Kids' Fishing Derby is this weekend

GARDNERVILLE - It will be a hot time for the 11th annual Kids' Fishing Derby 2000 this weekend at Lampe Park, with temperatures predicted in the low 90s.

Workers from the Lahontan National Fish Hatchery dropped 6,500 fish into the ponds at the park.

"These fish are probably twice the size of the ones we had last year," said hatchery motor vehicle operator Ed Kelly.

About 2,400 children participated in last year's derby, pulling virtually all the fish stocked on Friday.

Many large fish were stocked along with the usual, smaller trout provided by the hatchery.

"This event is free, just bring your pole. We supply the tackle and bait. We even have loaner poles available," said Kim McQueary, co-president of this year's derby.

"We put 6,500 fish in Lampe Park. We plan on having 2,400 kids fish during the two-day period. Each child may catch two fish, and everyone gets a prize. We tagged 400 big fish, which are worth special prizes such as poles, tackle boxes, sleeping bags, etc."

The derby is free to kids ages 3 years to 12 years, but they must be pre-registered. Others are welcome to watch. Kids who haven't signed up may fish after 3:30 p.m. Sunday. Only kids 12 and under or youths 13-16 with a Nevada fishing license may fish at the time - no seniors, no adults allowed.

Volunteers are always needed for river help, baiting table, fish cleaning, food concession and ticket takers.

There is a special time slot today at 4 p.m. for kids with special needs, handicaps or who are foster children.

"This gives them a one-on-one time with volunteers," said McQueary.

"We are able to put on this derby every year thanks to the volunteers and the donations we receive throughout the community," McQueary said.