It is sure to be a reel fun time this weekend during the Kids Fishing Derby set for 9 a.m. Saturday at Marilla Reservoir.

This is the fifth time members of the Bradford Community Pride Lions Club have hosted this family friendly event.

The excitement begins with registration held from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Fishing will begin at 10 a.m. and last until 2:30 p.m. Prizes will be awarded at 3 o’clock. The event will be held rain or shine.

“At 10 a.m. we will play the national anthem and then the kids can begin fishing from the banks,” said Deb Craft, vice president of the Bradford Community Pride Lions Club. “We don’t allow any boats or anything off the banks.”

To help keep things competitive, children will be divided into four age categories, with first, second and third prizes awarded in each age group. The groups will be from 5 to 7 years old, 8 to 10 years old, 11 to 12 years old and 13 to 15 years old.

“First place in each group gets a trophy and a bunch of prizes,” said Craft. “Second and third place get medallions and a bunch of prizes too.”

She said that this year’s prizes are some of the best yet.

“We really have to thank our amazing sponsors who have allowed us to make this event as special as it is,” said Craft.

The event is sponsored by the Blaisdell Foundation, American Refining Group, Graham Packaging, Love Toyota and Sportsman’s Outlet, among others.

“We usually like to give out fishing poles, tackle boxes, sleeping bags, different kinds of fishing and outdoor equipment and things like fake worms for bait,” said Craft. “We want to encourage the kids to spend some more time outside.”

Craft said her husband, club president Jim Craft, often mentions that kids should spend more time in nature, away from video games.

“That was kind of the idea behind starting this tournament,” said Craft. “We want to encourage kids and families to get away from the screens and go enjoy the outdoors.”

Even those who don’t fish are welcome to come out and join in on the excitement.

“There is nothing like seeing the kids’ faces light up when they catch a fish or come up to get a fish measured,” said Craft.

Every child who registers will get a numbered ticket. Throughout the event, organizers will pull numbers of children who can then go pick out a prize.

“They are always so polite and appreciative — thanking us for the wonderful prizes and a great day,” said Craft.

During the derby, children are visited by members of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.

“They come in and introduce themselves to the kids so they can see that they are not scary people but they are here to help,” said Craft. “They get right in there and help the kids take the fish off the hooks and measure the fish.”

Typically, the event attracts about 100 children. But even those who don’t fish are invited to come down and share in the fun.

Craft said, “It’s a great time to just get outside with your friends and neighbors.”