Hundreds Expected At Free Kids Fishing Derby In Detroit

DETROIT (WWJ) - More than 500 youths are expected to become anglers on Saturday when the 16th annual Detroit Fishing Derby gets underway at Lake Frances in Palmer Park.

Spearheaded by Hook, Line and Sinker Inc. and co-sponsored by the Detroit Recreation Department, this free fishing derby will have two sessions in which kids ages 7-14 can participate.

• Morning session has 9 a.m. registration, with the event from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
• Afternoon session has 12 p.m. registration, with then event from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Participants must be accompanied by an adult, and prizes will be awarded. Kids should bring their own fishing equipment and live bait.

Based on the old adage of "teach a man how to fish," this event exposes kids to a sport that isn't commonly shown to inner-city youths, said founder Gary Williams.  Every year, Lake Frances is loaded up with approximately 3,000 Bluegill, and volunteers teach kids the simple steps of how to fish.

"Our volunteers are critical in teaching young people the basics, like how to hook and toss a line, and overall catching a fish," said Williams, who founded Hook, Line and Sinker Inc. in 1995. "We want to show kids how to engage in positive outdoor experiences, sports and recreational activities."

For more information, contact the recreation department at 313-224-1129.