Annual Commissioners Fishing Derby returns for the 26th year

The Pike County Board of Commissioners recently announced the return of the annual Commissioners Fishing Derby, back for its 26th year. This event will take place rain or shine on April 20, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Lily Pond on Schocopee Road.

Fishing poles, tackle boxes and various baits, bobbers, and lures will be awarded to the largest trout caught among each age group. The derby is open to children 15 and under.

There is no fee to participate. Each child must have their own registration form signed by a parent or guardian to participate. Paper registration forms will be distributed within the school districts, but you may also register online at pikepa.org/fishingderby. On derby day, please visit the cabin to check in or submit your paper registration form on arrival.

Lily Pond will be stocked with a combination of rainbow, brown, golden and brook trout for the derby. Stocking of the pond will take place at 7 a.m. on derby day. All are welcome to come to help!

To ensure a fun and safe event for all, a few rules will be enforced:

- PA fishing laws and regulations will apply

- Participants must be accompanied by an adult

- Fishing is permitted anywhere on the pond

- Participants must provide their own tackle and bait

- Participants must only use one fishing pole

- Each participant is allowed only one trout to be measured for the contest

- Parents, please remember this event is for the children

Refreshments will be available for purchase provided by the Friends of Warrior Football. For those unfamiliar with Lily Pond, signs will be posted directing participants to the pond.

There are still sponsorship opportunities for this year’s derby. Interested parties should contact the Pike County Commissioners Office at (570) 296-7613.