The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites the public to a free youth freshwater fishing derby at the Tenoroc Fish Management Area in Lakeland on Saturday, April 1, from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Attendees must register ahead of time to attend the derby, beginning on March 1. A fishing license is not required on this particular weekend because it falls during a license-free freshwater fishing weekend.

This special event will be conducted on Derby Lake Recreational Facility, a 16-acre former phosphate mine that is stocked with a variety of freshwater sport fish and catfish. The lake has seven fishing piers and a 200-foot boardwalk for fishing that is accessible to anglers with disabilities.

There will be a casting contest, exhibitors and other outdoor activities for the whole family. A free lunch will be provided by Publix Supermarkets. Bait and a limited number of loaner rods and reels will also be provided free of charge to youth younger than 15 years old. A parent or guardian must accompany all youth participants.

To pre-register, call the FWC Southwest Regional Office at 863-648-3200 Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Pre-registration will end on Friday, March 31, at 5 p.m.

For more information on freshwater fishing, visit the FWC Freshwater Fishing webpage at MyFWC.com or call the FWC’s Lakeland office at 863-648-3200.