Public invited to Annual Youth Fishing Derby

The Shawnee National Forest invites the public to attend the annual children’s fishing derby May 16 at Oakwood Bottoms Interpretive Site in Grand Tower.

This is a free event, open to children ages five to 15; children must be 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. Prizes will be awarded in various categories.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. Participants begin fishing at 8:30 a.m., and lunch will be provided. The event will be held rain or shine.

This event is made possible by the Friends of the Shawnee National Forest, Friends of Turkey Bayou, Wildlife Forever, Ducks Unlimited, National Wild Turkey Federation, Little Egypt Longbeards Chapter NWTF, Graphics Galore, Timberline, Illinois Extension, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Corp of Engineers-Rend Lake and other local businesses.

For more information, contact the Mississippi Bluffs Ranger Station at 618-833-8576.