A fantastic first fishing event

HURON — Those from Huron's parks and recreation department said they were thrilled to host a new event this year for kids interested in learning how to fish. Titled Fishing for Fun, the inaugural event occurred on Tuesday at the new Dancing Waters Park on Berlin Road in Huron. The family-friendly event: • Introduced kids, ages 6-12, to the basics of learning to fish in a safe manner • Kicked off with an educational presentation about the new park and pond • Covered different fish species, wildlife habitats, conservation and responsible fishing practices • Aimed to spark curiosity and appreciation for the outdoors and the new city park The 30 participants, who were accompanied by either a parent or guardian, were broken down into six small groups to work directly with an assigned skilled angler. Huron resident Julie Dively brought her great-nephew, CJ DeBold, 11, and his brother, Jaxon Kubach, 9, to the event. "They both show an interest in fishing, and I know nothing about it," Dively said. "I thought it would be nice for them to learn." Seasoned anglers taught them how to cast their line, when to reel in their catch and how to safely and properly release a fish back into the pond. All participants received their very own fishing rod and reel with a drawstring bag provided by the Wightman-Wieber Charitable Foundation, a tackle box provided by the Chris & Owen Kedas Memorial Foundation and a complimentary lunch provided by Huron's Cameo Pizza and Kona Ice. During the lunch break, representatives from Aqua Doc gave a demonstration on how they collect and test the water. "Fishing for Fun is an opportunity for children to connect with nature, learn new skills and create lasting memories with their families," said Doug Steinwart, director of Huron's parks and recreation department. The city department came up with this idea of hosting such an event after Huron purchased and remediated this 6.6-acre property on Berlin Road. Having a 3.5-plus-acre manmade, stocked pond, with a walking trail makes it the perfect venue to host a fish from shore educational event. Other sponsors making this event possible included Fish Huron, the Lake Erie Walleye Trail along with Central Basin Bait, Tackle and Carryout.