Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery Hosts 2023 Reaching for Rainbows Special Needs Fishing Derby

Sep 29, 2023

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Little girl smiling with a fishing pole in front of a stream — A participant of the 2023 Reaching for Rainbows Special Needs Fishing Derby smiling with a rainbow trout she caught on Hatchery Creek at Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery.

The Annual Reaching For Rainbows Fishing Derbies were held at Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery! This event is split into two days so multiple surrounding counties can participate. On the first day students, staff, and helpers from Cumberland, Wayne, Casey and Metcalfe Counties participated in fishing, food and fun! Despite an unexpected downpour of rain, the students kept on fishing and were able to reel in several nice trout!

Day two consisted of students, staff, and helpers from Russell, Adair, and Clinton Counties arriving for their turn on Hatchery Creek! With sunny skies, the trout were biting and the kids were reeling them in. Some students were lucky enough to catch more than one--some caught their limit of five!

With both days combined, over three-hundred and fifty participants attended the Reaching For Rainbows Derbies this year! Those that pre-registered received a T-shirt, while students received a medallion commemorating the event as well. Hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, cookies, and drinks were provided by the Friends of Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery, Inc. for lunch both days.

Many volunteers attended this event--whether they were helping kids hook a fish, repairing rods, serving lunch, or passing out prizes, the support and joy they provided to all of these students is immeasurable and we appreciate each and every one! Events of this nature are only possible because of our dedicated volunteers and sponsors.