Fishing derby nets smiles

— The banks of Crystal Lake were lined lawn chairs, tackle boxes, picnic lunches and lots of smiling children during the Seventh Annual Community Fishing Derby on Saturday morning.

More than 150 children plus their families participated in the derby, according to organizer Nickie Smith. The fishing derby is sponsored by the Decatur Assembly of God’s Take a Kid Fishing Program and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

The Game and Fish Commission stocked Crystal Lake’s overflow pond with 400 catfish on Friday morning, Smith said. Many of the fish weighed three or four pounds.

Prizes were awarded for largest fish, the smallest fish and the largest stringer infive age categories. All of the participants received a goodie bag, as well as a prize whether or not they caught a fish. Children and parents also enjoyed a free picnic lunch.

Many of the children were fishing for the first time, while others were so proficient they hardly needed any guidance to bait their hooks and cast their lines.

Children learn life lessons like patience and appreciation of nature while fishing. The sport also gives parents time to connect with their children and build relationships, Smith said.

“I believe it is a ministry the Lord has given me,” Smith said of the derby. “I was raised as a fisherman and I raised my sons as fishermen. I enjoy watching the little kids get so excited when they catch something ... It just lights their face up,” he said.

News, Pages 1 on 06/16/2010