Fishing offers an opportunity for people to learn more about nature, try their luck and have fun. That's the goal of the annual Kids Fishing Derby, hosted by the Donegal Fish and Conservation Association (DFCA). The event will be held on Saturday, April 13, at the reflecting pond on the grounds of Donegal Presbyterian Church, 1891 Donegal Springs Road, Mount Joy, from 8 to 11 a.m. All youths age 11 and under as well as all handicapped anglers who possess a current Pennsylvania fishing license are invited to participate.

"The Fishing Derby is important to the Donegal Fish and Conservation Association because it gives local kids an opportunity to catch trout in an area that has been stocked with fish specifically for them," said Scot Harlacher, DFCA volunteer, who added that more than 300 brook, rainbow, golden and brown trout will be available to catch. "Our hope is also that this event will create a bonding experience for kids with their family and friends. Fishing can also give children a reason to learn specific skills then have a chance for success by putting those skills into action."

He's hoping programs like the Fishing Derby encourage participants to pursue the pastime. "Many kids will enjoy learning about nature then wish to continue in outdoor activities as they get older," he said. "Our ultimate goal is to teach and model the ideals of conservation and stewardship so that those values can be continued in the future."

In addition to the Fishing Derby, Donegal Presbyterian Church will host a pancake breakfast that is open to the general public. The breakfast will be served from 7 to 11 a.m. in the church fellowship hall. Proceeds will benefit the church's annual mission trip to upstate New York.

"We have been running this (mission) project for about 25 years and expect to take about a dozen volunteers this year to work on several handicapped ramps for multiple families," said Harlacher, who is also a member of the church. "We truly appreciate any donations for this effort because the funds help us with building materials, gas, food, etc., and allow us to have an immediate positive impact on the lives of a few needy families."

The DFCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring the Donegal watershed to its original state. In cooperation with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, the DFCA has raised more than 3,000 trout annually since 1964 for stocking in the Donegal Creek.

"I encourage families to bring their kids to the Fishing Derby because they will have a reasonable chance to catch some trout," Harlacher commented. "Even if you don't intend to fish, it's a great opportunity to be outside and watch how excited and happy the participants will be. We do hold the event rain or shine, so please be prepared for the weather and cold temperatures."

All fishermen must bring their own equipment and clean their own fish. DFCA members will be on hand until 11:30 a.m. to help fishermen, but all fishing will stop at 11 a.m. All participants must register with the DFCA on the day of the derby. Parking will be permitted only in the Donegal Presbyterian Church parking area, with no street parking.

For more information or to help with the derby, contact club president Brandon Crouser at 717-413-6586.