The Event Details
The annual Kids Fishing Derby is set to take place on Saturday, May 10 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Sikeston Sports Complex Lake. Registration will begin at 8 a.m. at Pavilion 8. The event is open to all children ages 15 and under.
- There are three divisions: 5 and under, 6 to 10, and 11 to 15.
- There is no charge for the event.
The Purpose and Benefits of the Event
According to JT Jones, recreation coordinator, the event is a popular annual event in the community that brings together families and children to engage in a fun and interactive activity. “It’s a kid/family event that the community really enjoys,” Jones said. “It’s a good time to get out and engage in the community and have fun.”
The Missouri Department of Conservation will be present at the event, providing assistance and guidance to families on how to use the fishing gear and catch fish.
“Children and families will need to bring their fishing bait, fishing poles and things like that,”
Jones said.
The Fishery and the Stocking Process
Salvador Mondragon, conservation agent, explained that the purpose of the fishing derby is to introduce children to nature.
| Fish Species | Number of Fish | Weight per Fish |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 10 | 2 pounds |
| Blue Gill | 20 | 1 pound |
| Channel Catfish | 300 | 1-1/2 pounds |
| Crappie | 10 | 1 pound |
| Redear Sunfish | 20 | 1/2 pound |
The Event Day Experience
On the day of the event, conservation agents will be present to assist families with their fishing gear and provide information on the fishery. “We will also be the ones to measure the fish at the end of the event,” Mondragon said. Highlights of the event will include:
- Three divisions: 5 and under, 6 to 10, and 11 to 15.
- No charge for the event.
- Missouri Department of Conservation presence and assistance.
- Prize giveaways for the most weighed-in fish and longest fish.
- Opportunity to stock your own fishing gear and bait.
Get Involved and Support the Event
For any questions about the event, email JT Jones at Jjones@sikeston.org. You can also find more information on the Sikeston Parks and Recreation website.
