Natchitoches Fish Hatchery Fishing Derby

Open House and Fishing Derby 
The day's events will include a fishing derby, casting contest, pet adoption day, birds of prey from the Walter B. Jacob's Nature Park, games for the kids, and Cane River Waterway Commission Boating Safety activities.
"The Open House and Fishing Derby are a great opportunity for children and adults alike to become involved in an outdoor activity such as fishing or boating," said Tony Brady, a biologist and event coordinator with the Fish Hatchery.

The fishing derby begins at 8:30 am and ends at 10:30 am.  Prizes will be awarded for four age groups:  2-5, 6-8, 9-12, and 13-15.  Prizes given for age groups 2-5, 6-8, and 9-12 will include total weight (1st, 2nd, 3rd), biggest fish, and smallest fish.  Prizes for the 13-15 year olds will be sponsored this year by John Torrent State Farm Insurance and Ban of Montgomery.  Prizes for this age group will be given to total weight (1st, 2nd, 3rd) and for Biggest Fish (1st, 2nd, 3rd).  In addition to the derby contest the Provencal Bass Club will host the Flip, Pitch and Cast Contest for two age groups (7-10 and 11-14) with prizes for 1st, 2nd, & 3rd in each age group.   Prizes will be based on points earned during the contest.  The Flip, Pitch and Cast Contest is scheduled from 9 am-11am.  Prizes for the derby and the casting contest will be awarded around 11:30 am.

The annual event is part of National Fishing and Boating Week (NFBW), an annual national celebration of fishing and boating coordinated by the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF).  The hatchery's event corresponds with the State of Louisiana's Free Fishing Days of June 1-2.

The hatchery's non-profit support group, F.I.S.H. - Friends in Support of the Hatchery, is helping host this year's event.