It may be cold and it may be a slow time of year for fishing but there is a lot going on and a lot more coming up that outdoors readers should be aware of. Here goes:

Local Hunter Education Classes Set
VDGIF has changed up the way that you register for Hunter Education classes. Now you must register online. I am not sure what people do who do not have a computer. I also have heard that if the computer shows that the class is full then there are no additions since it is done online now. That makes it tough if someone does not show and there really is a seat. End result: Register as soon as you know you want to go. PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED AT,

www.huntfishva.com
Minimum age is 10 years of age,  Classes are free of charge
Here are the dates:
Feb. 25, 7 a.m.  – 6 p.m.
Montross Volunteer Fire Dept.
52 Rectory Rd.
Montross, VA. 22520
Class size — 40 students
Mar. 10, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Marshall Center
8800 Courthouse Rd.
Spotsylvania, VA. 22553
Class size- 100  students
Aug. 25, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
King George Parks And Recreation
8076 Kings Highway
King George, VA. 22485
Class size-100 students
Oct. 20, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
King George Parks And Recreation
8076 Kings Highway
King George, VA. 22485
Class size-100 students

Benefit Tournament for Kids Fishing Derby at Motts Run
Icebreaker Tournaments held on Sunday Feb. 26 and Mar. 10 from 7:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Entry Fee is $25 per team with $5 going towards the big fish. 70% payback with 30% going towards the kids. There is a trophy for the 1st place and big fish.

Rules — Two people per boat, 5 fish limit (culled prior to weigh in) Live well or cooler, 10” or larger, artificial bait only and no drugs or alcohol permitted. Jon boat rentals available. Contact: Ray Thomas (540) 898-7542, Dickie Musselman (540) 785-8087, Steve Tinsley (540) 752-5716.

I don’t normally dedicate space to tournaments but this tournament is for a worthy cause—hooking kids on fishing. I have been out to the Kids’ Days a few times. The place is alive with kids wanting to see, touch and catch fish. It is a well-run event and heavily attended each year. If you think you are a good bass angler (or pike angler too) consider going out to Motts during the cold weather to prove it. You won’t find pressured fish but you will have to change up your tactics and your attire to get in the winnings!

Spotswood Baptist Church Wild Game Dinner
Jan. 28 is scheduled to be the annual Wild Game Dinner. This year there is an outdoors expo included. Starts at 2 p.m. at Fredericksburg Christian School High School Campus. Look for 3-D archery, turkey calling, casting for kids, chili contest and some guest speakers to include Wade Nolan. It is free, but potluck for three is requested. This is a family event. Questions?  Kirk Horton is the POC at (540) 834-7467

Mark Fike