Kids Fishing Day Is June 9

"When you get a four- or fiveyear old with a fish in a bucket, it's really a lot of fun," said organizer Louie Colegrove in anticipation of the 11th Annual Kids Fishing Day, which takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 9, at Castle Rock Ponds on the Hiawatha National Forest. No fishing license is required.

Kids Fishing Day is free of charge and focuses on anglers up to 16 years old. Young children must be accompanied by an adult.

This year, organizers will give out a limited number of free admission tickets to Thunder Falls Family Water Park in Mackinaw City. Free hot dogs and drinks will also be available, and participants can take part in a free raffle. More than 100 prizes will be given out throughout the day, including 50 fishing rods and reels.

Castle Rock Ponds is located two miles west of I-75 on Castle Rock Road. To get there, take Castle Rock exit, north of St. Ignace, and follow signs pointing out the event, Mr. Colegrove said.

Anglers will find 10- to 14-inch rainbow trout swimming in a 1,500-gallon holding tank, provided by the St. Ignace Fire Department. Groups of four young anglers at a time will fish in the tank, in five-minute intervals. When trout are caught, anglers will transport them in a bucket to one of the area's ponds for release.

About one third of the trout never bite, Mr. Colegrove explained, so toward the end of the event, kids are allowed to net the hold-outs.

"Kids practically climb into the tank," he said, so supervisors keep a close eye on the young anglers. "It's really a good time."

Last year, approximately 340 people took part, a slightly lower turnout than in years past, owing to other events in the area that day, Mr. Colegrove said.

Anglers are not restricted to fishing in the tank. Those seeking a greater challenge can try their luck from the shores of the stocked trout ponds.

Fishing gear will be available to use, but supplies are limited, so families are encouraged to bring their own rods, bait, and tackle.

The event is organized by the Straits Area Sportsmens Club, in association with the U.S. Forest Service. It is also sponsored by the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, Safari Club International, and the Michigan State University 4-H Youth Program.