SAVANNAH, Ga. - Save the date! The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Savannah District, in partnership with several community organizations, will host the 26th Annual Kid's Fishing Derby April 26 at Richard B. Russell Lake.
This year's event will take place at the Blue Hole Recreation Area, located on Highway 81 in Calhoun Falls, S.C. Gates open at 7 a.m., fishing hours are from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. After fishing, local safety officials will provide an interactive water safety presentation for kids and parents.
"The Annual Kid's Fishing Derby and Water Safety Program is a fun, family-friendly event that has been going on in our community for 26 years now," said Zachary Baldwin, Corps natural resource specialist and event coordinator. "We are pleased to partner with the Georgia and South Carolina Departments of Natural Resources, the Lake Russell Recreation and Tourism Coalition, and countless other donors and volunteers to make it happen. This event is an effective way to bring people together and to get children excited about the great outdoors. It also helps us get the word out about water safety and the importance of wearing a life jacket."
Children ages 15 and under will have a designated time slot to fish for catfish inside a heavily-stocked kid's fishing area. Anyone age 16 and older may fish outside the designated kid's area but must have a valid South Carolina or resident-Georgia fishing license. Kids 15 and under do not need a fishing license.
All participants should bring their own fishing gear, bait, sunscreen, chairs, drinks, snacks and protective gear. Life jackets are highly recommended for anyone who will be near the water, especially for children and weak swimmers. Water and restrooms will be provided. No alcoholic beverages permitted.
Lunch will be provided courtesy of the Lake Russell Recreation and Tourism Coalition, a committee of the Calhoun Falls Chamber of Commerce. Lunch is free of charge for kids 15 and under. Attendees ages 16 and older may purchase a hot dog lunch for $2 each (subject to availability).
Attendees should pre-register online at www.dnr.sc.gov/aquaticed/rodeos. Additional information about this event, as well as other kids fishing events around South Carolina, can also be found at this site. Attendees may also pre-register by calling the Russell Project Office at 800-944-7207 or the S.C. Department of Natural Resources Aquatic Education office at 803-737-8483.
Please note the event may be delayed or cancelled due to severe weather.
For more information about the event or to volunteer, please call the Russell Project Office at 800-944-7207 or 706-213-3407.
Directions to Blue Hole Recreation Area: From Calhoun Falls, head north on N Calhoun Street / S.C. Hwy 81 towards Lowndesville. Travel approximately 100 feet outside of town and turn left onto Filter Plant Road and then immediately turn right onto Blue Hole Road. Latitude/Longitude: 34.09683, -82.60599
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