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A beloved community tradition marked another year of outdoor fun and family bonding as the 37th Annual Catch A Rainbow Kids Fishing Derby reeled in a substantial crowd once again! Over 900 children participated in the event,
joined by family, friends, and volunteers for a turnout exceeding 3,000 attendees.
Young anglers lined the banks in hopes of hooking one of the many rainbow trout stocked for the event, with plenty of fish caught and even more smiles shared. Outdoor-themed prizes were awarded to each age group throughout the day, with trophies presented for the biggest fish caught. Prizes for the 5鈥�15-year-olds fishing included bicycles, sleeping bags, tackle boxes, flashlights, bug-catching kits, hammocks, etc.
The kiddie pool area saw over 200 eager participants ready to try their luck in 4 large tubs stocked with plenty of rainbow trout. With cane poles in hand, the youngest anglers of the day got their fair share of fishing fun before leaving with a prize of their own. In addition to the derby prizes, each child received a toy courtesy of the Christian Appalachian Project as they were exiting the event.
Families were treated to free hotdogs, chips, drinks, and snow cones, ensuring no one went hungry while enjoying the festivities. Scout the Trout, the event鈥檚 friendly mascot, also made a lively appearance, greeting children and posing for photos.
Beyond fishing, there was something for everyone: A variety of activities were available for those waiting their turn on Hatchery Creek including archery hosted by Ducks Unlimited, face painting and temporary tattoos, and self-guided tours of the Visitor Center exhibits and hatchery raceways.
What makes this event even more special is the multi-generational tradition it has become. Many of the derby's attendees are parents and grandparents who once fished the same waters as children. One family in attendance informed staff this was their 20th fishing derby; first bringing their children, now fishing with their grandchildren! hard work and generosity make the derby a highlight of the year for so many families.
As the sun set on another successful derby, kids left with prizes in hand, fish tales to tell, and dreams of casting their lines again next year!
This event wouldn鈥檛 be possible without the incredible support of so many sponsors and the dedicated Friends of Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery, Inc. group, whose hard work and generosity ensures that this free event continues to remain a highlight of the year for so many families.
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