Kid Fish event returns to Lake Fork after COVID hiatus

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The annual Wood County Kid Fish is back on track after it was canceled by COVID-19 last year. Wood County Sheriff Kelly Cole announced the popular kid’s event is ready to go Saturday, June 5. 

It will again be held at the Sabine River Authority (SRA) headquarters from 8 a.m. to noon. The SRA is located just off FM 288 between Highways 154 and 182 just east of the Lake Fork Dam.

The tournament not only promotes fishing as a sport, it also gives children who are less fortunate an opportunity to become involved. This tournament teaches healthy hobbies, builds confidence in youth and promotes good sportsmanship. 

Items that are provided to families who attend include, but are not limited to, a free rod and reel, free t-shirt, food and drinks. The catch-and-release tournament provides the child a chance to win a trophy as well as a traveling trophy for the child who catches the biggest fish of the day. The day is concluded with a drawing for a chance to win one of 16 bicycles and helmets.  

In the past young anglers caught bass, crappie, catfish and perch, and a few big turtles have been pulled ashore, too. The number of fishermen has ranged from 200 to 300 youngsters.

It is a great time for the entire family to get out and go to the lake to spend time together.

Registration is free and a meal is provided during the tournament. It is a “catch and release tournament” so participants and/or family members are encouraged to bring cameras or use their cell phones to photograph the youngsters and their catches. Prizes will be given for the largest fish in each category and age group.

Contestants need to be 16 years of age or younger, and children under age seven must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. All contestants need to be registered by the 8 a.m. start time. All fish will need to be caught on a pole or rod and reel. Fish caught any other way will not be accepted and will be subject to disqualification.

All contestants should furnish a rod and reel, but if not able to do so, one will be provided. The fish must be brought to the weigh station in the weigh bags provided and must be brought in by the person who caught it. Fish can be brought at any time after the 8 a.m. start time with the final weigh-in at noon.

The tournament has been successful in the past due to volunteers and sponsors who join with the Wood County Sheriff’s Dept., SRA and Texas Parks and Wildlife.

Registration and sponsorship forms can be online at mywoodcounty.com/page/So_Kid_Fish.  For further information call the sheriff’s office at 903-763-2201.