers International, monthly meeting, Burchfield Arts, 2001 Union Rd., West Seneca, 6 p.m., fly tying; 7 p.m., guest speaker, Adam Slavinski on Catskill trout fishing.
June 20: Youth Fishing Derby, Westfield Fish & Game, 8150 Ogden Rd., Westfield; 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Free, open to public, register upon arrival; fishing rods/reels for use are available at no charge, Info: 716-326-2289.
June 20: Annual Game Dinner/Picnic, West Falls Conservation, 4 p.m. start, prizes, bring a dish to pass, open to club and non-club members, 55 Bridge St., West Falls. Info, contact Al Gai: 716-937-3271.
June 20-21: Jake Ernewein Memorial Fishing Contest, Chautauqua Lake, adults and juniors: adults $10 registration, youth under 16 – free; Chautauqua Lake Fishing Association, 10 Chadakoin Pkwy., Celeron, NY; Info: 716-664-9152.
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