Enjoy a morning at the lake during Just for Kids Fishing Derby
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County invites young anglers to experience the joys of fishing at its “Just for Kids Fishing Derby” on Sunday, June 9, from 8 to 11 a.m. at Silver Lake at Blackwell Forest Preserve near Warrenville.
The free derby invites anglers, ages 15 or under — divided into four age categories — to showcase their fishing skills by catching the largest fish in three species categories. Forest preserve district fishing experts will be on hand to provide valuable tips and tricks for fishing in DuPage waters. An awards ceremony will conclude the event.
Kids can register online at www.dupageforest.org/things-to-do/calendar-of-events, by calling (630) 933-7248, or at the event. The Just for Kids Fishing Derby is an open house, and there is no capacity limit.
“This event is more than just a fun day of angling for young ones,” said ranger operations manager Marty Jandura. “It empowers kids to appreciate nature and instills patience, perseverance, and, if we’re lucky, lifelong environmental stewardship.”
Visitors can enter Blackwell off the north side of Butterfield Road (Route 56), a quarter-mile west of Winfield Road and one mile east of Route 59.
The Forest Preserve District boasts over 30 lakes and ponds and 45 miles of rivers stocked with various species, including bluegill, bass, pike, and walleye. Lake maps and creel limits are posted on dupageforest.org and in the Forest Preserve District's comprehensive printed fishing guide.
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County improves the quality of life for all DuPage County residents. Its 26,000 acres of woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and waterways contribute to cleaner air and water, help with flood control, create vital habitats for wildlife, and provide safe spaces where people can boost their physical and mental health.
More than 5.5 million people visit its 60 forest preserves, 166 miles of trails, seven education centers, and scores of programs each year. For information, call (630) 933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org, where you can also link to the district’s e-newsletter and Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok pages.