On Saturday, July 19, 2025, the Greater Palm Harbor YMCA hosted its annual Kids Fishing Challenge at Wall Springs Park in Palm Harbor, FL. The event was open to kids ages 12 and under for a fun and educational catch-and-release fishing experience. This year’s event was a sellout with over 100 children in attendance!
The challenge offered three 45-minute fishing sessions, during which young anglers were provided with bait and poles and encouraged to cast their lines in hopes of catching the first, largest or smallest fish of the session.
Each participant also received a commemorative T-shirt, enjoyed arts and crafts, lunch and was entered into raffles and trophy contests, making it a well-rounded day of outdoor adventure, learning and family fun.
Beyond the fishing fun, the event emphasized outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship, providing kids with a hands-on opportunity to appreciate wildlife and learn about catch-and-release responsibility in a supportive, community-oriented setting.
Even more meaningful, all proceeds for the event will go to support the People Helping People Scholarship program, ensuring everyone has access to our YMCA programs and events.
Alex Delgado, the Executive Director at the Greater Palm Harbor YMCA, shares, “As someone still new to the branch, it was truly inspiring to meet so many of our members and see the community come together in such a meaningful way. The Kids Fishing Challenge was more than just fishing; it was about building connections, encouraging outdoor learning and creating lasting memories for families. I’m excited for what’s ahead and grateful to be part of a community that shows up and supports one another like this.”
If you missed this year’s Kids Fishing Challenge, don’t worry, we’ll be casting lines again next summer! Be sure to keep an eye on our events calendar for more exciting ways to get involved, including our upcoming Kids Triathlon, designed to keep kids active, confident and having fun.
Published Tuesday, July 29, 2025.