Hooked On Fishing International
Kit Has Everything Needed For Groups To Put On A Fishing Derby For Kids
The all-inclusive package comes with prizes, two rods, reels, tackle boxes, camera and more. Go to www.kids-fishing.com, then to "Organize a Fishing Derby"

by Gordon Holland

08/31/2001 - KETCHUM, OK .... Adult groups looking for healthy activities for young people now can order a fishing derby kit that includes everything from entry forms to prizes.

"All you have to do is add kids and a fishing pond," said Gordon Holland, executive director of Hooked on Fishing International (HOFI), the Oklahoma organization that every year sanctions more than 700 Kids All-American Fishing Derbies in all 50 states. The HOFI web site, www.kids-fishing.com, proudly notes that it is the "Home of the World's Largest Kids' Fishing Program."

Here's a partial list of the things that organizations receive with the kit: two rods and reels, tackle box, lures, line, sinkers, hooks, knot-tying cards, name tags, camera, derby instruction booklet, posters, banner, entry forms, plastic bags, decals and name tags.

Order online

Holland said the quickest way to get all the information is via the HOFI web site - www.kids-fishing.com. Click on "Organize a Fishing Derby." Here the derby program is explained and organizations can actually complete and submit an online request for an application. HOFI charges a modest fee for the fishing derby kit based on the anticipated number of children who will be participating in the proposed derby.

Holland said organizations also can get information by email at info@kids-fishing.com or in writing, addressing the envelope to Hooked On Fishing International, P O Box 660, Ketchum, OK 74349. Requests must be received before December 1, 2001 for hosting 2002 events.

Any qualified organization with an interest in helping youth may participate, Holland said. In previous years host organizations have included public and private agencies including state fish and game departments, the U.S. Forest Service, parks and recreation departments, chambers of commerce, YMCAs, fishing clubs, scouting groups, and civic and service organizations such as the Optimists, Lions, Kiwanis, and Elks.

"Thank you for offering this very well-received program," wrote K. Z. of the Atlantic county Department of Public Works in Mays Landing, N. J. "This was the first year I have conducted a derby and I must admit it was one of the easiest programs I have ever run."

The 2002 season of the Kids All-American Fishing Derby will mark the sixteenth year that Hooked on Fishing International has sanctioned the celebrated youth program with the support of America's top companies, led by title sponsor Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Sponsoring brands include Pepsi, Frito-Lay, Southwest Airlines, Fujifilm, Dubble Bubble Bubble Gum, Laker by Jadico, Trilene, Water Gremlin, Eagle Claw, Zebco, Berkley Powerbait, FishingWorld.com, and G3 Boats.

Holland predicts the 2002 derby season will eclipse the mark of 2001 of more than 700 fishing derbies in all 50 states. Holland said Hooked on Fishing International needs organizations and their volunteers to organize and staff derbies in their communities, helping to bring kids and fish together.