by Dave Delgado

Guam - The annual kids fishing derby is scheduled for June 18 at the Asan War in the Pacific Park. Kids ages 7-12 can sign up free of charge on a first come first, serve basis. There will be prizes up for grabs for those who participate in the fishing derby.

Coordinator Brent Tibbetts told KUAM Sports, "The kids fishing derby for 2011, the first derby will be taking place on Saturday. It will be on Saturday from 8am to 10am is the fishing. You can sign up for the kids fishing derby at the Department of Agriculture in Mangilao, the number is 735-3955 or 56 are the numbers you can call for information or for registration. It is for kid's ages 7-12 and it's totally free, everybody that competes wins a prize. We are competing for 3 categories, longest fish, most fish and longest triggerfish. There will be trophies and prizes for those 3 categories in addition. Again if you would like to sign up or more information about it contact the Department of Agriculture at735-3955 or 56."

The fishing derby will teach kids the proper way of knot tying and casting and also encourage them to get involved with the sport as a recreational activity. The purpose of the derby is to also teach them environmental and conservation ethics while fishing.

Tibbetts said, "It's a good idea to bring some sun block and something to drink; we will be providing food and drink for all the kids and the families. But some sun block is a good idea and a band-aid; we'll have first aid kits and medical personnel there as well. Bring some extra hooks and fishing tackle, bring some bait. We bring a little bit of bait to help out but we like to ask the participants to bring their own bait or lures or whatever they use to try and catch fish. Maybe a chair or umbrella or something because it usually gets pretty sunny and hot down there towards the end of the day. Bring your brothers and sisters and anyone else who wants to fish or learn how to fish.

"It is a great family event all day totally free and we encourage everyone to come down and if you are ages 7-12 come down and participate."