MOUNT VERNON – The deadline to register for the Kokosing Yak and Cast for Bass fishing tournament is fast approaching.
With the big day's weather forecasted to be about 60 degrees and cloudy, conditions for a day of fishing couldn't be better.
The tournament, open to anglers of all ages and hosted by the Kokosing Valley Jr. Anglers Youth Fishing Club, is scheduled for Saturday, April 24, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The entry fee is $36 with proceeds benefitting the Youth Fishing Club.
The deadline for registration is April 23.
"The mission of the Kokosing Valley Jr. Anglers Youth Club is to preserve, promote and protect the sport of angling," said Katie Hux, a member of the Youth Fishing Club.
The boundaries of the tournament's fishing area are the main stem of the Kokosing River to the confluence of the Mohican River, including Brinkhaven Bridge of Dreams River Access and Greer Landing. Maps are available on the tournament's webpage.
"[The Kokosing River] is a 'State Scenic River' as selected by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources," Hux said. "The Kokosing is well known for its aquatic diversity, including macroinvertebrates such as mayflies and water pennies, which are organisms non-tolerant to pollution.
"The river is also home to the Ohio state-endangered spotted darter, which is also an indicator of a healthy river."
In 2005, the Kokosing was designated as Ohio's first Water Trail. To learn more, visit www.knoxcountyparks.org.
The tournament will be conducted on kayaks. Competitors who do not have kayaks can rent one through Valley Kayak Rentals. Liability waivers are required, and anglers under 18 must have a life vest and be accompanied by an adult.
Eligible species for the tournament include largemouth-, smallmouth- and rock bass. Prizes will be given to the four largest catches, the Big Bass and Stringer of 3.
The tournament's sponsors include the Kokosing Valley Jr. Anglers Youth Club, Valley Kayak Rentals, THR Creekside Home Inspections, Good River and Paddle for Heroes.
Valley Kayak Rentals
330-231-2902
Tournament information and registration
740-485-1411
