30th Annual Kids Fishing Derby Set for June 9
COOKEVILLE – A day of free fishing awaits young anglers at Cane Creek Park.
The 30th annual Kids Fishing Derby – presented by the Tennessee Tech University Student Fisheries Association, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and Cookeville Leisure Services – will be held June 9. The event coincides with Tennessee Free Fishing Day, so no fishing license is required.
“It’s really a great way for parents and children to experience one of the outdoor recreation opportunities that Cookeville has to offer,” Savannah Fernholz, TTU graduate student and fishing derby chairperson, said. “We have had a lot of fun in the past hosting the derby, and it is a nice way for TTU students to give back to the community and bring everyone together for a fun afternoon of fishing.”
Children ages 15 and under may participate. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. at Cane Creek Park’s Lakeview Shelter. Fishing will be from 8:30-10:30 a.m., followed by a picnic from 10:30 a.m.-noon. Prizes will be awarded in each age group for most fish caught and largest fish.
Participants should bring their own fishing gear and bait. (A limited amount of loaner equipment will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.)
“We’d love for everyone to come out and enjoy the Kids Fishing Derby at Cane Creek Park,” Cara Sheets, Leisure Services recreation superintendent, said. “Fishing is such a great pastime to enjoy with your family, and this is the perfect time and definitely the perfect place to try it out.”
Tennessee Free Fishing Day is a statewide event that takes place annually on the Saturday of the first full week in June. On this day, anyone may fish in public waters, agency-owned and operated lakes and state parks without a license to “celebrate fishing as a wholesome and healthy recreational option,” according to TWRA.
Additionally, children ages 15 and under may continue to fish without a license during Free Fishing Week, June 9-15. The purpose is to introduce children to the enjoyment and excitement of a day on the water catching fish. (All children under age 13 may fish without a license any time.)
For more information about the Kids Fishing Derby at Cane Creek Park, call 526-7393.
Photo Cutline:
Honey Wilson looks at a catfish with Justin Pinkston of the Tennessee Tech University Student Fisheries Association during last year’s Kids Fishing Derby at Cane Creek Park. This year’s event will be held June 9, with registration beginning at 7:30 a.m. at the Lakeview Shelter.