SAVANNAH, Ga. – The ever-popular Kids’ Fishing Derby celebrates its 30th year April 21 at the Blue Hole Recreation Area on Russell Lake in Calhoun Falls, South Carolina. Participants must be 15 years old or younger to fish in the netted cove purposefully stocked with fish for the derby.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Richard B. Russell Project Office; South Carolina Department of Natural Resources; Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Lake Russell Recreation and Tourism Coalition host this event. Blue Hole Recreation Area is located on Hwy. 81 in Calhoun Falls, South Carolina.
Registration the day of the event begins at 7 a.m. with fishing hours from 8 – 11 a.m. followed by a water safety program, prize giveaways and lunch. The Lake Russell Recreation and Tourism Coalition will provide lunch (sandwich, chips, drink, and dessert) for all participants 15 years old and younger. Attendees 16 or older may purchase a lunch for $5 per person (subject to availability).
“The fishing derby always proves to be a family-fun day,” Annette Dotson, a park ranger at Russell Lake, said. “The shoreline fills up fast every year.”
Participants may preregister online at www.dnr.sc.gov/aquaticed/rodeos. “You may also preregister by mailing or calling in the name and address of each participant (15 and under), and total number in your party,” Dotson said. “This will greatly help in determining approximately how many people attend.”
Mail the registration form to: Richard B. Russell Lake, Attn: Annette Dotson, 4144 Russell Dam Drive, Elberton, GA 30635. Fax to: 706-213-3440. Call: 706-213-3400 or 800-944-7207 ext. 3406. Email: Annette.r.dotson@usace.army.mil
Parents, guardians and older family members can fish outside the netted cove during the Kid’s Fishing Derby with a Georgia or South Carolina fishing license. Youth 15 and younger do not need a fishing license. Restrooms and drinking water will be available for everyone but attendees should bring their own chair, fishing gear, sunscreen. “Life jackets are highly recommended for children and everyone who will be near the water,” Dotson said.
For additional information, or to learn how to make a donation, call Dotson toll free at 800-944-7207 or 706‑213‑3406.