Benton Police Department will host the annual “Hooked on Fishing” Derby for children 12 and under from 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, June 17 at Sunset Lake in Benton. Registration is free and will begin at 8:30 a.m. the day of the event. All participants will need to bring a fishing pole and bait.
Arkansas Game and Fish Commission will provide truckloads of fish for participants to catch, and a grand prize will be awarded to the boy and girl who catch the largest catfish. Smallest catch prizes will also be awarded. Additionally, door prizes will be announced during the event. Lt. Larry Applegarth of BNPD helps organize the derby and said the effort that goes into it is worth it every time.
“We all know what an impact technology has had on society- both good and bad, particularly for our youth and during the pandemic, so to see kids enjoying the outdoors is extremely rewarding to all involved. It not only teaches them a potential lifelong hobby but allows further opportunity for officers and kids to have positive interaction, something Benton PD prides itself on.”
He added that there will be a few fun surprises this year- special guests, treats and extra prizes thanks to generous donors throughout the community. Event sponsors include McLarty Nissan, Benton Fraternal Order of Police, Walmart, and Mac’s One Stop in addition to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
For more information, call BNPD at 501-776-5948. You can also follow BNPD on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, as well as download the free BNPD app available in iTunes and Google Play.