Children’s Fishing Derby set 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 2015 Annual Children’s Fishing Derby on Saturday, July 11, at the ponds located on the grounds of Maison d’Memoire (Ken and Lynn Guidry) at 8450 Roberts Cove Road (Hwy. 98) just northwest of Rayne.
The family-oriented event will be held between the hours of 8 a.m. and 12 noon. This catch and release fishing event is being 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.
Activities planned include 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 3-hour fishing derby with the assistance from members of ASL 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 and 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, ice chests were not allowed, but will be allowed this year with the following condition: they will be inspected prior to departure for reasons of controlling the catch and release element of the derby.
Make your plans to attend today by calling Suzette Leonards at 337-334-6682 or apply at Rayne City Hall.