UMATILLA— Two times this spring — including one this weekend — kids can fish for free at McNary Ponds.

And maybe win a prize for doing so.

The first event is for children ages 2-11 and is happening this weekend. Hermiston Parks and Recreation and Rogers Toyota are sponsoring this year’s Kid’s Fishing Derby at McNary Lock and Dam. The event is from 10 a.m.-noon on Saturday, March 26. No registration is required.

Diana Picard with Hermiston Parks and Recreation said the Kids Fishing Derby has been going on for 15 years.

“We just saw that kids needed an introduction to fishing and how it can be a fun thing to do with your family,” she said. “Kids get to come out, try fishing, and win a prize. It’s been very successful, and hundreds of people usually show up.”

Because of COVID-19, Hermiston and Umatilla hosted a combined fishing derby in 2021, but this year, each event is separate. Hermiston Parks and Recreation’s event is on March 26, and the City of Umatilla’s event is Saturday, May 21.

Before each derby event, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will stock ponds at the McNary Wildlife Nature Area, and some of the fish have prize tags on their rear fins. If a child catches a fish with a tag, he or she can turn it in for a prize — a fishing pole and tackle box. Kids may catch up to three fish during the event.

During the City of Umatilla’s fishing derby, the Fountain Pond will be stocked; in Hermiston prize fish are planned for both the Fountain Pond and the Social Security Pond.

Children must bring their own fishing poles and gear, and adults must accompany all children. Adults cannot fish during the derby and do not need a fishing license to accompany children; all normal fishing regulations will be in effect.

The Hermiston event is open to children age 2-11, and no fishing license is required for children under 12.

Umatilla’s event will be open to those 17 and under; however, children 12-17 must complete five fishing education stations to fish without a license for the day. Those education stations will be open from 8-10 a.m. on May 21, and the City of Umatilla’s Derby is from 9-11:30 a.m.

For more information, contact Hermiston Parks and Recreation at 541-667-5018 or the City of Umatilla at 541-922-3226.