May 13, 2025
Picture a summer morning: the gentle lap of water, the croak of frogs echoing through the mist, and the stillness of nature all around. It’s the perfect time to say, “Gone Fishin’.”
Turn that peaceful scene into reality at the Annual Fishing Derby, happening Saturday, June 7, from 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM at Plum Grove Reservoir (located on Algonquin Road near Harper College).
Presented by the Palatine Park District and sponsored by the West Suburban Bass Anglers (WSBA), this family-friendly event is free with online pre-registration at palatineparks.org.
“Fishing promotes wellness, fosters bonds with family and friends, and forges a deep connection with nature,” said Dave Homan, long time Palatine resident and outgoing Conservation Director for WSBA. WSBA is the Presenting Sponsor of the Fishing Derby. The group’s 30 members help organize the event each year.
The reservoir is restocked with fish ahead of the Derby. “The Parks Department orders fish through Richmond Fisheries,” said Amy Vito, Palatine’s Superintendent of Parks and Planning. “They usually bring the fish 3-4 weeks before the fishing derby. This gives the fish time to acclimate to the water and get hungry. We have over 500 fish added to the reservoir this year including large mouth bass, sunfish, and bluegill.”
This year marks 15 years of partnership between WSBA and Palatine Park District. Cabela’s has joined as a sponsor this year, offering rods and reels for use as needed. They will also be providing Fishing Derby prizes.
Want to get a head start on fishing skills? Join the free Instructional Fishing Class the evening before the Derby on Friday, June 6, from 5:30–6:30 PM at the reservoir. Open to kids and adults ages 5 and up, this hands-on workshop, led by WSBA members will cover the basics: how to cast, set a hook, reel in, and safely release fish.
Register for the class here:
“Fishing has grown approximately 6-8% in the last five years and is projected to continue at this pace for the next few years,” Homan said. Fishing license sales have also increased.
WSBA supports conservation through programs like catch-and-release tournaments and clean water initiatives, hosting up to 10 tournaments annually.
Looking to dive deeper into the hobby? The Palatine Park District offers several fishing programs this summer, including:
So, grab your gear, bring your family, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Join us at the Fishing Derby on June 7 and write your own fish story. You might even catch a big one!
