Last chance to register for Cops-n-Bobbers

By Brandi Makuski

Families interested in this year’s Cops-n-Bobbers free fishing event need to register by May 20.

The 14th annual event is moving from Bukolt Park in Stevens Point to Plover’s Lake Pacawa Park. The event will begin at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 3.

Cops-n-Bobbers is an attempt to get kids “hooked” on fishing—and have positive interaction with local law enforcement.

The program was launched in 2008 by Plover Police Officer Seth Pionke and Portage Co. Deputy Eric Koepsell. The event provides children ages 3-15 and their parents a chance to enjoy a free day of catch-and-release fishing with local law enforcement.

Along with Plover police and the PCSO, officers from the Stevens Point Police Dept., Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources, UWSP Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies will also be participating in the event.

Pionke said the program is funded in part by a grant from the Stevens Point Elks Lodge No. 641. The Lodge will also provide a free lunch for all attendees.

Lake Pacawa Park has seen several improvements in recent years, with the construction of a splash pad, updated shelters, bathrooms, and walking paths, and improvements to the water quality.

Pionke said there are plenty of panfish, bluegill, and bass in the lake for kids to lure in during the catch-and-release tournament.

There is no cost to participate, and no fishing license is required as the event is always held during WisDNR’s free fishing weekend, but registration is required.

Lunch and t-shirts will be provided, along with a limited amount of fishing equipment upon request, and fishing bait.

Registration is required by May 20. To register, email Pionke at [email protected] and include your name, number of attendees, t-shirt sizes for kids (youth and adult S-XXL), and contact information.