HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – The annual Take Kids Fishing Day at Jeffers Bend Environmental Center brought a mighty crowd of community members on a slightly rainy Saturday morning. In its 25th year, this year’s event attracted around 400 people.

The weather was overcast and mild, perfect for fishing and outdoor activities. Diane Croney-Turner, Pennyrile RC&D Coordinator, said the turnout over the years has reached over 1,200 people in some years. Despite the smaller turnout this year, Croney-Turner said the event was a huge success as prizes were awarded to kids for the smallest, largest and most fish in each age group.

Boy in a green patterned shirt holds a bright green fishing rod with a small fish on the line, smiling man beside him in a park setting.
Several large dead fish lie on green grass around a white plastic bucket with a wire handle nearby.
Groups of people fishing along a pond, children near the water and spectators on the far bank, with trees in the background.
Man in mint green shirt holding a barbed fish in one hand and a fishing rod in the other beside a pond with other anglers in the background.
Two children stand on a muddy riverbank in a lush green forest, fishing with rods over the water.
People of all ages fishing along a pond shore at a park, with trees in the background and spectators on the grassy bank.
Two children fishing by a muddy riverbank under green trees, one in a white shirt with pink hood and the other in a camo jacket.

Charles Turner, also a Pennyrile RC&D coordinator, told Christian County Now that he is pleased with the turnout considering the weather. “I’ve learned over the years that a little rain generates better fishing,” he said. “We have some kids who have already caught some huge catfish. That’ll probably be their supper tonight.”

Many parents who grew up participating in the event now take their kids every year, including Raychel Farmer, Human Rights Commission Director. She said, “Coming out here now and bringing my own children is so special and memorable.”

The event included a sack lunch and bouncy house water slides, as well as hayrides across the property. Hot dogs were provided for attendees by Atmos Energy, who have been sponsoring the event for over 15 years. Eric White, Atmos Energy Operations Supervisor said the company continues to support the event because it is important for the youth.

“The community support for this event goes above and beyond every year,” Turner said. There are more events coming to Jeffers Bend in the next few months. Their annual Benefit for the Bend fundraiser will take place on June 20, and the Hummingbird Festival and Naturefest will be later this year.

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