The annual Carp Rodeo at Upper Pahranagat Lake on April 18 brought families and anglers from across the region, but one local participant stood out early in the day.

Keegan Winnie of Overton reeled in the first carp and largest fish of the event, earning recognition during the popular fishing derby held at the Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge.

“This event was more successful than in previous years,” said Abbey Czarnecki, Southern Region Angler Education Coordinator for the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW).

For Winnie, the event offered more than just competition. Like many participants, he took part in the Carp Rodeo to enjoy time outdoors while contributing to an important conservation effort. The annual event, which began in 2012, focuses on removing invasive carp that disrupt the lake’s ecosystem.

Carp consume large amounts of aquatic vegetation, which plays a critical role in supporting native waterfowl. By participating in the derby, anglers help protect those habitats while enjoying a day on the water.

Fishing began shortly after registration, though the bites started off slow before picking up around 9:30 a.m. Winnie’s early catch set the tone for the morning, as participants competed to catch the first, most and largest carp.

“I was just happy to catch something,” Winnie said as he was presented with his certificate.

The event drew approximately 150 attendees, many taking advantage of free fishing provided by NDOW. Fishing poles and bait were available for participants, with equipment donated by the Wildlife Habitat Improvement of Nevada. Kids who borrowed rods were even able to keep them, adding to the excitement for younger anglers.

Beyond fishing, the event featured educational booths and activity stations highlighting native species, conservation efforts and local history. Children had the opportunity to make their own fishing nets through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, while other stations introduced topics such as archaeology in Lincoln and Clark counties. The refuge’s mascot, Puddles the blue goose, also made an appearance.

Organizers emphasized the importance of carp removal as part of ongoing conservation efforts. As an invasive species, carp consume large amounts of aquatic vegetation, which is essential for native waterfowl. “We need those plants for our native ducks,” organizers shared.

At the conclusion of the event, awards and prizes were distributed, including kayaks awarded to top winners. Winnie proudly took home a bright, fluorescent kayak. Additional honors went to participants for the first carp, the biggest carp, which measured 23.5 inches, and for catching the most carp.

Events like the Carp Rodeo continue to bring together communities from across the region, offering opportunities for recreation, education and conservation.

Refuge manager Rob Vinson noted that the refuge hosts thousands of visitors each year. He encouraged the public to explore areas such as the nearby Black Canyon Trail.

For Winnie and others along the shoreline that morning, the event was less about the size of the catch and more about the experience — being outside, learning something new and taking part in protecting the waters that make Southern Nevada home.