Nine-year-old Lucas Wendell, who attends W.E. Cundiff Elementary School, made quite a catch
at Vinyard Park on March 16.
on his ninth birthday. (photos courtesy of Cory Wendell)
His father, Cory Wendell, shared the story.
“On March 16, 2024, Lucas Cole Wendell started his morning off with Vinton Booster Club
baseball evaluations for the Minor League. Beforehand, Lucas asked to go fishing after baseball
was finished. This took place at Vinyard Park. Around 11 a.m., we wrapped things up with
baseball evaluations. Lucas and I packed away his baseball equipment and grabbed our fishing
rods and tackle. We walked over to the creek and began our fishing adventure. We fished for
hours on this beautiful Saturday afternoon.
“Around 4 p.m., Lucas tossed his line out and started to reel his line back in. During his reel back
in, he was able to hook what would be the biggest brook trout he has caught thus far. The fish put
up a good fight, but Lucas was able to bring the fish in without it getting loose. As Lucas brought
the trout to the surface, we could tell it was a good one. We immediately placed it on the
stringer; then we measured and weighed the fish. Virginia State Citation Brook Trout is 2 pounds
and 16 inches in length. Lucas caught one that was 2 pounds, 13 ounces, and 15 and a half inches
long!
“Lucas was very thankful to have caught such an amazing fish– and on his birthday weekend.
His birthday is on St. Patrick’s Day! Luck was definitely on his side! A special thank you to
Shane Clinebell for helping land the catch!”
Cory Wendell says he has been fishing Glade Creek for many years and has never heard of
someone catching a brook trout this size in this area.
Lucas is in third grade at W.E. Cundiff. This is his third year playing baseball. He will be playing
for the Vinton Cubs 10U (Minor League). His dad says Lucas enjoys outdoor sports– football,
baseball, hunting, and fishing.
“We share the passion for outdoor sports as a family,” Cory said. “It’s definitely a good bonding
time for us!”
