Families invited to June 7 Cops-N-Bobbers at Lake Pacawa

By Brandi Makuski

PLOVER – Registration opens Monday, April 7, for the 16th annual Cops-N-Bobbers event, returning to Lake Pacawa Park on June 7.

The free fishing event is organized by Portage County law enforcement, including the Portage County Deputy Sheriffs Association, Stevens Point Police Officer’s Association, and Plover Police Department, in partnership with the Stevens Point Elks Lodge 641.

Held during Wisconsin’s free fishing weekend, the event introduces children to fishing while fostering positive relationships with local officers.

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. on the day of the event, followed by a catch-and-release tournament from 9 to 11 a.m. Lunch and prizes will be offered from 11 a.m. to noon.

No fishing license is required. Bait and equipment will be available, though participants are welcome to bring their own. Children who register in advance will receive a free T-shirt.

Cops-N-Bobbers was launched in 2008 by Deputy Eric Koepsell and Officer Seth Pionke to share their love of fishing with local kids and their families and to offer youngsters a positive interaction with local law enforcement.

The Elks Lodge is providing a grant to support the event and will assist officers from multiple agencies—including the Wisconsin State Patrol, UW-Stevens Point Police, and the Department of Natural Resources—with registration, food service, and other activities.

Registration is available at https://forms.gle/PGyiRzq8dZfe6dJk6.

For more information, contact Officer Seth Pionke at 715-345-5255 ext. 158 or [email protected].