Hermiston, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and several local partners will host a free fishing event for kids at the McNary Channel Ponds near Hermiston on Saturday, April 9 from 10 a.m. to noon. The event is open to all youth 2 to 12 years old.

“This is a great opportunity for kids to learn how to fish,” said Bill Duke, ODFW district fish biologist. “The McNary ponds are in a great natural setting, we’ll be stocking plenty of fish for kids to catch, and there will be lots of volunteers to show them how.”

ODFW will provide loaner fishing rods and reels, tackle and bait for youth that don’t have their own gear. There also will be prizes for the largest fish in each age group.

In addition to ODFW, other event sponsors include the Hermiston Parks and Recreation Department, Campbell Toyota and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

All fishing regulations apply and anglers 13-years-old and younger do not need fishing license.

To get to McNary Channel Ponds from Hwy 370 in Umatilla, turn north onto Brownell Blvd. (just west of I-82). Proceed to W. Third St. Turn right on Third St. and proceed through the I-82 underpass. The ponds are north of Third St. between I-82 and McNary Dam. There are several well-signed vehicle access points.

For more information about this event, call Bill Duke, ODFW district fish biologist, at (541) 276-2344.

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