Next month, rainbow trout will splash down into their new home in Veterans Lake. But they won't be staying for long.
"We thought it would be nice to have an event with kids and give them a chance to catch some trout," said Clay Caswell, director of Fulton's Parks and Recreation Department.
On Nov. 5, the department is set to host its first Youth Trout Fishing Tournament. As the name implies, unlike June's Alan Leake Memorial Kids Fishing Tournament, this one focuses solely on trout.
"Last year was the first year we partnered with the Conservation Department and stocked Veterans Lake with rainbow trout," Caswell said. "It was very popular."
Kids aged 4-17 can participate, Caswell said. They'll be divided into age brackets: 4-10 and 11-17. Kids younger than 16 don't need a fishing license to participate. For older kids, permits can be purchased online from the Missouri Department of Conservation: bit.ly/2dDJqUP.
In each bracket, there will be a prize awarded for biggest fish and another for most fish caught. Caswell said there will be trophies and possibly a couple fishing-related prizes like rods and tackle boxes.
"Most (trout in the lake) are 11 to 12 inches and around a pound," he said. "There's been some two- or three-pound ones."
No fancy equipment is needed. Caswell suggests using a small spinner bait or jig.
"Any type of pole is fine," Caswell said. "Being kids, they can just use a regular fishing pole, or older kids might use a fly rod."
In addition to the fishing, participants can enjoy seasonal treats.
"At our summer (tournament) we usually have hot dogs and chips for lunch," Caswell said. "This one, we're probably going to have donuts and hot chocolate, since we're anticipating the weather will be a little cooler."
Registration for the tournament costs $5 per child. The deadline is Thursday, though Caswell said the department will likely continue to accept registrants after that date passes. To register, visit Parks and Recreation in the lower level of City Hall at 18 E. 4th St., Fulton. Or call 573-592-3190 and ask the department to email the form to you.
Trout season at Veterans Park Lake is Nov. 1-Jan. 31.
