Tuesday, dozens of students, teachers and community members spent the day reeling in fish during the Rotary Club of Picayune’s Annual Fishing Rodeo.

The event focused on providing a fun, outdoor activity for special needs students in the Picayune School District.

“This is something these students look forward to the entire year,” Rotary club member Suzan Wilson said.

The event was held at the home of Tony and Sharon Paternostro in Carriere from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

During the event, Interact Club of Picayune worked in conjunction with the Rotary Club. Several students from the club volunteered to fish with the special needs students, said Allison Wheat, Interact Club advisor.

One of those high school students was senior Laine Walker. She assisted several special needs children, including high school student Kiara Trotter.

“This event’s a fun time where I get to know people and get to hang out with these kids,” Walker said. “It shows you how blessed you are and that you take so much for granted.”

Walker fished alongside Trotter, who was relishing in the glory of her first catch of the day.

“I like to go fishing and I like to play,” Trotter said. “I caught a baby fish earlier today.”

Pamela Fields, teacher at Picayune Memorial High School, said the event provides special needs children an opportunity to have fun.

“It means a lot to my students. Every year, they talk about it and can’t wait for it to come. While most other students can participate in regular field trips, some students don’t have that ability so this gives them the chance to,” Fields said.

Also in attendance were members from the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department, Picayune Police Department, Mayor Ed Pinero, State Representative Mark Formby, Pearl River County Board of Supervisors and the Mississippi Highway Patrol.

At the end of the day, students received a medal for their participation, Wilson said.