Laredo's Annual Fishing Derby Returns for Students with Special Needs

The 33rd annual event at Lake Casa Blanca State Park aims to provide a fun outdoor experience for children and youth with special needs.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 5:36pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph of children fishing at a lake, with soft, warm pools of light and color creating a dreamlike, atmospheric scene that captures the inclusive and celebratory spirit of the event.The annual Laredo Community First Fishing Derby offers a joyful outdoor experience for children and youth with special needs, fostering inclusion and family togetherness.Laredo Today

The Laredo Community First Fishing Derby, an annual event that provides children and young adults with special needs the opportunity to enjoy a day of fishing and outdoor activities, is returning on May 2nd at Lake Casa Blanca State Park. The event is sponsored by various local organizations and agencies, and features competitions, food, and support from law enforcement to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for the participants.

Why it matters

The fishing derby is the only event of its kind in Texas, offering a unique opportunity for children and youth with special needs to participate in outdoor recreational activities that may not be readily available to them. The event promotes family togetherness and fosters an inclusive community by providing a fun and supportive environment for individuals with special needs.

The details

The 33rd annual Laredo Community First Fishing Derby will take place on Saturday, May 2nd at Lake Casa Blanca State Park. The event is primarily sponsored by Laredo Community First, Judge Danny Valdez, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and the Inland Fisheries Division. The state will donate approximately 600 catfish for the children to catch during the derby. Competitions will be organized, and participants can be awarded for catching the biggest fish or the most fish. The event will also provide breakfast and lunch for the attendees, with support from local businesses like Gold's Gym and Pizza Hut.

  • The 33rd annual Laredo Community First Fishing Derby will take place on Saturday, May 2, 2026.
  • The event was not held for at least two years during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The players

Laredo Community First

The primary organizer of the annual fishing derby for children and youth with special needs.

Judge Danny Valdez

One of the key sponsors and organizers of the Laredo Community First Fishing Derby.

Texas Parks and Wildlife

A sponsor and partner organization that provides support for the fishing derby, including the donation of approximately 600 catfish for the event.

Inland Fisheries Division

A sponsor and partner organization that supports the Laredo Community First Fishing Derby.

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What they’re saying

“The state donates about 600 catfish so the children can catch fish. Our goal is for children with special needs to have fun.”

— Judge Danny Valdez, Organizer of the Laredo Community First Fishing Derby

“This is the only fishing derby in Texas that focuses on children with special needs, and it started when there weren't many activities available for them.”

— Judge Danny Valdez, Organizer of the Laredo Community First Fishing Derby

What’s next

The Laredo Community First Fishing Derby will take place on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Lake Casa Blanca State Park. Registration for the event begins at 8:30 a.m., and the entrance is through Ranchito Road.

The takeaway

The Laredo Community First Fishing Derby is a unique and inclusive event that provides children and youth with special needs the opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled day of fishing and outdoor activities. The event's long-standing tradition and the support of various local organizations and agencies demonstrate the community's commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals with special needs.