SoWaCo SU Fishing Derby

*UPDATE: Due to the current weather forecast, we have made the decision to reschedule the Fishing Derby to Saturday, May 17th from 8:00 AM to noon. While we understand that this new date may not work for everyone, it is the only date available with the Elks Lodge. For those unable to attend the new date, we will issue a full refund. Additionally, we will reopen the registration link to allow others to register for the updated date and times. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this change may cause, but we must prioritize the safety of everyone involved. We greatly appreciate your understanding.‎

SoWaCo SU's Fishing Derby is a great way for girls to try their hand at fishing, with no experience necessary! We will have experts on-hand to assist those who may need it. This event will be held at the Elks Lodge of Fayetteville on Saturday, April 5th, 2025. Arkansas Game and Fish stocks their pond with catfish every fall, however, there are also other varieties present such as perch.‎

Registration cost is $5 per participant and includes a custom fun patch. Adults must also register, but are free of charge. No refunds for cancellations or no-shows. Fun patches will not be provided to those who do not participate. This is not a drop-off event. All participants must be with a troop leader, parent, care-giver or other adult. Siblings (tagalongs) may attend and not participate in the event only if they are a registered Girl Scout, and monitored by a parent or troop leader. Younger siblings are not recommended as they may distract the participants. Unregistered tagalongs are not permitted.‎

Participants will fish in 45 minute timed heats by age group. Heat schedules will be completed after registration closes and will be emailed to all participants along with other event details. Check-in will begin at 7:30 AM, with the first heat starting at 8:00 AM and the last heat at 11:00 AM. You only need to attend your assigned timed heat, not the entire day. Please arrive no later than 15 minutes prior to your assigned heat time. After you check in, everyone will gather to review the derby rules (see attachment for rules) and will then disperse to find their own spot around the pond to fish. At the conclusion of each heat, we will award prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place based on the most fish caught.‎

Participants should bring their own fishing pole, bait and other gear. Bobbers will be provided free of charge, until we run out. If you do not own a fishing pole, the Fayetteville Public Library will check them out free of charge to those with a library card. Adults may want to bring a folding chair as there is no seating around the pond.‎

One adult ticket is required for each girl ticket. If there are girls accompanied by the same adult (troop leader for example), you may list that adult more than one time if registering girls separately. You will be emailed a QR code from Cheddar Up following check-out. You may print or pull up on your phone for us to scan at check-in, but you must have the QR code to check-in on the day of the event. Be sure to check your junk/spam email folder for this email. The QR code will only be sent once so don't miss it. Make sure you send each participant their QR code unless you all plan to check in at the same time as a troop.‎

This event will happen rain (light rain) or shine. If lightening is detected in the area, we may delay start times. In the event of severe weather, we will attempt to reschedule.‎

Yours In Girl Scouting,‎
Jennifer Gilmore, SoWaCo SU Director & Troop #5713 Leader
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