PINEVILLE – With summer just around the corner, Kisatchie National Forest (KNF) invites families to explore the state’s only national forest by participating in the annual youth fishing derbies held at each ranger district of the KNF.

The derbies are free, age requirements vary from district to district. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Although the derbies are free some districts ask that participants register. See the list below for specific times for each derby:

Calcasieu District:

Evangeline Unit – May 26 - Valentine Lake Recreation Area – 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Vernon Unit – June 9 - Fullerton Lake Recreation Area – 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.

For more information call (318) 793 - 9427

Caney District:

May 26 – Corney Lake – 9 a.m.to 11 a.m.

For more information call (318) 927 - 2061

Catahoula District:

May 26 – Stuart Lake – 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

For more information call (318) 765 – 3554

Kisatchie District:

June 9 – Anderson Pond – 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

For more information call (318) 472-1840

Winn District:

June 2 – Bombing Range Pond – 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

For more information call (318) 628-4664

Children need to bring a fishing pole and a desire to catch some fish. Prizes will be given to all participants.

To learn more about the annual youth fishing derbies you can visit the Kisatchie National Forest website www.fs.usda.gov/kisatchie/ or contact the individual district ranger office or the supervisor’s office at (318) 473-7160.