PARSONS, W.Va.– The Monongahela National Forest and Horseshoe Leadership Center invite youngsters and their families to the 2017 Horseshoe Fishing Derby. This free annual event will take place on Saturday May 20 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Horseshoe Day Use area located near Lead Mine, West Virginia.
The derby is open to children 15 years old and younger who are accompanied by their parent or guardian. Participants do not need a fishing license, but must register for the event. Registration begins on-site at 8:30 a.m. Each age group, beginning with the youngest, will fish for 45 minutes. Family members may assist their children, but cannot fish for them. Anglers must bring their own fishing rod and reel. Single hooks with bait are allowed. Spinners and fly rods are not allowed. Kids get to keep the first two fish they catch.
“Fishing is a great way to get outside and enjoy the Monongahela National Forest,” said Troy Waskey, Cheat-Potomac District Ranger. “At the derby, we all enjoy helping youngsters learn to fish and then watching as they reel in their first catch. The Division of Natural Resources stocks some pretty big fish especially for the derby which can make for great bragging rights!”
Games, a casting contest, and pictures of youngsters with their fish will all be available during the derby. The Horseshoe Leadership Center will also be selling homemade items at their concession stand during the event. West Virginia state fishing regulations apply beginning at the close of the derby.
For more information, please call the Cheat-Potomac Ranger District at 304-478-2000 extension 0.