GIRL’S DAY FISHING DERBY AT HO’OMALUHIA BOTANICAL GARDEN

(Thurs., Feb. 7, 2013) — The City’s Department of Parks and Recreation will be celebrating Girls Day on Sunday, March 3, 2013, with a “Girl’s Day Fishing Derby” at Ho`omaluhia Botanical Garden in Kaneohe.

            There will be two fishing event categories open to both girls and boys (longest fish over seven inches and most midas chichlids), in three age groups (four to seven, eight to twelve, and thirteen to seventeen).  Prizes will be awarded in the three age groups for both categories.

            Family and friends who do not wish to enter the derby are welcome to particiapte in the catch and release fishing program.  There is no casting allowed and fishing participants should come prepared with hand-held poles (or borrow bamboo poles at Ho`omaluhia), barbless hooks and non-live bait (white bread works fine).   For safety and comfort, walking shoes, insect repellent, water bottle, and lunch are recommended

            Parking is provided at the Visitor Center. Follow the red fish signs along a scenic garden trail to the fishing shoreline, about 20 minutes walking time.  Youth must be accompanied by an adult.  Pets are not permitted in the garden.  Fishing is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; the competition time for girls is 10 a.m. to 12 noon.

            Funding for the Fishing Derby is provided by the National “Take Me Fishing” grant program.  Girl’s Day is a time for families to give good wishes for the health, happiness, and future success of girls, and to inspire girls to learn new skills and develop personal goals.

            For more information, call 233-7323.

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Media Contact: Olive Vanselow, Ho`omaluhia Botanical Garden, (808) 233-7323