VICTOR, Idaho — Teton Valley Trout Unlimited (TVTU) is hosting a free kids fishing day on June 8 at Trail Creek Pond.
This is the first free fishing day event in Teton Valley. Similarly to the free fishing day in Jackson, hosted by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, it aligns with Idaho Fish and Game’s statewide free fishing day.
“Teton Valley Trout Unlimited wants to engage youth in fishing opportunities within our valley as well as educate them on river safety, aquatic insects and fish identification,” Pierre Sarthou, Teton Valley Trout Unlimited Event Chair, said. “We hope that by introducing kids to these activities we can also help them develop a deeper appreciation for nature and conservation.”
The event is June 8 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the first 100 kids under the age of 14 to sign up or attend the event will receive a free fishing rod, reel and fishing kit with a bobber, hooks and lead-free weights.
“I grew up around here and had a great opportunity to learn how to fish,” Sarthou said, “The idea is that we give kids spinning rods and a setup they can use and at the same time learn about river and water safety.”
Non-profit Sporting Lead-Free, based in Missoula, Montana, donated the lead-free weights, Pinky G’s Pizza is bringing free slices and Grand Teton Brewing will provide free root beer.
Trail Creek Pond will be stocked with rainbow trout by the Idaho Fish and Game Department, who will also be in attendance. Sarthou explained that Fish and Game usually has free rods for kids to try on Idaho’s free fishing day and TVTU wanted to build on that effort.
TVTU will also host educational activities at different stations at Trail Creek Pond. Kids can learn about river safety, like how to properly wear a lifejacket, toss throw bags and use whistles. Another station will teach kids about entomology, and the third will educate kids on fish identification and dissection.
