Arthur Lem Memorial Snapper Tournament

Molly with her "Barbie" pole

Arthur Lem Memorial Snapper Tournament

by Bradlee White

Arthur Lem was one of Kismet’s pioneers. Besides investing in and developing property on East Lighthouse, he was a marvelous cook, a merry prankster and a mentor to generations of children whom he taught to fish. After his death, his wife Rose and son Warren and his wife, Lee, put together a Memorial Snapper Fishing Tournament for children under 12 years of age. Buddy S., a former teacher, is always on deck to help out. This year the family was joined by Rose’s son Howard and her niece, Mary-Ann. Sponsors included Willy K (bait), Kismet Market, Kismet Inn and the Pizza Shack.

Basic rule: Mom and Dad can help, but the child must catch the fish off the dock, carry it to the weighing stand by the Market, and release it back into the water. There were 44 kids registered, many of them visitors, like Owen Cole’s sisters Caelinn and Ella. Prizes were given for the biggest fish and the most fish caught boy girls and boys in each of four age groups. Winning girls for biggest snapper included Lily (under 6); Elizabeth (9-10) and Kayla (11-12). Winning boys included Lines (under 6); Nick (7-8); Tack (9-10 and Ryan (11-12). Lily and Teddy caught the most fish.

Once the trophies were handed out, and the annual group photo shot taken, the contestants picked up a soda at the Market, a hot dog and fries at the Inn and ice cream at the Pizza Shack.