Shawnee National Forest to host annual youth fishing derby

HARRISBURG, Ill. (KFVS) - The Shawnee National Forest will host the annual children’s fishing derby later this month.

According to organizers, this year’s derby will be held on Saturday, May 18 at Oakwood Bottoms Interpretive Site in Grand Tower, Illinois.

This free event is open to children ages five to 15, accompanied by an adult.

No fishing license is required and some bait will be provided. Participants are encouraged to bring their own equipment and bait if they have it.

There will also be prizes awarded in various categories.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the fishing derby will start at 8:30 a.m. Lunch will be provided.

According to organizers, this event is made possible by the Friends of the Shawnee National Forest, Friends of Turkey Bayou, Future Angler Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, National Wild Turkey Federation, Graphics Galore, Timberline and other local businesses.

For more information, please contact the Hidden Springs Ranger Station at (618) 658-2111 or visit www.fs.usda.gov/shawnee.