PERRYSBURG, Ohio — The city of Perrysburg announced its Annual Fishing Derby will be held at Three Meadows Park on June 20.
Even though the derby is still happening this year, the city says new safety measures have been put in place to keep all participants safe in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
"We expect social distancing to be practiced and masks are required of participants," said the city in a statement.
The pond at Three Meadows Park will be stocked with two types of bass and channel catfish.
There will be two sessions this year, one from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and one from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., to ensure an adequate amount of social distancing.
There will also be lines painted on the pond perimeter every ten feet and there will be no weigh-in of fish to help with social distancing.
There will be three prizes given out each session based on the three longest fish caught.
There will be no helpers this year; the responsibility of measuring the fish is competitors. There will be a measuring station near the gazebo; once the fish is measured and recorded it will be released back in the pond.
The city will have volunteers present to witness the measuring of the fish, get your name and take a picture. At the end of each session, the winners will be announced.
As in past years, every child will get a derby hat for attending.
The derby is open to city residents only this year. Residency will be verified by city volunteers. A current driver's license or proof of residency is required to participate.
Fishing spots will be first come, first serve.
Competitors are encouraged to bring their own food or drinks, as none will be provided for them. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted at the park.
Bait will also not be provided; worms and cut-up hot dogs are suggestions as bait competitors can bring.
There will be no public restrooms open.
"We realize there are significant changes from previous years," the city said. "We appreciate your flexibility and patience as we work to make this year's fishing derby a success. We look forward to seeing you at the pond."
