Fishing season opened April 4 in Schuylkill County, but fishing the Little Schuylkill could mean a big prize for registered participants in the Tamaqua Chamber's Seventh Annual Trout Derby.

The derby will begin at noon on May 2 and run until noon on June 14, according to event organizers.Registered anglers will have the opportunity to catch one of many prize-winning tagged trout during the six-week derby. The derby is open to all ages, but anglers 16 and older must have a valid Pennsylvania fishing license and trout stamp to participate.All anglers must comply with the laws set forth by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.The prize-winning, tagged trout will be stocked for the derby in cooperation with the Schuylkill Trout Stocking Association, and registered anglers will be eligible to win prizes, including the grand prize of a trip to Caiger's Resort, 1000 Islands, Canada, which includes a personal fishing guide for two days. Only tagged trout will determine the prizes awarded.Prize-winning tags must be presented to Tom's Auto Body & Marine by noon on June 14 to be considered for prizes. Registered anglers will also be eligible to win a variety of door prizes after the derby closes. A nominal registration fee is required to participate, and all ages are eligible to participate."The Chamber's Trout Derby is unique in that it gives everyone six full weeks to enjoy fishing in the Little Schuylkill. It's a great opportunity for kids and adults to enjoy one of the greatest natural resources we have in this area our trout streams," said Tom Banditelli Sr., event chairman.Preregistration is required to be eligible to win any of the prizes.Forms are now available at Tom's Auto & Marine in Tamaqua or at the Tamaqua Chamber office during normal business hours. A registration table will also be set up from 8 a.m. to noon on May 2 at the north end of Tamaqua, along Route 309, across from All American Jeep. No registrations will be accepted after noon on May 2."I encourage everyone to give it a try this year, just be sure to register before the deadline. Last year, a tagged trout was caught by someone who failed to register and we could not award the prize," Banditelli said.The chamber encourages participation in the ongoing efforts of Schuylkill Trout Unlimited throughout the year and is currently selling Schuylkill County Trout Unlimited "I Helped Stock" buttons to support their trout stocking in the county."Without SCTU, our Derby and fishing in Schuylkill County wouldn't be possible." Stocking for the derby will begin at noon on May 2.More information on the Derby or SCTU is available by contacting 570-668-5066 or 570-668-1880.