Organizers of the 9th annual Blair Smith Memorial Fishing with Kids are getting geared up for the event on July 29.
New this year is a partnership with Downtown Trenton and the event will be moved to RiverFront Square along the west side of the riverbank of the Trent River.
“Although Centennial Park is a great venue for this event, it is nice to be able to showcase the waterfront in the Downtown Core,” said Lisa Kuypers, Executive Director of the DBIA. “It’s a lovely space featuring the RiverFront Square pedestrian walkway area, the Front St. Farmers’ Market as well as a good stretch of green space that’s nice for fishing, walking or picnicking.”
“This is a fun catch-and-release fishing tournament for kids up to 13-years-old,” said organizer Tammy Smith. “Local anglers from the Quinte Fishing Club will be on hand to assist and instruct the children in fishing and answer any of their questions. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the fun and excitement that children experience while learning how to fish.”
All children 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Life jackets must be worn. Bring your own fishing rod and tackle. Worms will be available.
It is non-competitive in that all registered participants will be eligible for the draws at the end of the afternoon.
This free event is held each year in honour of Smith’s late husband, Blair Smith, an avid fisherman who loved all things related to fishing and spent many hours enjoying the sport with his children, Kirsten and Anthony.
“Blair’s wish was to share his passion with kids and introduce them to the sport of fishing which will ultimately help sustain the industry,” explained Smith. “The Bay of Quinte is such an excellent fishery and many tournaments and fishing events are held in the region each year.”
The first 150 children to register will receive a fishing goodie bag and there are lots of draw prizes, games, activities and treats for participants along with a free BBQ. The event starts at 10 a.m. and will be over by 2 p.m. but guests are invited to look around downtown while waiting for the 3 p.m. weigh-in. A show from the Competitive Sport Fishing League Tournament is also taking place in downtown Trenton that day.
