Payson Roundup

Photo courtesy of Rim Country Optimist Club

This little angler had the thrill of catching a fish half his size at the 2008 Annual Optimist Kids Fishing Festival.

Looking for a fun-filled day for the whole family?

The annual Optimists’ Fishing Festival will take place Saturday, March 28 at Green Valley Park. Anyone, whether a tender 2 or a tottering 102 and everyone in between, can participate in this event. A fishing license isn’t even needed — if you register for the event.

No fishing gear? No problem. There will be plenty of gear to borrow for the day.

No bait? No problem. Extra bait will be available.

Kids registered for the event also receive a free hat.

The Third Annual Optimist Kids Fishing Festival is a cooperative effort of the Rim Country Optimist Club, Payson Parks & Recreation Department, Arizona Game & Fish Department, Payson Community Christian School, John Wisner and KRIM radio station. Young and old are invited to cast a line and try to catch the biggest fish.

KRIM will be taking free photos of kids and their catch.

Plan on visiting the Optimist Club’s food booth, which will offer reasonably priced family-style fare throughout the day.

At the 2008 festival, hundreds of youngsters turned out to try their hand at angling at the lakes in Green Valley Park. So, make sure you get out to the park early on March 28. But make sure you bring lots of sun screen, put hats on all the little heads in your group and be sure to tell your little fishermen to listen to the instructions given by the experts on hand to help them make it a successful day. But most of all, remember to have fun — whether fish are caught or not.

A raffle and silent auction will take place during the day to help cover costs. Items may be donated up until the morning of the event. Volunteers are needed in various positions. For further information about the event, raffle tickets or to get a list of the raffle and silent auction items, call Joan Young, Rim Country Optimist Club, (928) 472-2264. To learn more about the Optimists, check out the Web site at http://www.rimcountryoptimist.com.