Get Out Your Fishing Rods!
By Sandy Balayan
June 2025
The Smile Like Jack Memorial Fund, in cooperation with the Knox Trail chapter of Whitetails Unlimited, has once again generously supplied the Otis Reservoir with five hundred trout. For the third year in a row, twelve of those trout are swimming around the lake with a special tag attached to them. If you are one of the lucky ones to catch a trout with a green tag, then you will be the recipient of a cash prize of $500, $200 or $100. This contest is very special to the O’Brien family who lost their son Jack three years ago. “It’s been a great honor for our family that Whitetails and Bill Bailey have chosen this special way to honor Jack. Jack was an avid sportsman and especially loved fishing and teaching young people to fish,” said Jack’s mom Star Saloomey O’Brien.
Bill, who happens to be Jack’s Uncle, agrees with Star. “It’s been a pleasure for Whitetails to supply the trout and sponsor this event. Jack loved the reservoir and fishing. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with his family. This fishing competition is a friendly and fun activity that Jack would definitely have appreciated,” said Bill.
For Star, her husband Mike and daughter Erin, the Smile Like Jack Memorial Fund is a way to spread joy and positive vibes to the community and at the same time, raise money for scholarships and other good deeds. Jack brought everyone together and now his foundation continues to bring people together. The most successful fundraiser to date is the Smile Like Jack Memorial 5/10K run/walk. The fourth annual event will take place this July 12th rain or shine. Information on sponsorships, donor possibilities of items to raffle and registration can all be accessed by contacting Jack’s cousin Riley Bailey at rileykbailey01@gmail.com.
Race bibs and t-shirts will be available on Friday July 11 from 5:00-7:00 pm at the Knox Trail Inn or prior to the race, which kicks off from the Knox Trail Inn parking lot.
Whitetails has also supplied 500 brook trout directly into the Farmington River. Although they aren’t tagged for cash prizes, they still are up for grabs. “The first year, seven out of 12 tagged fish were caught in The Reservoir; year two, six out of 12. We hope to see all 12 green tags this year. Please text message me at (413) 244-2304 for verification and redemption. And, just a reminder, be courteous and practice safe boating on our beautiful waterways in Otis,” said Bill.
Jack O’Brien continues to inspire and give to our community. As the O’Briens continue to heal from their devastating loss, they take comfort in the support and love that Otis has offered. See you at the race!
