Children’s Fishing Derby slated in Rayne

The City of Rayne is being joined by community partners, The Acadiana Sportman’s League, Rayne Lions Club and Maison d’Memoire, to host the annual Children’s Fishing Derby slated Saturday, June 7, 2014.  

The event will take place between the hours of 8 a.m. and 12 noon at the ponds located on the grounds of Maison d’Memoire (Ken & Lynn Guidry) at 8450 Roberts Cove Road (Hwy. 98) just northwest of Rayne.

The catch and release fishing event is held for children up to 15 years of age with category breakdowns as follows: 5 years and under, 6 to 8 years, 9 to 12 years, 13 to 15 years, and special needs.  

Children must be accompanied by an adult for the entire day with a number of activities planned, including a short briefing on the rules and guidelines for the day’s activities, an educational packet containing information on tying a knot, baiting a hook, identification of fish, general fishing safety, and an approximate three-hour fishing derby with the assistance from members of Acadiana Sportsman League and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.  

First Aid stations will be onsite tentatively staffed by members of the Rayne Volunteer Fire Department’s First Responder Team.

Prizes awarded at the end of the fishing tournament will include: Largest fish in each age category; Most fish caught in each age category. 

A light lunch of hot dogs and cold drinks will be available with the assistance of the Rayne Lions Club to those enjoying the day’s activities.

Participants must bring their own fishing poles and are encouraged to bring suntan lotion, bug repellant, lawn chairs and hats for protection from the sun. 

In the past icechests were not allowed, but will be allowed this year with the following condition: will be inspected prior to being allowed to leave for reasons of controlling the catch and release element of this derby.

While there is no fee to fish, pre-registration is a MUST!  The deadline to register is Friday, May 30th.  When calling, parents will need to have their child(ren)’s name, age and t-shirt size.  Please make a special note that participants will not be allowed into the fishing area prior to 8 a.m. out of respect to patrons staying at Maison de Memoire.  

Make your plans to attend today by calling Suzette Leonards at 337-334-6682 or stop by Rayne City Hall.