Kids Get Hooked On Fishing At Lake Metroparks

Kids from the "Hooked on Fishing -- Not on Drugs" day camp dropped their lines this Thursday at Lake Metroparks.

Even though many of the kids had never fished before, several of them caught the bluegill and bass in Penitentiary Glen's pons. More importantly, they had fun doing it.

The Hooked on Fishing program was developed more 20 years ago by the Future Fisherman Foundation. The national program uses angling skill development as a gateway to teach youth about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and how to deal with the challenges facing them in their young lives.

In addition to fishing, the participants learn to rig their own gear, equipment choices and casting, fish identification and ecology, aquatic habitats, fishing regulations and ethics, the effects of pollution, respect for one’s self and others, and many other life skills.

No fishing equipment or experience is needed.

Lake Metroparks is hosting another week of the day camp from July 16 to 20. Those who are interested in participating can register online or by calling 440-358-PARK.

The camp fee is $60, which covers bait, tackle, transportation and activity supplies.

Each camp is limited to the first 25 preregistered children who must be eight to 12 years old.

This unique camp receives support and assistance from the following agencies: Lake Metroparks Ranger Department, Lake County Narcotics P.L.U.S. Officers, Crossroads, Ohio Department of Natural Resources Fairport Fish Research Unit, Lake County Soil & Water, the North Coast Fly Fishers and the Alcohol Drug and Mental Health Services Board, as well as several volunteers.

Speaking of fishing, the park system recently stocked the lake at . However, you need a license to fish there. One does not need a license to fish, catch and release at Penitentiary Glen, Girdled Road or other parks. For more information, visit the Lake Metroparks fishing page.