The one that didn't get away

Nadya Scott-McGovern, 8, and David Scott-McGovern, 12, have fun at the last Kids Fish Out Day. Photo / File

Rotorua children can catch themselves a good time at this weekend's Kids Fish Out Day.

The event will be held at Fish & Game's Ngongotaha trout hatchery on Sunday, giving children the opportunity to hook and reel in their own fish.

The fishing day will include two sessions: the first from 9am to 12pm and the second from 1pm to 3pm.

Fish & Game officer Mark Sherburn said the event was a fantastic opportunity for children aged from 6 to 14 to learn how to catch fish.

"It's an opportunity for kids to have some fun and experience catching a fish. Some kids may have never experienced fishing before so this is a great way to introduce them to the activity," he said.

Mr Sherburn said that unlike fishing in lakes or rivers, fishing at the hatchery meant kids were guaranteed to catch a fish. They could take their catch home to eat too, he said.

All fishing equipment will be provided and instructors from the Rotorua Anglers Association will be there to teach the children how to cast their rods and hook fish.

The event has been running for years and Mr Sherburn said it always proved successful, sometimes with more than 500 children taking part.

"The children always seem to enjoy themselves. They leave with a great big grin on their face."

Mr Sherburn said the day was about encouraging children to try fishing and get them outdoors in the fresh air.

"I think more and more kids stay indoors, doing anything that involves a flat screen, but fishing is something that can get them outdoors and doing something that their parents, or grandparents may have done when they were children."

Children can get a certificate recording the weight of their fish before they leave.

Parents and caregivers who are planning to bring their children to the day must pre-book by calling the Fish & Game office on (07) 357 5501.

The Kids Fish Out Day is sponsored by Rainbow Springs.

Details

What: kids fish out day.
Where: fish & game's ngongotaha trout hatchery, rotorua.
When: sunday from 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm.
Cost: $3.