KANKAKEE, IL – The 2023 Illinois 4-H Hooks Us Together Fishing Tournament is on, and April is kicking it off with the Crappie challenge! This annual fishing competition is open to all 4-H members from Illinois and sponsored by Steve Moffitt, 4-H Fish Camp All-Star Volunteer.
To participate, 4-H members should fish in the month of April and use a smartphone to take a picture of their catch. In the picture, they must clearly show the length of the fish in inches, which can be done with a tape measure. All Illinois Department of Natural Resources fishing regulations must be followed.
Participants can submit their entries through this link: go.illinois.edu/4HFishingTourney2023. Those who meet the eligibility requirements and follow the rules have the chance to win sweet, new spinning rod and reel prizes.
The Crappie challenge runs from April 1-30, 2023. The Largemouth Bass challenge will follow in May, and the Channel Catfish challenge will close out the tournament in June.
Winners of the Crappie challenge will receive new spinning rod/reel combos for first place and tackle kits for 2nd and 3rd places. However, only one prize maximum per person is allowed.
This tournament is a great way for 4-H members to showcase their fishing skills, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and learn more about fishing in Illinois. It promotes outdoor recreation and encourages young people to appreciate and conserve the state’s natural resources.
To be eligible for the tournament, participants must be a current year Illinois 4-H member and enrolled in a Sport Fishing Project. More details on how to participate can be found at go.illinois.edu/4HFishingTourney2023.
