The spring season can be one of the best times of the year for freshwater fishing.

As the water temperature warms, the bass, crappie, bluegill, and other warm water fish become more active and need to feed more frequently.

They move into the shallows, where they become easier for the fisherman to find them.

Spring is the ideal time of year to introduce a young person to the sport of fishing.

Sunday, April 20 is the date for the annual George Carl Kids Fishing Derby at Lake Hennessey.

Named after the man who founded the event 39 years ago, the derby is open to all children between the ages of 3 and 16.

There is no cost to enter the derby, and all participants receive a certificate of participation.

Four different categories of fish can be caught — trout, bass, bluegill/crappie, and “other.”

Each young fisherman may enter fish in any or all of the categories.

The Department of Fish & Game will be making a special planting of rainbow trout on the morning of the derby.

Entrants are divided into one of three age groups: 3 to 7, 8 to 11, and 12 to 16 years old.

Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult who carries a California fishing license.

The young fishermen can take their catches to the official measuring station, which will be set up near the launch ramp. Fish can be measured anytime between 6 a.m. and 12 p.m., when the derby closes.

No entries will be admitted after the noon closing.

“The George Carl Kids Fishing Derby is an exciting opportunity for parents and children to enjoy a day on the lake,” said event chairman Jason Holley.

“We look forward to putting on the event each year and making it a fun day for the kids.”

After all entries are recorded, the event crew tabulates the winners.

Trophies are awarded for the top three fish in each category and age group. A vast array of fabulous prizes also awaits the winners, thanks to generous donations from Sweeney’s Sports and WalMart.

The organizers would also like to thank Sir Speedy Printing, Gaw Van Male and Commercial Power Sweep for their vital contributions to the event.

The event is put on by the Active 20-30 Club of Napa, a community service organization dedicated to helping special-needs children.

Visit the club’s Web site, www.napaactive2030.org, for more information, or call 253-2030.

First Turkey Hunt

This year’s turkey opener was a day 10-year-old Justin Bruce will always remember. Having just earned his hunting license one week earlier, this was his very first hunt as a shooter.

Armed with his .410 gauge shotgun, Justin joined his father, Robert, and grandfather, John, for a hunt on their property near Lake Berryessa.

They hid patiently for nearly two hours, all the while listening to gobblers approaching from different directions.

Then in came this big tom with an 8-inch beard, and Justin nailed him!

Guy Carl is a CPA and partner with BDCo Accountants and Advisors in St. Helena. Contact Guy at GC.outdoors@sbcglobal.net.