Fishing derby set June 18 at Crystal Lake

— Parents and kids can discover the joys of fishing together at the fishing derby, sponsored by the Decatur Assembly of God Church and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, at Crystal Lake on June 18.

The derby, now in it's eighth year, is for kids age 14 and under and there is no cost to participate,according to organizer Nickie Smith.

The Game and Fish Commission will be stocking the overflow pond with catfish for the event.

Fishing is a great way for parents to spend oneon-one time with their kids in God's great nature, Smith said.

"You know the saying: 'A bad day fishing is better than a good day at work,'" Smith said.

Fishing is a great way for families to have fun together, but it also provides an activity in which kids can get involved which may keep them out of trouble, he said.

The event will include games and a free lunch for children and parents. Prizes will be awarded in each of the four age categories, spanning from ages 1 to 14, for the largest fish, smallest fish and heaviest string of fish, but no child will go home empty handed, Smith said.

For families that do not have a fishing pole, Decatur's Iva Jane Peek Library offers fishing poles that can be checked out like books through an Arkansas Game and Fish Commission program. Those in need of fishing equipment can also contact Smith at 238-6147.

There are four rules for the derby.

◊All Arkansas Game and Fish Commission rules will be followed.

◊Each child must be accompanied by an adult. Adults are not required to have a fishing license to help a child with the derby, but if the adult or child continues fishing immediately after the derby is over a license will be required.

◊Only one rod or pole per child.

◊There is a limit of three fish per child in the overflow pond. Once the three fish are caught, the child can fish in the larger lake until the derby is over.

Registration will begin at 8:15. The derby will begin at 9 a.m. and last until noon.

Pre-registration forms are available at the Decatur Assembly of God Church and the Decatur General Store. For more information or to make a donation to the program, call Nickie Smith at 238-6147.

Sports, Pages 9 on 06/08/2011