Despite the rainy weather, families from across Lubbock and the South Plains gathered at Buddy Holly Lake Saturday morning to participate in the 9th Annual “Vamos a Pescar, Let’s Go Fishing” event.

Los Hermanos Familia, a collaborative group of men and women, organizations, and volunteers who value God, family, and community, held the free fishing event Saturday. The effort of Vamos a Pescar is to encourage children and families to enjoy more family time and the sport of fishing.

Vamos a Pescar was established to honor the last wish of Gonzalo Garcia after he had heart surgery. Frank Garcia, his son, started Vamos a Pescar with his wife Christy as an event to learn about fishing and also bond as a family.

“We are excited to bring this free event back to families in our community once again,” said Frank Garcia, co-chair.

Garcia added that organizers worked tenaciously to assure the families a great time, and keep it free to assure that the families are not hindered by cost and give them a  chance to build memories.

Buddy Holly Lake, which is located west of University Avenue, was stocked with fish prior to the event.

Participants were encouraged to bring fishing gear and necessary items to protect themselves from the elements, and enjoy the day out for fishing.