The Hempstead Harbor Anglers Club is a not-for-profit organization headquartered on the north shore of Long Island, New York. The club was founded in 1992 by four avid fisherman from Glen Head and Glen Cove, New York. The intention was the formation of a organization that would relate the joys of recreational fishing to the surrounding community and the benifical comaraderie of a belonging to a club. The ideals of conservation, sportsmanship, and community service were the ideals that shaped the first charter.

After the charter and bylaws were written, the fishing club was ready to hold its first meeting. In August 1992, twelve members attended the historic first meeting of the Hempstead Harbor Anglers Club.

One of the main activities during the fishing season are the club's numerous fishing tournaments and derbies. There are contests held for most of the saltwater fish species that inhabit the western Long Island Sound. Members young and old complete for bragging rights and trophies in each contest. The club has a special categories for junior members, less than 18 years old, and has many spouses who join together and enjoy what the club has to offer. It is not uncommon for junior members to out-fish the senior members, nor for many of the spouses to engage in some friendly ( most of the time ) competition. The club also organizes weekend competitions between members and neighboring fishing clubs.

Of all the successful activities the club organizes, none give it more pride than the annual SNAPPER DERBY. Inaugurated in 1996, and held each September the Snapper Derby attracts over 100 local children, age 5 through 16, to have fun, participate in a little friendly competition, and learn a few fishing secrets from the HHAC members. Top prizes are awarded to the children who catch the largest snapper bluefish, as well as an Outstanding Angler Award. The prizes and raffle that follow the derby are all supported by the generosity of the Town of Oyster Bay, local businesses and organizations, and of course club members. Everyone leaves the Snapper Derby with a little more than they came with.

In 2002, The Hempstead Harbor Anglers Club celebrated it's tenth anniversary, and looked back on its first 10 years with pride. It has supported local conservation groups through donations as well as being their " eyes on the water ". Club members practice conservation by keeping only the fish they intend to eat, adhering strictly to the conservation laws of the states New York and Connecticut, and teaching others about consevation whenever possible. While on the water, competing or otherwise, sportsmanship takes first priority. Many a fellow angler or boater has been assisted by a HHAC member when they experience trouble on the water.

Each year, the HHAC celebrates with a Fundraiser/Awards Dinner held in the dark of winter, when angling is more of a daydream than a reality. This annual event is fun for all as members reminisce of the past year, make plans for the year ahead, and yes, tell stories of -
' THE ONES THAT GOT AWAY '
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