Camping before Youth Fishing Derby

Families planning to attend the free El Cajon Ford Youth Fishing Derby at Lake Poway on Feb. 4 have an opportunity to camp under the stars.

Overnight camping at the lake will be available on Friday, Feb. 3, for a $15 per car registration fee. The evening will include a free pizza dinner and a fishing seminar hosted by Capt. Ron Baker, formerly of “Fish Talk Radio,” and big-bass fisherman Mike Long.

The seminar will give youngsters a leg-up on the competition and ensure that their fishing rods/reels are in proper working order and rigged with the appropriate tackle, said Doug Smith, senior park ranger at the lake.

The derby will be from sunrise to noon on Saturday and is free for ages 15 and younger. Fishing will begin at 6 a.m.

After the derby, all participating youth and their parents are invited to enjoy a free barbecue lunch. The awards ceremony will begin shortly after 1 p.m., with an opportunity drawing and prizes for age-division winners.

In preparation for the event, Lake Poway will close for fishing and boating Feb. 1 through 3.

For more information, call (858) 668-4772 or visit our website at www.poway.org/lakepoway.