Big Oaks NWR will host ‘Take a Kid Fishing Day’ on Saturday, July 13th from 7:00 AM until 3:30 PM. The purpose of this event is to promote youth recreational fishing and public use on the refuge. Kids 15 years old or younger and an accompanying adult(s) may access the refuge for this free fishing opportunity. Activity booths include a kids casting contest, make your own cane pole, and hover archery. These activities close at 1:30. A limited number of free fishing packets will be available for the kids. So, come early to get your packet while they last. There will be a free prize giveaway for kids. Free refreshments including hot dogs, chips, soda, and cookies will be available from10:30 AM until 1:30 PM. Volunteers will be on hand to assist the kids and teach them about fishing. A limited number of fishing poles and bait for beginners will be available for those who do not have fishing equipment. Families in the community are encouraged to come out and enjoy a day of fishing on the refuge. The event is co-sponsored by the Big Oaks Conservation Society (BOCS) and local merchants. The BOCS is a non-profit friends group, which consists of volunteers from local communities that support the refuge. Visitors who have not had the safety briefing this year must go to the office first to watch the required 20-minute refuge safety video and abide by refuge access procedures. All state and refuge fishing regulations will apply for this free fishing day (state fishing licenses are waived for this event). Approximate drive time to the lake from the refuge office is 30 minutes; please check-in to the office no later than 1:30 PM on the day of the event (the earlier the better)! Please contact the refuge office at 812-273-0783 for further information.