MARYSVILLE — The Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the Marysville Police Department and the Cops & Kids Foundation (a nonprofit organization), will host the inaugural Cops & Bobbers Youth Fishing Event on 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Gissberg (Twin Lakes) in Marysville.
Designed for children ages 4 to 14, the free community event brings local law enforcement officers and youth together through a shared outdoor experience centered on fishing, mentorship, and positive relationship building.
Cops & Bobbers is a community event envisioned, sponsored, and organized by the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office in partnership with the Marysville Police Department and the Cops & Kids Foundation (a nonprofit organization). The event is designed to create meaningful engagement between Snohomish County families and law enforcement professionals by providing children the opportunity to catch a fish and have a positive experience with law enforcement.
The Cops & Bobbers concept is built on a simple but powerful idea: fishing serves as a bridge between law enforcement and youth. Throughout the day, deputies work side-by-side with participants, helping them bait hooks, cast lines, reel in fish, and enjoy time outdoors. In the process, children and deputies build connections, break down barriers, and discover they have more in common than they may have realized.
“Last year, while attending training, I came across an article about communities using fishing as a way to connect law enforcement officers and youth,” said Det. Eric Fagan “I immediately saw the potential to bring that idea to Snohomish County and build upon it. This event represents another step in our commitment to being an active part of our community while giving young people an opportunity to experience fishing, perhaps for the very first time.”
Beyond catching fish, organizers hope the event inspires youth to develop a deeper appreciation for the outdoors and the valuable life lessons that come with fishing.
“One of the most important investments we can make as a community is investing our time and resources into our youth,” said Det. Eric Fagan. “Fishing is about so much more than catching a fish. It teaches patience, persistence, preparation, humility, and problem-solving. In today’s world, many kids spend significant time on phones, video games, and social media. If we can help get children outdoors, even for a few hours, and plant seeds that grow into a lifelong passion for fishing, nature, and healthy activities, then we’ve accomplished something meaningful.”
Organizers also recognize that not every family has access to fishing equipment, outdoor opportunities, or experienced mentors who can teach the sport. The event seeks to remove those barriers while creating positive interactions that can shape future generations.
“This event is designed to strengthen positive relationships between community members and law enforcement through meaningful, face-to-face engagement,” said Sgt. Nathan Smith. “By giving children the opportunity to access fishing equipment, experience the excitement of catching fish alongside deputies, we create lasting positive interactions that build trust, create connections, and promote community partnerships with our next generation in Snohomish County.”
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
