Ding Darling holds annual fishing derby Thanksgiving weekend

The fifth annual “Ding” Darling Kids Fishing Derby is set to take place at the Sanibel Causeway Islands Park (Island A) Saturday, Nov. 26.
Registration for the free fishing derby for kids 15 and under starts at 8:30 a.m., the competition begins at 9 a.m. and concludes at 11 a.m. The awards ceremony will be held at 11:30 a.m.
“When kids register, they’ll get a goodie bag and those are given out to the first 75 participants. They also get put into a random prize drawing when they register. Local fishing clubs, Caloosa Wholesale and The Bait Box have all donated prizes that are just for the random prize drawing,” Larkins said.
Participants in the fishing derby must be able to hold their own pole, with no help from their parents. Kids are encouraged to bring their own poles but the refuge will provide poles that morning for those that do not have their own. The Bait Box will supply free bait for the competition.
First, second and third place will be awarded prizes. Winners will be split into two age groups: 10 to 15 and nine and younger. Prizes will also be given out for smallest and largest fish in both age divisions. For each age group, five prizes will be given out.
“First place will get a rod and reel combo that also has a tackle box, second place will receive a rod and reel and third place will receive a tackle box with tackle,” Larkins said.
The Trophy Case in Fort Myers will be providing participants with trophies. The competition is co-sponsored by the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society. The event is also made possible by The Bait Box, Trophy Case of Fort Myers, Sanibel Island Fishing Club and Lee County Parks & Recreation.
For more information on the fishing derby or to volunteer, contact Becky Larkins at rebecca_larkins@fws.gov or call (239) 472-1100 ext. 236.