Kids, grab your lucky fishing rod and get ready to reel in a “lunker” at the annual Jr. Fishing Fest at DeGray Lake Resort State Park on Saturday, June 18. This youth fishing derby is co-sponsored by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and DeGray Lake Resort State Park and is open to youngsters 5-12 years old.

Golf course pond #7 will be stocked with hundreds of catfish available for catching from 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

First through fifth place trophies will be awarded for heaviest stringer in two age groups (5-8 year olds and 9-12 year olds) plus there will be a variety of door prizes given away all morning. Trophies will be awarded at 12:15 p.m. and winners must be present to collect awards.

Participants are responsible for bringing their own bait and tackle and are asked to use only one fishing pole each.

The purpose of this derby is to encourage young people to learn about and enjoy the sport of fishing so it is important that only the young people fish. Adults can help but are asked not to do the actual fishing.

Parking will be on the road across from the horse stable. Shade around the pond is limited so feel free to bring umbrellas or tarps along with your own snacks and refreshments to help you keep cool.

The Jr. Fishing Fest is the first of two fishing derbies to be held at DeGray Lake Resort State Park this year. The second one will be the Hook, Line and Sinker Derby on Sept. 11th, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. This will be the only derby open to all ages. It’s co-sponsored by DeGray Lake Resort State Park, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and Southern Bancorp.

DeGray Lake Resort State Park is located on Hwy 7 just 6 miles north of I-30, exit 78, near Arkadelphia or 25 miles south of Hot Springs. For more information please call (501) 865-5810 or email degraylakeresort@arkansas.com.