By: Art Pasley
If you remember last year's report, you know the small pond across the street is where all the action is, and this year was no different. The only change was participants from last year remembered where to go to catch fish, so the catching started much earlier. One unexpected surprise this year was the area around the "Bill Moffett C.A.S.T. for Kids Fishing Pier" on the main lake was netted off and stocked with over 300 various species of northern fish. Maybe they should have used southern fish because only a couple of the participants managed to catch anything in that area.
The "Bill Moffett C.A.S.T. for Kids Fishing Pier" was dedicated in his honor for his efforts to build the accessible fishing pier so everyone could enjoy a day at the lake. Reports of many fish being caught just days prior to the C.A.S.T. event around the pier encouraged many of the participants to continue fishing the area but to no avail. They just didn't want to bite today.
With strong winds and cool temperatures most the group of determined anglers, were able to feel the tug at the end of their lines. It's amazing how much excitement is generated by such a small amount of pressure from a fish no larger than your finger. As you can see from the pictures, we have perfected the image of fish size by holding them out as far as possible. We learned that from watching Roland Martin.
The entire Reclamation staff pulls together each year, along with volunteers from the Park Department to ensure everyone is well taken care of. Equipment, tackle, baiting hooks and food are all cheerfully provided as the "Special Thrills" continue throughout the morning.
"I'm very proud of our staff and the volunteers for making this such a great event for the participants" stated Denny Breitzman, Area Manager for Reclamation. "I enjoy this day more than any other and look forward to being here again next year" he concluded.
As the day came to a close and all the participants received their plaques in recognition for their efforts that day, I watched as everyone laughed and told stories of their day of fishing. That alone, is always a "Special Thrill" for me.
|
(Click on a picture to enlarge)
|
