Sullivan AMBUCS opens Big Jim’s fishing derby to more children
•September 2, 2026•
by Jamie Crosier
A fishing derby created in memory of a Sullivan man who spent years sharing his love of fishing and serving his community will welcome more children this year.
Sullivan AMBUCS will hold the fourth annual Big Jim’s Kids Fishing Derby from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 26, at the west entrance of Woods Lake on County Road 1000 E. in Sullivan. The free event is open to children ages 12 and younger, regardless of where they live.
The derby honors the late Jim “Big Jim” Bales, who died in February 2022. His grandson, Brock Bales, who is helping organize the event, said fishing was one of his grandfather’s favorite pastimes.