Potawatomi Wildlife Park hosts Pancake Breakfast and Free Fishing Derby this Saturday

Start your Saturday morning with pancakes by a campfire, then cast a line for prizes. Potawatomi Wildlife Park is hosting its annual Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser and Fishing Derby this Saturday, September 12.

The morning kicks off with a Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser from 7:00 to 9:00 a.m. near Bessinger Pavilion, where volunteers will serve fresh-made pancakes and sausage links. There is no set price — visitors are asked to bring what they can, whether it's $1, $2, $10, or more. Every donation is appreciated and goes toward supporting the park.

After breakfast, the action moves to the Visitor Center for the Annual Fishing Derby. There is no registration fee — the event is completely free. Participants check in, choose their fishing division, and receive a free raffle ticket.

Then it's time to find a spot along Pond 5. Staff and volunteers will be on hand to help, whether you've been fishing your whole life or it's your first time. Don't have a fishing pole? The park will have some available to borrow at check-in.

Anglers can cast their lines, enjoy the view and the company, and reel in a few fish. When you make a catch, bring it to be measured and find out whether your name makes the leaderboard.

Fishing wraps up at noon, followed by the awards ceremony featuring more than 50 raffle prizes and over $1,000 worth of prizes. By around 1:00 p.m., visitors will be headed home — hopefully with a prize, a few good fishing stories, and some new memories.

The event is open to all ages and experience levels. Food, fishing games, and activities will be available throughout the morning.