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Parents' Guide to the Derby

First time attending the Kids' Fishing Derby?

Follow our quick Parent Guide for some helpful tips to having a great Derby weekend!

1. Registration Is Required (But It's Free!)
The Derby is free for all kids ages 3-12, but pre-registration is required to receive a session entry ticket.
- Registration opens April 1st and closes Friday, June 6th at 4:00 PM.
- Visit www.dcnvkidsfishingderby.org/kidregistration to register.
Note: Walk-up registration will NOT be accepted during Derby weekend.

2. Mark Your Calendar
The 2025 Derby will be held on Saturday, June 7th and Sunday, June 8th at Lampe Park.
- Gates open at 6:30 AM.
- Breakfast starts at 7:00 AM.
- First fishing session begins at 8:00 AM.

Arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time for:
- Parking
- Grabbing breakfast
- Visiting the Bait & Tackle table
- Picking up Will Call tickets (under the Pavilion behind the Raffle Booth)
- Getting in line for your child's session

3. Dress for Comfort & Safety
Nevada gets hot!
- Wear light-colored clothing
- Apply sunscreen (face, arms, legs)

- Hats & sunglasses help with sun glare off the water
- Wear closed-toe shoes to avoid tripping or stray hooks
- Bring a reusable water bottle
- A small backpack is great for snacks, gear, and keeping hands free
- Use a waterproof pouch for electronics

Fishing Gear Rules:
- You may bring your own rod, but it must follow Derby rules:
- Single hook
- Split shot
- No bobbers, lures, treble hooks, or tackle boxes

- Not sure? Borrow a loaner rod from the Bait & Tackle Table!

To enter the fishing area, present your child's session ticket to the Gate Keepers.
Creek gates open ~10 minutes before each session.

Preschool-aged kids (3-6) may have one parent accompany them.
Kids 6-12 fish independently, assisted by River Help Volunteers.
No strollers in the fishing area. Baby carriers are encouraged.

4. Food & Drinks
Bring cash for food tickets, raffle tickets, and Derby merch. Some booths accept cards, but cash is quicker.

Lunch Options (all meals include chips, cookies & a drink):
- Hamburger
- Cheeseburger
- Hot Dog

Breakfast:
- Burritos
- Biscuits & Gravy

Free bottled water available to help keep everyone hydrated.
You're welcome to bring your own food. Lampe Park is near stores and restaurants.

Help us keep the park clean-please dispose of trash and don't feed the ducks or geese.

5. After Your Session
- Return loaner rods at the gate
- Collect your child's gate prize
- Visit the Weigh-In Station to check your catch
- Look for a tagged fish-it might win an extra prize!
- Use the Fish Cleaning Station, or donate your fish to help families in need

Big Fish Winner announced each session! Trophy + leaderboard spot.
Stick around to cheer on our young anglers and admire the top catches.

6. Make a Day of It
Bring a picnic blanket and relax at the park-many families love hanging out on the lawn near the
Pavilion.

- Shaded areas under the willows
- Raffle runs all weekend-listen for your name!
- T-Shirt Design Contest and Sponsor Awards held Saturday at 12:00 PM under the Pavilion

Stop by on Thursday, June 5th (9 AM-3 PM) to watch fish being planted in the creek.
Stay after the Derby on Sunday, June 8th to see NDOW relocate the fish.

Caution: Vehicles and equipment will be moving during setup and teardown.

7. Remember-It's for the Kids!
The Derby is about fun, learning, and outdoor memories. Please help us keep it positive and
family-friendly:
- Be kind and respectful
- No alcohol or drug use
- No smoking or vaping near the event or participants

Aggressive or inappropriate behavior won't be tolerated. Event security will be present.

Need help? Look for staff in red shirts and hats
Share ideas or sign up to volunteer at the Suggestion Box under the Pavilion

And finally...
A big THANK YOU to our incredible volunteers and sponsors. You make this event possible for our community's children

© 2023 - 2025 Kids' Fishing Derby, INC.

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