Youth get hooked on fishing

Youth from across Nova Scotia are baiting their hooks and heading to the province's fishing spots as part of the Learn to Fish (L2F) program.

The Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture initiative was developed two years ago to promote interest in sportfishing among young people in the province The first of 32 workshops has just been completed with the rest scheduled at schools throughout the province.

Youth age eight to 12 participate in a classroom presentation of an introduction to freshwater sportfish in Nova Scotia. It includes how to identify sportfish, habitat requirements, human impact with a focus on an appreciation of the aquatic environment and angling education.

"The department is pleased, once again, to offer the program to schools, youth group, clubs and recreation camps throughout the province," said Fisheries Minister Ron Chisholm. "We look forward to working with a variety of sportfishing organizations to help make this program a success.

"Fishing is an healthy activity that can be enjoyed at any age. Most anglers today can remember their first fishing trip and how they felt when they were reeling in their catch. This provides youth with everything they need to make sportfishing a memorable activity."

Students are introduced to equipment and tackle procedures and learn to assemble a fishing rod, tie knots and attaching spinners and bobbers.

Then comes the fun of the hands-on sportfishing component. At a nearby pond or lake, students participate in safety-based casting demonstrations and receive hands-on casting assistance with open- and closed-faced reels. Students learn to bait and set their hook, and how to reel in their catch.

The program recruits the next generation of stewards for aquatic resources by teaching safe and ethical angling skills. Participants receive an information package with stickers, pencils, sportfish posters and information on local places to go fishing.

For more information, go to the department website at www.gov.ns.ca/fish/sport fishing/ or call the department's inland fisheries division at 902-485-5056. - Submitted