Article and Photos by 

Annemarie Eveland 

The three Green Valley Lakes in Payson have always been a source of beauty and relaxation to me. Whether it was seeing people strolling leisurely around them, others sailing softly and quietly on their surfaces, or just anglers fishing from the edges of their sparkling waters, these public lakes are a genuine delight. People young and old continue to enjoy these bucolic, easily accessible lakes.

But when it came to fishing on April 26th, there was busy and exciting energy for the annual kids’ fishing festival day. This was the 19th year of this fun, popular free event for the community kids. The Let’s Talk Fishin’ event started at 8:00 a.m. and lasted until 2:00 p.m. at the largest Green Valley Lake. The event provided a completely free fishing day for kids, even supplying poles and bait. Free registration (required) was available at the park site, which included signing a consent form by a parent or guardian.

The weather was beautiful, and a little windy, but the fish were biting. The kids were eager to learn from the willing volunteer professional anglers who were available to help the “wanna be” beginner anglers learn proper fishing techniques. And there were photo ops, of course. You could get your photo taken with a professional angler and, of course, when the young person caught a fish, there were memorable photos taken with the successful catch.

Each of their catches were weighed and a photo of the proud little angler and an accompanying pro fisherman was snapped for prosperity. Kids also enjoyed sharing the excitement of each other’s catch too.

There were lots of FREE things included for the kids. First, registered children aged 10-17 received an annual fishing license.

And although participants were encouraged to bring their own fishing equipment, loaned equipment was available using an adult’s valid driver’s license or $20 refundable deposit.

A free gift was given to all registered kids, along with a free raffle ticket, and a free gift for each fish weighed in by kids. And for all the fishing kids, there was the free lunch of hot dogs, chips, and drinks. Since I was not a “fishing kid” I bought my tasty hot dog from the food vendor for a nominal $3.

To add to the festival, there was music and announcements provided by the local community KRIM radio station. I was pleased to hear that KRIM broadcasts “Let’s Talk Fishin’” every Friday evening.

I also noted that there were many sponsors. I counted at least 16 listed on the promo flyer. It was good to see so many businesses being supportive of such a worthy endeavor.

I briefly met and chatted with Tracy Purtee, who was heading up the special event, and I learned more about their ardent endeavors of having a successful event just for the kids’ enjoyment. I was glad to see this group of people so devoted to helping kids make a happy memory.

Ardent Pro anglers Tracy Purtee, Matt Shura and Kenny Meyers were a part of the team directing this fun fishing event for the kids. Tracy also gave his wife generous credit for preparing for this annual Kids’ Fishing Festival.

So, if you would like to know more about this fun annual fishing festival for next year, you can contact Tracy Purtee at email: letstalkfishin@gmail.com or visit their website: www.letstalkfishin.com.

Until the next fishing festival at Green Valley Park, may all your fishing adventure stories be memorable and true. And if you have a young friend or family member, invite them to go with you to next year’s fun Free Kids Fishing Festival!