Call it the one that got away.

Because this year’s National Guard Western Division FLW Outdoors California Delta fishing competition moved from Oakley to Stockton in June, Oakley Councilman Bruce Connelley has asked for the council’s support in casting about for other tournaments to keep bringing revenue to the city and local businesses.

Connelley said at the Aug. 10 council meeting that he talked with outgoing FLW President Charlie Evans, who implied that while the organization enjoyed its years in Oakley, Stockton is a more profitable option and the California Delta competition will most likely stay in Stockton for future competitions.

Connelley presented the council with economic data to show how a fishing tournament will benefit the city financially, adding that he and Oakley Chamber of Commerce officials are pursuing leads to bring a different tournament to town.

“We have gone after another tournament through the U.S. Anglers Choice League,” he said. “And they’ve got the U.S. Choice Western League Tournament of Champions tour on the second of October, and it’s always been held in either Clearlake or Orville. They’ve always had smaller events out at Russo’s (Marina in Bethel Island), but this is the champions, which encompasses the entire West Coast with anglers from throughout the western states. … We’re trying to twist their arm right now to bring it to Oakley.”

A discussion of his proposal is scheduled for the council’s Sept. 14 meeting. The U.S. Anglers Choice League Pro-Am tournament will be visiting Russo’s Marina the weekend of Sept. 10 for the final event of its season.

In the meantime, for younger anglers (up to age 15) the Oakley Recreation Division will be hosting its seventh annual Kids Fishing Derby from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 18 at the Antioch/Oakley Pier. Prizes will be awarded for longest and smallest fish and most fish caught. No registration is required. Just bring a pole; bait will be provided. Pre-registration is available at Hook, Line & Sinker, 3100 Main St., or at Oakley City Hall, 3231 Main St. Registration will also be taken onsite.

In addition, the Oakley Recreation Division will host a free fishing seminar for all ages on Saturday, Sept. 4 at The White House, located at 204 Second St., from 10 a.m. to noon. The event is geared toward women and children seeking to learn about equipment, bait and how to cook your catch after a long, pleasurable day on the Delta. For more information, call the Recreation Division at 925-625-7041 or visit www.oakleyinfo.com.