The Glacier Lakes Bass Club of Michigan held its Second Annual Kids Fishing Derby, Aug. 20, 2011, at W.J. Hayes State Park on Wamplers Lake. Twenty-three children, ranging from ages 3 to 14, participated in the derby.
Club members took the youth out for a three-hour fishing event, fishing for prizes in categories for the biggest bass, biggest panfish and biggest trash fish. Entries were brought in for all three categories, with every boat catching fish.
Parents were encouraged to spend time fishing with their children, and the club took this opportunity to educate parents and children on the art of catching fish. After the weigh-in, participants enjoyed a family-style cookout and CastingKids event.
All youth participants received a fishing rod, provided by Cabela’s, as well as a backpack filled with plastic worms, hook, sinkers, bobbers, candy, fishing cap and a fishing lure key chain.
“The goal of the Glacier Lakes Bass Club was to educate children about fishing, boat safety and sportsmanship, as well as get them excited to be outdoors and in the big bass boats,” said Rodney DeGrie. “Club members enjoyed the day just as much as the kids and their parents.”
In all, 16 members volunteered their time, an average of five hours per person.
This article is part of the Conservation Education segment of the larger report, 2011 Annual Achievements in B.A.S.S. Conservation.