Mimbres, NM, May 11, 2020 -- The Gila National Forest, Wilderness Ranger District has postponed the 9th Annual Aldo Leopold Kids Fishing Derby, which was to be held on Saturday, June 6, 2020 due to the current COVID-19 pandemic.
The Aldo Leopold Kids Fishing Day is a free family-oriented event where families come together to learn about fishing, the forest, the community and kids have a chance to catch a record book Gila trout. This annual event is held at Lake Roberts and is offered by the Gila National Forest, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Mora National Fish Hatchery, Trout Unlimited and numerous other partners including NM Wildlife Federation, National Wild Turkey Federation, NM Wild, Mesilla Valley Fly Fishers, NMDGF, and other local businesses.
Last year the biggest Gila Trout caught weighed 2.42 pounds and measured 18.5". Partners are currently looking to move the event to the fall if circumstances allow.
When the event is rescheduled, information will be shared with the public and we hope you will join us for this fun activity. Information about the Derby can be found on the Gila National Forest or Friends of the Aldo Leopold Kids Fishing Derby Facebook page.
Just a reminder that anyone can fish for free in public fishing waters, at open lakes and streams, throughout the state Saturday, June 6, but everyone must observe bag limits and all other rules and regulations. For more information on this activity or fishing in New Mexico, please go to: http://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/event/free-fishing-day-2020/.