CALLAWAY — Young anglers in Bay County will get a chance to show off their skills during the return of the Children's Fishing Rodeo.

The city of Callaway is hosting its annual fishing rodeo Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Callaway Recreational Complex, 500 Callaway Park Way, at the back of the building. The event is open to children under 16 years old, who must be accompanied by an adult.

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The rodeo is free, and children are encouraged to bring their rods, tackle, bait, chairs and other equipment. However, equipment will be provided for children who need it. 

“We are excited to be able to provide education and hands-on experience for our community youth and their families,” said Kylee Trenholm, event coordinator for the Callaway Leisure Services Department. “We hope this will start a newfound passion early on for kids in Bay County.”

Registration starts at 7:30 a.m. and lasts until 10:30 a.m., though children are encouraged to pre-register by picking up forms at City Hall or online through the Eventbrite website. By pre-registering, participants automatically enter a raffle limited to one ticket per email. The winner must be present at the drawing to receive the prize.

Awards for first, largest and most fish caught will be given to participants at 11 a.m. Also, fishing clinics to keep children entertained will be held throughout the day. Most activities will lean toward educational opportunities with booths of fishing 101 tactics, including knot tying, cast net and relays. In addition, other entertainment such as crafts, photo opportunities, games, prizes, sports and meals from Mission BBQ will be provided for those in attendance. 

The Children's Fishing Rodeo started in 2003, and with great success, the annual event continued until 2018, until Hurricane Michael and the COVID-19 pandemic forced cancellations the next four years. With the return of the rodeo, the Callaway Leisure Services Department anticipates about 200 children will attend, Trenholm said. 

“We’re really shooting to have as many kids as possible to come out to this year’s event,” Trenholm said. “Our town hasn’t been the same since 2018, so we’re hoping this event’s turnout is much bigger than expected.”

Partnering with Callaway Leisure Services for the rodeo are Callaway Lodge 369, Callaway Historical Society, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. The local groups will be on-site Saturday to assist and ensure a fun, safe and educational fishing environment. 

 A few rules that will be followed are:

For more information on this year's fishing rodeo, call 850-874-0035.