The first Northern California Free Kids Fishing Event for 2017 has been announced for  March 18 at the Bass Pond located in the BLM Bend Recreation Area located just northeast of Red Bluff.  The Bend Recreation area is best reached off Highway 5 and Jelly's Ferry Road northeast to Bend Ferry Road following Bend Ferry Road to the recreation area. A check in area will be located at the parking lot adjacent to the pond. Registration will begin at 8:45am and the pond will open to fishing at 9:00am concluding at 3:00pm.

The Bass Pond will be generously stocked with trout for the event. Loaner fishing outfits will be available on a first come first served basis and bait will be provided for those who don't have their own. The event is open to those 15 years of age and under who are able to hold a fishing rod. Parents / adults may assist but cannot bring in the or fish for the youngsters. Wardens will be on hand to make sure the rules are followed by all.  Make sure to bring a container and ice to take the trout home in as there are no cleaning facilities at the pond.

This event offered by the CDFW and the BLM are great ways to introduce a child to fishing and the Free Kids Fishing Days are some I look forward to every year as one of the many volunteers who are on hand to offer assistance, instruction and encouragement to the young anglers. For many families these events provide a child the chance to catch their first fish ever. I have been on the receiving end of many high fives and hugs after netting one of those first fish and I still have a hard time telling who is having the better time.