The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is hosting a youth freshwater fishing derby at the Tenoroc Fish Management Area in Lakeland. The event will take place on Saturday, April 5, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pre-registration began on March 1 and is required for participation. A fishing license is not necessary as the event coincides with a state-designated license-free freshwater fishing weekend.
The derby will be held at Derby Lake Recreational Facility, a 16-acre former phosphate pit stocked with various freshwater sport fish and catfish. The lake features seven fishing piers and a 200-foot boardwalk accessible to anglers of all abilities.
Activities for youth participants include a casting contest, exhibitors, and other outdoor events. Publix Supermarkets and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida will provide a free lunch. Bait and a limited number of loaner rods and reels are available at no cost for children aged 15 and younger. A parent or guardian must accompany all youth participants.
To pre-register, interested parties can contact the FWC at 863-648-3200 from Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., with registration closing on Friday, April 4, at 5 p.m.
For more information on freshwater fishing, individuals can visit the FWC Freshwater Fishing webpage at MyFWC.com or call the FWC’s Lakeland office at the provided number.
