Annual Youth Cat Fishing Derby

“GET HOOKED ON FISHING, NOT ON DRUGS!”

THE DATE FOR THE 2011 DERBY IS MONDAY, AUGUST 8th. All slots for the 2011 Cat Fishing Derby are filled.

Due to the high river levels this year (2011), the Catfish Derby has been moved from its normal location on the Minnesota River to Cedar Lake Park, where we will refer to it as the "Fishing Derby" this year.

Each year, local young people join local peace officers and other public safety personnel for a day of fun and fishing on the Minnesota River.

Up to 50 youth, ages 12 -16, who live or attend school in Scott County join Scott County Sheriff Kevin Studnicka, Chief Deputy Dean Opatz, and dozens of other deputies, police officers, fire fighters and emergency medical personnel in fishing boats; bait, fishing gear, beverages and food - all provided!

Normally, staging is at the Scott County Fairgrounds where the youth meet their boat captains for the day and stock up on supplies. Most of the day is spent on the Minnesota River trying to catch one of the biggest fish in North America. Although the tournament is “catch and release”, all fish are measured and recorded.

Door prizes are awarded and every participant goes home with extras. Many of the prizes are donated by local Scott County businesses. Donations also round out the fishing gear and snacks.

The whole idea of the Scott County Sheriff’s Office Youth Cat Fishing Derby is to give kids a chance to get to know public safety personnel as people. In addition, the derby gives young people the occasion to experience a hobby they can continue for a lifetime.

Statistics show that youth turn to alcohol, tobacco and other drugs partially because of boredom. Hopefully, for some, fishing will provide another option.