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Youth Fishing Day baits kids, parents into bonding
Stephanie Eib
stephanie.eib@arizonarepublic.com
The Arizona Republic
Sept. 26, 2007 09:29 AM
Gilbert youths and their families will have the opportunity to enjoy hours
of free fishing in the Riparian Preserve's urban lake Oct. 6.
Youth Fishing Day will be from 8 a.m. to noon at the Riparian Preserve at
Water Ranch, at the southeastern corner of Greenfield and Guadalupe roads.
The fishing is open to all ages and skill levels.
"If they can hold a pole, they can fish," said Mary Hahn, a town recreation
coordinator. "We wanted to start an event for kids that had never learned
to fish - to teach them how to cast a line and bait. The kids really enjoy
it. It's a nice family event where kids and adults can come out and enjoy
the outdoors free of distractions."
The Arizona Game and Fish Department will provide fishing gear and bait to
the first 100 youths, with volunteers on hand to help instruct kids and
adults. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing gear but do
not need an urban fishing license.
The 15-foot deep lake has blue gill, largemouth bass and channel catfish.
Fish must be thrown back unless they are to be consumed, Hahn said.
A drawing will be held for prizes, including fishing equipment and gift
certificates.
The event drew about 450 people in 2005 and about 250 in 2006, Hahn said.
The idea began when the town wanted to bring more attention to the lake
behind the preserve, with an emphasis on kids spending time with their
families outdoors learning new recreational skills, she said.
"We wanted to provide a free event that parents didn't have to worry about
spending money on to have real bonding time with their kids. We want
parents to be able to enjoy the moment and talk to their kids while they
are fishing. It's great." |
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