Second annual Rainbow Trout Roundup set for Feb. 21
MURPHY (January 9, 2015) For those who subscribe to the notion that the number 21 is one of those “lucky” numbers that seem to bring good fortune, then circling Feb. 21 on the calendar is a must, says Special Events Coordinator Kayla McFarland.
“That’s the date of our second annual Rainbow Trout Roundup, and good luck will come in very handy that day,” she said. “The roundup, fast becoming one of the City’s most popular family-oriented events, is scheduled to start at 9 a.m. and continue until 11:30 a.m. However, we strongly encourage an early arrival for claiming the best spots.”
Early registration for the catch-and-keep roundup is now open at www.murphytx.org. Site of the event is the pond on the west side of City Hall, 206 North Murphy Road. Plentiful parking is available in the recently expanded City Hall lots.
“That morning, we will begin onsite registration at 8:30 a.m., however, people who’ve registered online will have more time to prepare for the start of the tournament,” she said. The tournament starts precisely at 9 a.m., and pre-registered competitors can bypass the registration table.
Limited fishing gear will be available onsite for borrowing, but anglers are encouraged to bring their own equipment. And while the actual tournament is exempt from licenses, anyone over 17 years of age who fishes outside of the tournament times is required to have a Texas Parks and Wildlife fishing license. Most sporting goods and Walmart stores, including the Murphy location, can issue these, or the licenses can be obtained online from the TPW site.
Awards for longest, shortest and heaviest stringer of five Rainbow trout will be presented in three categories; six years and younger; seven to 11 years; and 12 to 17. The Murphy Walmart, 115 West FM 544, is sponsoring the roundup and providing the awards.
In keeping with the day’s theme, Keep Murphy Beautiful will sponsor an education and awareness booth, sharing tips on water conservation and information on keeping Texas waterways clean and healthy. The City, in partnership with Keep Murphy Beautiful, is committed to maintaining clean waterways for recreation and enjoyment now and for future generations.
RaceTrac of Murphy will provide free coffee and hot chocolate.
“We’re hoping to break last year’s incredible record turnout,” said McFarland.