A day on a 'great' lake

PORT CLINTON — Lake Erie was put in the spotlight on Thursday. Dozens of legislators, officials and others spent several hours on Lake Erie fishing for walleye. It was part of the 42nd anniversary of Governor's Fish Ohio Day. About 20 charter boats went out on the lake. For some participants, it was their first time visiting Lake Erie. Randy Chenault, a constituent liaison for Congressman Steve Chabot, is from the Cincinnati area. He enjoys fishing for catfish and bass, but hadn't been to Lake Erie until this event. He headed out on a boat with Captain John Tucholski, of J.T. Sport Fishing Carters, along with Lake Erie fisheries program administrator Travis Hartman, State Rep. Brett Hillyer and Shores & Islands Ohio president Larry Fletcher. Without captains like Tucholski and several sponsors — Ohio Division of Wildlife, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Shores & Islands Ohio and the Lake Erie Charter Boat Association — the Governor's Fish Ohio event would not be possible. Chenault was eager to partake in the educational experience the event provides. There were discussions about the commerce the lake produces and how the lake attracts tourists. While on a boat, Chenault cast out his fishing line, reeled it back in, cast again and reeled it back. After some time, he had a bite and hooked a fish. It was the first walleye he's ever caught. "There's a thrill that comes with catching a fish," he said. "It's awesome." Chenault hopes to attend next year's event. "It's unbeatable when you have people from all over Ohio come out and enjoy the same experience on one of the Great Lakes," Chenault said. Hartman and Hillyer also said they liked seeing the community come together and having fun while on the lake. "This is a way to showcase all the efforts that go into managing the lake," Hartman said. Many state agencies work together to help the lake continue to thrive. Hartman appreciated Governor Mike DeWine's attendance and enthusiasm as he also participated in the day's activities. Now, Chenault is excited to go fishing again. "This experience has really opened my eyes to become more of a fisherman," he said.