This news item expired on Saturday, May 21, 2022 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
It's o-fish-ial: The grand prize for the Spring Kids Fishing Tournament at Lake Julian is a Move Angler kayak. So get your rods and reels ready. Fishing crosses all gender, cultural, and economic lines. For some, it’s about catching the biggest fish, for others it’s the quantity. The adrenaline rush and pride when a line is pulled in is the same either way.
Buncombe County Recreation Services hosts its next kids fishing tournament at Lake Julian Park (37 Lake Julian Road in Arden) on Saturday, May 21.
The tournament, named one of the Best Kids Fishing Tournaments in the U.S., is open to anyone 15 years old or younger. Competitors are divided into age groups with prizes in each for Biggest Fish, Smallest Fish, and Most Fish Caught. The grand prize regardless of age is a Move Angler kayak from Jonathan Wicks with Waterways and Feelfree Kayaks. The second-place prize is a guided kayak fishing trip with Found 'Em Kayak Fishing Guides' Craig Gorton
“Fishing builds confidence, improves coordination, teaches patience, and encourages an appreciation of nature,” said Mac Stanley, Outdoors Coordinator for Buncombe County Recreation Services. “This tournament is a great way to introduce our younger residents to healthier lifestyles and decrease screen time – at least for a little while.”
As a catch and release tournament, fish are released back into the lake after they have been measured. Registration includes a bucket, bait, snacks, and drinks, and an I Heart Parks sports bottle. Participants bring their own poles.
Fishing commences at 8:30 a.m. and ends promptly at 11:30 a.m. No fishing license is required for North Carolina residents under 16 years old. No boat fishing is allowed during the tournament.
Click here to pre-register, or you can register on-site the day of the event. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. For additional information email parks@buncombecounty.org.
What: Spring Kids Fishing Tournament at Lake Julian Park
When: Saturday, May 21 from 8:30-11:30 a.m.
Where: Lake Julian Park - 37 Lake Julian Road
Registration fee: $10. Register here.