US Paintsville Tourism Commission Secures Thirty Two Thousand Five Hundred Dollars in Strategic Sponsorships to Enhance Fishing Events and Boost Local Tourism at Iconic Paintsville Lake

Published on April 28, 2025

The Paintsville Tourism Commission approved $32,500 in sponsorships for key fishing events at Paintsville Lake, driving local tourism and fostering community involvement.

On April 21, during the regular meeting of the Paintsville Tourism Commission, members voted to approve sponsorships totaling $32,500 for two key fishing events at Paintsville Lake. These events are an integral part of the community’s efforts to promote local tourism, drive regional engagement, and provide an opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to participate in activities that highlight the natural beauty of the area. The funding decisions are part of an ongoing initiative by the commission to invest in community-based events and attract tourists to the region.

The commission approved a $25,000 sponsorship for the highly anticipated annual “Casting for Kids” fishing tournament. This event, which has become a cornerstone of the local fishing scene, serves not only as a competitive tournament but also as a charity fundraiser aimed at supporting local youth programs. Casting for Kids draws participants from various regions, boosting tourism in Paintsville as visitors come to compete in a friendly but fierce tournament while also raising funds for the community. The sponsorship ensures the continuation of this well-established tradition and helps the event maintain its reputation as a key local attraction.

In addition to the major sponsorship for Casting for Kids, the commission also approved a $7,500 allocation for the annual stocking of shad at Paintsville Lake. This initiative is led by the organization Anglers for Improving Opportunities, which works to enhance the fishing experience at the lake by maintaining a healthy, balanced ecosystem. Stocking shad in the lake is essential for preserving the natural food chain that supports various fish species, ensuring the longevity of fishing opportunities at the lake for both recreational and professional anglers. By providing this financial support, the commission is helping preserve the quality of the lake’s ecosystem while fostering an environment conducive to outdoor recreation.

During the commission meeting, Chairman Jerry Daniel raised an important question regarding the potential for other organizations or groups to request funding before the fiscal year concludes. This inquiry sparked a broader discussion on the availability of resources within the commission’s budget, particularly as the fiscal year draws to a close. The commission had already allocated funding to several initiatives, but members were concerned about the possibility of more requests coming in, especially as community activities tend to increase during the warmer months. Ensuring there were adequate funds to cover these potential requests was a priority for the commission members as they strategized for the remainder of the fiscal year.

Commissioner Nelson, in response to the discussion, pointed out that there might be a way to reallocate funds to meet the growing demand for sponsorships. He proposed transferring $5,000 from the $20,000 designated for special events into the sponsorship fund. This move would provide enough flexibility to approve both the $25,000 sponsorship for Casting for Kids and the $7,500 sponsorship for the shad stocking project, which would otherwise have exceeded the available budget. Nelson’s proposal was discussed in detail, and after a brief deliberation, the motion was approved unanimously by the commission. This decision reflected the commission’s commitment to supporting local events that not only enhance the community’s experience but also help drive tourism to Paintsville.

In addition to the discussion of sponsorships, the meeting also included an update from the Paintsville Lake Historical Association, which is responsible for overseeing the Mountain HomePlace—a site of significant historical value. This association, composed of all the members of the tourism commission, regularly provides updates on the region’s cultural and historical initiatives. On this occasion, Parsons, along with farm manager Jimmy Brewer, reported on the success of the annual Easter Egg Hunt, which took place on April 19. This event, traditionally held each spring, attracted large crowds of both locals and visitors, marking a successful start to the spring tourism season in Paintsville.

The Easter Egg Hunt has become a beloved tradition, particularly for families, and it provides a fun and engaging way for visitors to experience the community spirit of Paintsville. The success of the event was evident not only in the high attendance but also in the positive feedback received from participants. The event’s success has contributed to the growing popularity of Paintsville as a destination for families, reinforcing the importance of community-driven tourism initiatives in attracting visitors.

The combination of the Casting for Kids fishing tournament, the annual shad stocking initiative, and the Easter Egg Hunt represents a diverse approach to promoting tourism in Paintsville. By supporting a variety of events—ranging from sports tournaments to cultural celebrations—the Paintsville Tourism Commission is working to create a well-rounded tourism offering that appeals to a broad range of visitors. Whether tourists are looking for outdoor recreation, cultural experiences, or family-friendly activities, Paintsville has something to offer.

The sponsorships approved by the commission are a clear reflection of the region’s strategic approach to tourism development. Rather than focusing on just one type of event or target audience, the commission is investing in a variety of initiatives that contribute to the local economy, foster a sense of community, and create lasting memories for visitors. Each event sponsored by the commission plays a vital role in enhancing Paintsville’s reputation as a welcoming and vibrant destination for both locals and tourists alike.

As part of its broader strategy to develop tourism, the Paintsville Tourism Commission is also focused on sustainability and long-term growth. Supporting environmentally conscious initiatives, such as the shad stocking project, aligns with the commission’s goal of maintaining the region’s natural resources while promoting outdoor activities like fishing. By balancing the needs of the community with environmental sustainability, the commission is positioning Paintsville as a forward-thinking destination where nature and tourism coexist harmoniously.

Furthermore, the success of these sponsorships is closely tied to Paintsville’s growing reputation as a prime location for outdoor and recreational tourism. Located in the heart of Kentucky, Paintsville Lake is one of the area’s most treasured natural attractions, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, and more. The investment in these events enhances the lake’s appeal to tourists, while simultaneously benefiting the local economy through increased visitor spending on accommodations, dining, and other services.

The Paintsville Tourism Commission’s approval of these sponsorships is a testament to its proactive approach in ensuring that the community continues to thrive as a tourist destination. By supporting a range of events that appeal to different interests, the commission is fostering an inclusive tourism environment where visitors of all ages and backgrounds can find something to enjoy.

As Paintsville continues to develop as a tourist destination, it is clear that the commission will remain a driving force behind the community’s growth. Whether through sponsorships, strategic investments, or community engagement, the Paintsville Tourism Commission is dedicated to making the area a key player in Kentucky’s tourism landscape. With initiatives that celebrate the natural beauty of the region, support local businesses, and create enriching experiences for visitors, Paintsville is well on its way to becoming a must-visit destination in the United States.

Through these continued efforts, the Paintsville Tourism Commission ensures that the community is not only welcoming to visitors but also invested in creating lasting, positive impacts on the region’s economy and environment. Paintsville’s future as a premier destination for both recreation and tourism is bright, thanks in large part to the commission’s ongoing commitment to growth, sustainability, and community engagement.