Kids ages 3 to 11 will swarm the river bank at Oconaluftee Island Park in Cherokee for the 10th annual Talking Trees Children’s Trout Derby on August 6.

Fishing poles and gear are provided, as well as instruction from experienced fishermen, allowing kids who have never fished before a chance to try their hand. Cherokee Fish and Game will stock 15,000 trout  prior to the event.

Registration is mandatory and slots go fast. Registration must be done in person the day before the event on Friday, Aug. 5, at the Cherokee Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Festivities during registration day include exhibits, food booths, Native American dancers and live music.

For any slots that are left, registration the day of the event will begin at 6 a.m.

Kids get free breakfast and lunch, with lots of prizes to go around. Fishing is held between 8 a.m. and noon.