PEDRO — With every other advertisement on TV highlighting a product designed to keep kids indoors, officials with the Ironton Ranger District of the Wayne National Forest seeks to get them back outside with fun, games and old-fashioned competition.

The Kids Fishing Derby at Lake Vesuvius is designed to give kids and their families the opportunity to go out to the lake and enjoy nature, Patrick Mercer, wildlife biologist, said. The event is scheduled to start at 9 a.m. and end at 1 p.m.

“We think this is a good introduction to the outdoors for those kids who spend a lot of time inside,” Mercer said. “We will have activities and lunch during the event to help provide distractions for the younger kids who may get bored with fishing after a couple of hours.”

The competition consists of two categories, most fish caught and biggest fish caught. Mercer said kids 4 to 15 years old can participate and will be broken down into age groups to keep it fair and fun for all those involved.

It is requested participants bring their own fishing gear, but some poles and bait will be available for children who do not have their own, a Wayne National Forest release stated. The release also mentioned those who attend to dress appropriately for the weather and bring hats and sunscreen.

The Lake Vesuvius boat ramp will be closed during the event, but is expected to re-open by 2 p.m.

Those seeking more information can contact the Wayne National Forest Ironton Ranger District at (740) 534-6500.