Club brings back popular Father’s Day keiki fishing

NAWILIWILI — The family-friendly popular Father’s Day Keiki Fishing Tournament is back following a two-year closure because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This year’s event is at the Nawiliwili Small Boat Harbor from 10 a.m. until around 1 p.m. June 19.

Community sponsors for prizes are needed, and prize pickups from the community sponsors will take place between now and Saturday, June 11. Contributions beyond this date can be arranged by contacting the Nawiliwili Yacht Club.

“Gifts toward prizes are always appreciated,” said Fred Styer of the NYC. “Donations are extremely helpful to fill the prize bag with gifts that traditionally include small rod-and-reel combinations, tackle boxes, soccer balls and gift cards.

Keiki fishers register for $5 that includes lunch and an opportunity to vie for the many prizes available. Lunch traditionally includes a yacht dawg and cold drink. The audience supporting the young fishers are welcome to purchase lunch prepared by NYC volunteers.

Fishing on a catch-and-release basis is done around the perimeter of the Nawiliwili Small Boat Harbor. “NYC volunteers carefully supervise and monitor activities for safety and cleanup,” Styer said. “They are also tasked with measuring, categorizing and searching for the fish with unique prize-winning features such as biggest fish, ugliest fish and other categories that will ensure that as many keiki have a great fun day fishing while enjoying a day with family and friends.”

The NYC Father’s Day Keiki Fishing Tournament has been held since 2005, and following the shut down from the pandemic, this will be the club’s 15th keiki tournament.