June 15, 2005 (rt23 news) - The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Division of Fish and Wildlife will stock a variety of warmwater fish at more than 105 children’s fishing events throughout the state this spring and summer. Approximately 10,000 sunfish, 2,500 channel catfish and a mix of hundreds of brown bullhead, largemouth bass and black crappie are slated for stocking by the Division’s Hackettstown State Fish Hatchery in Warren County.

These derbies, sponsored by such groups as the DEP’s Division of Parks and Forestry, county park commissions, municipalities, police organizations and others, provide youngsters (and their parents) a fun-filled introduction to the sport of fishing. For many youngsters, participating in one of these events is a brand new experience, and as a result many parents thrill to sight of their son or daughter reeling in their very first fish on derby day!

With 40 events hosted already, the Division is looking forward to providing fish for nearly 50 more derbies throughout 18 counties in June alone! The Derby season itself will continue through September. Handling demonstrations and fishing instruction accompany many of these events where knowledgeable Division staff members are on hand to assist both seasoned and first-time participants.

For more information on the Division’s Children’s Fishing Derby Program and to view a list of upcoming events, click on the following link: www.njfishandwildlife.com/artderby.htm