The Brooklyn Fishing Derby culminated Sunday after three days and nights of aggressive angling. The event, sponsored by the Brooklyn Urban Anglers Association, brought together fishermen and women from all over who enjoy casting a line while admiring the New York City skyline.

And yes, these folks were playing for keeps: most participants said they’d be okay taking a bite of striped bass — like, say, the 12-pound, 36-incher that Jon Ruffino, winner of the inaugural 2009 derby, hauled in this year.  That’s a migratory fish that passes through the area this time of year and — in theory – hasn’t spent too much time in the less than crystalline waters of the East River.

Watch the video to hear from the bassmasters at India Street Pier in Greenpoint, and fish on!