OROVILLE – The Bible Faith Family Church in Oroville has organized a bass tournament open to young people ages eight to 16.

The youths will be further divided into two age groups – Ages eight to 12 and Ages 13 to 16. The kids will then form up into teams of two young people and a boat captain (non-fishing), said Pastor Claude Roberts, the tournament director.

There will be three tournament dates and lakes. The first will be at Whitestone Lake on June 21 with a registration time at 4 p.m. Fishing starts at 5 p.m. with the weight-in at 8:30 p.m. The second tournament date is July 19 at Palmer Lake. Registration is at 6 a.m. with fishing to start at 7 a.m. and weigh-in at 11 a.m. The third and final tournament date is Aug. 16 at Upper Conconully. Registration is at 6 a.m., fishing starts at 7 a.m. and weigh-in is at 11 a.m.

Trophies will be awarded for first, second and third place in each division. Following the Conconully Tourney the church will also be awarding a trophy to one of the young anglers from each of the divisions for the biggest fish caught.

“As a pastor who has enjoyed the sport of fishing bass tournaments for a number of years, the Lord has laid it on our heart to offer this sport to the young people in the area,” said Rev. Roberts.

“I have heard many moms and das say my kid would love to do that. And I have watched some young people at the weigh-ins and could see the desire in their eyes. Well with Christians who love to fish and are willing to give some kids of their time, I think we can make a good difference in the lives of some of our youth,” he adds.

Teams must provide a captain and boat, fishing tackle and life vest. Boats must have a live-well, homemade or factory. There is no registration fee, but donations are welcome for draw prizes.

Katie Dewitte and Jessica Walls will serve as the weigh masters.

More information is available by calling Rev. Roberts at (509) 476-4992 or Assistant Tournament Director Jim Barker at (509) 476-2632 or (509) 560-0901.