Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge's Kids Fishing Derby activities included a toddler tank for the youngest of anglers. - Photo by Greg Conover

One of the kids attending the event visits the toddler tent - Photo by Greg Conover

Carterville FRO, Illinois DNR, and other partners teamed with Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge  to host the 33^rd Annual Kid’s Fishing Derby at Crab Orchard Lake. 

The event enjoyed greater attendance than ever, with more than 500 people attending this family event. Of that number attending, 326 children ages 12 and under registered for the event and more than 50 volunteers assisted.

Carterville FRO stocked a 1,000-gallon water tank with fish captured from Crab Orchard Lake for the event.  The tank was also “stocked” with magnetic fish for the youngest anglers to catch.  The “Toddler Tank”, as it is called, is always a crowd favorite. 

Carterville FRO and Illinois DNR biologists also gave an electrofishing demonstration following the fishing derby.