State Representative Blaine Wilhour has announced the 2025 Fishing Derby for children aged 4 to 15, scheduled for June 21 at Carlyle Lake – Willow Pond in Carlyle, Illinois. The event will begin at 8:30 a.m. with a water safety presentation and conclude at 11:00 a.m. with prizes awarded for the biggest fish and most fish caught.
“This event has become a very popular activity for families looking to enjoy the resources we have right here in our area,” said Wilhour. “We have parents and grandparents bringing the kids out to get them away from all of the computers, televisions, and video games and enjoy the fresh air.”
Local radio personality Al Crocker will participate again this year, teaching children how to bait hooks and reel in fish. Crocker is known as a fishing expert in Illinois and hosts a weekly radio show called “Fishing and the Outdoors.”
Participants should meet at the Carlyle Lake Visitor Center at 801 Lake Road in Carlyle to check in at 8:30 a.m. The event is organized with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their own rod and reel, while bait will be provided by Rep. Wilhour. The IDNR will supply some fishing poles for use, but children must be accompanied by an adult.
“The sport of fishing has been growing for several years, and many high schools and colleges in our area have fishing teams,” Wilhour added. He also congratulated the Wabash Valley College Bass Team for finishing sixth nationally in the Association of Collegiate Anglers' 2024-25 season.
For more information, interested parties can contact the district office at 618-665-4109.
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