Sponsor a kid in the 13th annual Pine Island Elementary Fishing Derby

The 13th annual Pine Island Elementary Fishing Tournament & Derby on Oct. 23, 2011, at the Olde Fish House Marina in Matlacha is all about kids.
The major fund-raiser for host Matlacha Hookers, it helps purchase books and technology equipment for the Pine Island Elementary (PIE) School. Plus, it encourages kids in three age divisions to wet a line.
Cost for non-PIE students to participate in the children’s derby is $35; for PIE students, $30. For those who cannot pay the fee, the Matlacha Hookers solicit sponsors.
“Even though there is an adult fishing tournament element, this annual event is a huge hit with kids throughout Southwest Florida,” said Arlene Stornello, the Hookers’ Madam President. “We are always thankful for the support we get from businesses and individuals who make it possible for all interested kids to participate, no matter what their financial situation.”
In addition to the derby, registered children are invited to participate in games, face-painting, T-shirt-painting, lunch, bike raffles, and a trophy awards ceremony. Grades K-1 (Shrimp) fish from 8 to 10 a.m.; grades 2-3 (Pinfish) 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.; and grades 4-5 (Sharks) 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
The day’s activities also include an adult tournament, a fish fry, a raffle, a Chinese and silent auction, and live music.
Tournament registration fee for adult anglers is $50, which includes a free T-shirt and the fish fry. Prizes of $500 are awarded for heaviest legal mangrove snapper, redfish, and trout; $1,000 for heaviest legal slam.
Adult fishing starts at 7 a.m.; weigh-in is at 3 p.m. Registration is Oct. 22 from noon to 6 p.m. across the street from Olde Fish House Marina.
Adult participants can also pre-register at partner businesses: Miceli’s Restaurant and Seven Seas Bait & Tackle in Matlacha, Four Winds Marina in Bokeelia, and Monroe Canal Marina and Old Pine Island Marine & Tackle in St. James City.
For kids sponsorship and adult registration forms or more information about the fishing event, visit www.matlachahookers.org or call 239-282-1442 or 239-283-3706.