Each year, just after the Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby gets underway, the next generation takes center stage.

On Sunday, Sept. 22, the Kids Derby Day takes place for kids ages 4 to 14. The event is free and no registration is needed. But early rising is essential.

The kids derby takes place from 6 to 8 a.m. at the Oak Bluffs Steamship Wharf. It’s a once-a-year moment, when the wharf becomes the best fishing hole on the Island, perfect for getting kids hooked on fishing. Just drop a line from anywhere out on the wharf and let nature take its course.

Bait is available, plus expert advice on hooking, releasing and telling whopper stories about the one that got away. Myth making is an essential part of any fishing trip. So are prizes and they will be there too.

For more information, visit mvderby.com.

And after the kids derby sign up for the real thing. No sense in dousing fishing fever after it has been let out of the tackle box.