When the Muskogee Morning Optimist Fishing Clinic and Derby starts, parents and kids will get a lesson in outdoor responsibility.
But Optimist Club President James Cotton doesn’t want to stop there.
“More than just teaching kids how to fish and how to respect the outdoors, we really want to promote the relationship between parents and kids, and between kids and the outdoors,” Cotton said.
The 28th annual fishing event starts at 9:15 a.m. Saturday. Kids from kindergarten through sixth grade will get the chance to learn the ins and outs of the sport. Instructors will give the kids tips and tricks, such as how to correctly tie a pole, and how to identify fish species.
Cotton said that the event will put kids in a fun environment with experts, supplying an excellent chance to learn.
“We’re providing the opportunity to come out and learn to fish, to experience it and to ask questions to the ODWC (Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation) people,” he said. “We’ll have prizes for first- through third-place finishers.”
Around 150 kids are expected for event. When families arrive, they can expect to find bait provided and beverages for the junior anglers.
In addition to instructors, the ODWC will provide a limited number of poles. Cotton said kids are encouraged to bring their own poles to ensure there are enough to go around.
Honor Heights pond was hit by a fish kill in July, but Muskogee Parks Superintendent Rick Ewing said it mainly affected bait fish. Cotton said that ODWC is stocking the pond to ensure there are plenty of fish available.
Reach Dylan Goforth at (918) 684-2903 or dgoforth@muskogeephoenix.com.
If you go
WHAT: Muskogee Morning Optimist 28th annual Free Fishing Clinic and Derby.
WHEN: Saturday. Open registration begins at 8:30 a.m. Derby beings at 9:15 a.m.
WHERE: Honor Heights Park pond.
COST: Free.
INFORMATION: (918) 684-6345.
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