04-03-2009, 11:10 AM
Spring in Marion County means it's time for the annual Lake Eaton Kids' Fishing Derby at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's (FWC) Ocala ConservationCenter and Youth Camp in the Ocala National Forest. The derby is free for children ages 5-12 and runs from 8:30 a.m. until noon on Saturday, April 11, 2009.
"Everything the kids need to fish, including cane poles, bait, instruction and help, will be provided," said Marty Hale, freshwater fisheries biological administrator for the FWC's Northeast Region. "We'll be stocking channel catfish raised at FWC's Florida Bass Conservation Center state hatchery, so there's a pretty good chance the fish will be biting."
"The kids will fish from the pier, so for safety and to avoid tangled lines, please leave rods and reels home," he added.
In addition to fishing, there is a casting contest and an all-time favorite of derby-goers called Bugs and Critters. In this creepy-crawly activity, kids get to wade into the lake with dip nets and scoop up fish, bugs and critters. An FWC biologist uses the experience to teach kids about the aquatic ecosystem. The kids will get wet, so they should bring a change of clothes.
After a morning of fishing and fun, children will be treated to lunch in the camp cafeteria. Also, each registered child who participates will receive the famous Lake Eaton Kids' Fishing Derby T-shirt, absolutely free.
Again this year, every child who signs up for and participates in the derby will get to take home a brand new rod and reel for free. These are courtesy of Fish Florida, a nonprofit organization that supports activities to teach children about fishing and aquatic habitats. Fish Florida's funding comes from the Fish Florida specialty license tag, featuring Florida's official saltwater fish, the sailfish. Purchasing one of these tags helps ensure that children will have an opportunity to participate in the wonderful world of fishing.
"Fishing is a real family event, and these derbies provide a great opportunity to introduce kids to this fun and wholesome activity," Hale said. "And who knows? After the adults see what fun it is, they too may decide to start fishing again."
Space is limited to 80 children, who must be registered in advance. To sign up, call the FWC's Ocala office at 352-732-1225 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., weekdays. The OcalaConservation Center is 8.5 miles north of State Road 40 off County Road 314 in the Ocala National Forest.
This is the 17th year the FWC and its local sponsors have offered this derby for children. The events would not be possible without the strong support of FWC partners, including Fish Florida, Pulte Homes, the U.S. Forest Service, Miller's Boating Center, Spruce Creek Fishing Club, Advantage Sports - Salt Springs, Marion County Parks and Recreation Department, Central Florida Dog Hunters Association and the many volunteers who spend their time helping the kids during these derbies.
Media Contact
Marty Hale or Joy Hill (352) 732-1225
"Everything the kids need to fish, including cane poles, bait, instruction and help, will be provided," said Marty Hale, freshwater fisheries biological administrator for the FWC's Northeast Region. "We'll be stocking channel catfish raised at FWC's Florida Bass Conservation Center state hatchery, so there's a pretty good chance the fish will be biting."
"The kids will fish from the pier, so for safety and to avoid tangled lines, please leave rods and reels home," he added.
In addition to fishing, there is a casting contest and an all-time favorite of derby-goers called Bugs and Critters. In this creepy-crawly activity, kids get to wade into the lake with dip nets and scoop up fish, bugs and critters. An FWC biologist uses the experience to teach kids about the aquatic ecosystem. The kids will get wet, so they should bring a change of clothes.
After a morning of fishing and fun, children will be treated to lunch in the camp cafeteria. Also, each registered child who participates will receive the famous Lake Eaton Kids' Fishing Derby T-shirt, absolutely free.
Again this year, every child who signs up for and participates in the derby will get to take home a brand new rod and reel for free. These are courtesy of Fish Florida, a nonprofit organization that supports activities to teach children about fishing and aquatic habitats. Fish Florida's funding comes from the Fish Florida specialty license tag, featuring Florida's official saltwater fish, the sailfish. Purchasing one of these tags helps ensure that children will have an opportunity to participate in the wonderful world of fishing.
"Fishing is a real family event, and these derbies provide a great opportunity to introduce kids to this fun and wholesome activity," Hale said. "And who knows? After the adults see what fun it is, they too may decide to start fishing again."
Space is limited to 80 children, who must be registered in advance. To sign up, call the FWC's Ocala office at 352-732-1225 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., weekdays. The OcalaConservation Center is 8.5 miles north of State Road 40 off County Road 314 in the Ocala National Forest.
This is the 17th year the FWC and its local sponsors have offered this derby for children. The events would not be possible without the strong support of FWC partners, including Fish Florida, Pulte Homes, the U.S. Forest Service, Miller's Boating Center, Spruce Creek Fishing Club, Advantage Sports - Salt Springs, Marion County Parks and Recreation Department, Central Florida Dog Hunters Association and the many volunteers who spend their time helping the kids during these derbies.
Media Contact
Marty Hale or Joy Hill (352) 732-1225