Something fishy is going on at Camp Jordan this weekend.
The East Ridge Optimist Club/Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency Kids' Fishing Rodeo will again be held at Dickert's Pond at Camp Jordan Park on Saturday.
All kids old enough to hold a fishing pole that are accompanied by an adult are invited to fish for free from 9 a.m. until noon on Saturday. Registration for the Fishing Rodeo will begin at 8:30 a.m.
The East Ridge Optimist Club will offer fishing, prizes, refreshments, lunch and fun for all in the area who attend.
East Ridge Parks and Recreation Director Stump Martin said the fishing rodeo starts off a huge weekend at Camp Jordan Park.
"It's a busy weekend with the Scenic City Cup Soccer Tournament bringing in more than 150 teams, a Nations Baseball State Tournament and the Fishing Rodeo," Mr. Martin said. "I loved the Fishing Rodeo last May. We had 79 youngsters and many of them caught fish."
East Ridge Vice Mayor Jim Bethune, who is an Optimist Club member, said its one of his favorite days of the year.
"Every child is invited to fish and have fun," Mr. Bethune said. "This day is all about the kids and its free."
Mr. Martin said the Optimist Club stepped in last spring and took over the annual fishing day previously sponsored by the Tennessee Aquarium.
"It doesn't get any better than a child being able to fish with a parent or guardian and enjoying the quality of time together at a beautiful place like Dickert's Pond," Mr. Martin said. "I still remember the first fish I ever caught and each year the size of it gets bigger."
The TWRA and East Ridge Parks and Recreation are stocking the pond with catfish and the TWRA officers will again assist in running the event.
"Hamilton County Wildlife Officer Joe McSpadden and his fellow TWRA officers do an excellent job of helping to make this a fun and safe event," Mr. Martin said. "We can't think them enough for their professional assistance."
Here's more on the East Ridge Optimist Club/Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency Kids' Fishing Rodeo:
WHERE: Dickert's Pond Camp Jordan Park I-75, Exit 1
WHEN: May 3, 2013 Registration 8:30 AM and fishing starts at 9:00
WHAT: Fishing Rodeo for kids old enough to hold a pole.
WHO: All kids up to 14-years-old who want to fish accompanied by an adult
COST: Free
MORE INFO: 423 463-4391