FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. — Fort Leonard Wood’s Youth Catfish Derby is scheduled to take place from 9 a.m. to noon June 8 at the pond at Training Area 228, off FLW 38.
According to John Brant, fisheries biologist with the Directorate of Public Works’ Natural Resources Branch, the free event is open to youth anglers, ages 15 and younger — all participants need to be accompanied by an adult — and registration starts at 8:30 a.m.
Events like this offer opportunities to introduce children to the outdoors and build a “connection” with nature, Brant said.
“A personal connection with the outdoors is important, and catching catfish is a great way to begin that connection,” he said.
As in years past, Brant said the pond has been stocked with 400 additional catfish for the derby, and some of those fish will have a tag that can be turned in for a prize. Loaner equipment will be available as well, on a first come, first served basis.
Additionally, the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation’s Outdoor Adventure Center will once again be on hand to provide hotdogs and drinks, said Nia Dickinson, FMWR’s Marketing manager.
“This is an event our team looks forward to every year,” Dickinson said.
Brant said the goal of the derby is not to make every participant an avid angler.
“But we hope to provide the opportunity for a new outdoor activity,” he said. “I hope people and youth go home thinking (about how much) they enjoyed their time in nature and consider their own future outings.”
Call 573.596.4223 for more information.
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