[ad_1]Stock photoThe Biggest Trout and Biggest Catfish are just a couple of the trophies being handed out, along with other traditional prizes. It's free to join and suitable for all ages, running until 1:00 pm. TILLSONBURG - This morning kicks off the Family Fishing Derby in Tillsonburg. This is the fifth year that Mike and Rosemary Dean have been organizing this event. Mike mentioned that folks really love coming out to fish. "I think people enjoy it so much is because it doesn't cost anything. I don't want you to have to spend any money, I just want you to be able to come out with your children and enjoy the day fishing on the lake, right? I did it with my kids, I've done it with my grandkids. We've been going to the event when it was under different names for the last 30 years so we hope that it starts a tradition where you do it with your kids, and they do it with their kids, and it's just a day to get to be with your child, right?" For five years now, Mike and Rosemary have organized this event, getting assistance from various volunteers. The derby has been happening for over 30 years and was previously run by different service clubs before Mike and Rosemary took charge in 2014. They've seen steady growth over the years, with hopes of attracting over 300 participants this time around. Last year's turnout was 267 attendees. He emphasizes that it's all about bringing families together. "Our goal is just to get guardians, grandparents and parents together with their children and spend some quality time. Put that i Pad down, put that phone down and just spend some time with family, right? That's the only thing that we really want and you can learn a little bit about nature." The derby coincides with a week-long free fishing initiative across the province, allowing everyone to fish without needing a license. This promotion wraps up tomorrow. The event is entirely free for all ages and will feature a draw for kayaks along with various other prizes. Trophies will be awarded for both the Biggest Trout and Biggest Catfish caught. No registration fee is needed; however, participants must sign a liability form. The Tillsonburg Family Fishing Derby takes place at Lake Lisgar today until 1:00 pm.Source link
