Free kids fishing program at Monroe Library on April 16

For those planning to take their children out to the free fishing day being hosted by the Sky Valley Chapter of Trout Unlimited at Lake Tye, David Beckenbaugh suggests first getting them educated during a free educational program he's presenting Saturday at the Monroe Library.

Beckebaugh has been fishing the area for 49 years and volunteering at the annual free fishing day and adult derby for the last six. He will be teaching children and their families about bank fishing, the best rods for kids, what fishing gear to avoid and the best bait and lures to use from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, April 16, at the Monroe Library, 1070 Village Way.

Trout Unlimited's free fishing day is 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, April 24, at Lake Tye, off Fryleand Boulevard in Monroe. Children 12 and under can fish for free and earn lots of prizes. Cabela's will again be a sponsor, providing various fishing gear as prizes.

"We're really pleased that they decided to sponsor us again,GÇ¥ Beckenbaugh said.

An adult fishing derby will be held 2-5 p.m, with a cash prize of $250 for the biggest fish caught and a $500 bonus for anyone who catches a special tagged fish. Entry is $10.