Kids Fun Fish Day

By Karlene Skretting
Westwind Weekly News
reporter.karlene@gmail.com

On Saturday, youth under 16 will have the opportunity to participate in a fun, free, educational fishing day at the Magrath Children’s Fish Pond. Registration begins at 8 a.m. with the event scheduled to run until 1 p.m.
For over 20 years, the Magrath Rod and Gun Club has hosted the annual event where experienced volunteers are on hand to teach the youth everything they need to know about fishing including: attaching the lure, baiting a hook, casting, reeling techniques and how to properly and safely remove a caught fish off the hook.
“It is a great event that exposes kids to fishing that may not otherwise have the opportunity,” said Ryan Beck, Magrath Rod and Gun Club president.
Beck has seen kids try it for the first time, at past fishing derby events, fall in love with the hobby and stick with it for life as they continue to introduce friends and family.
It is not uncommon for over a 100 children to attend the event.
Participants need to bring their own fishing rod and tackle.
There will be prizes up for grabs including rods, reels and tackle boxes. Every child will leave with a fun prize for participating too, said Beck.
Alberta Sport Fishing Regulations apply to the event. Albertans under 16 and over 65 do not need a licence to fish. Accompanying adults do not need a licence as long as they are not fishing. All ages are welcome to attend. Children must be accompanied by an adult chaperon.
The Magrath Rod and Gun Club will also have archery equipment on hand so that the youth can test their aim and try there hand shooting a bow.
Complimentary hotdogs and other snacks will be available while supplies last.
For more information or to have questions answered contact Clayton Gast at 403-593-6842.