By Preston Robertson
The Federation held its 2nd Annual Kids’ Fishing Event at the FWF River Preserve on the Ochlocknee River on October 6. With perfect weather, happy children and even some laughing parents, the outing was a success. Supplied with free fishing poles courtesy of Fish Florida, the kids took to the dark water of the river, fishing for bream, catfish and bass. A couple of two-pound large mouths were caught and released (after some picture-taking). Several of the kids caught their first fish ever, and many enjoyed simply begin out in the woods. It was wonderful to see children enjoying themselves without a video screen in front of them. They got wet, dirty and sweaty and got a look at the beauty of the real Florida.
Notable events included having a four-foot alligator come up on the river bank and a tussle with a large channel catfish that resulted in both mother and daughter going into the river. The catfish got away.
We hope that all participants not only enjoyed themselves, but got an appreciation of our woods and waters. These youngsters may well be the conservation leaders of tomorrow.
Many volunteers from FWF helped make the day enjoyable. Many thanks to Pat Pearson, Jay Liles, Tessa Kleck, Danny and Jake Gwynn-Shapiro, Neal George and Karl Humm.
Riley (top) and Julia (bottom) Julia: “I’m gonna catch a fish this big!”
Malik with his catch
