Hook and lure

It was cloudy but great weather for fishing on Saturday, May 4, as approximately 200 people, youngsters along with their parents or grandparents, came out to enjoy the overcast skies and mild temperatures while fishing in a creek well stocked with trout. Thanks to an annual community service provided by the Warwick Valley Rod & Gun Club, families enjoyed another opportunity to "Take a Kid Fishing Day." And every boy and girl also received a valuable prize to take home.
Earlier that morning club members stocked approximately 300 to 400 trout in Wawayanda Creek on Baird Farm.
The picturesque farm, which has often served as a backdrop for television and print media commercials, has traditionally been the site of the annual event held for children who live in the Town of Warwick.
The event is provided for youngsters who may not have access to a stream.
"Take a Kid Fishing Day" was organized by club members for boys and girls under age 14 to give them an opportunity to enjoy the wildlife and environment surrounding their community.
"This was a great event," said parent Jimmy Mack, "I think events like this become more and more important every time a kid asks to play with an iPad or says, 'Can I watch TV?'"
Although many of the participants were successful, a child did not have to catch a fish to win one of the prizes awarded at the close of the event.
Since it is not a contest, it has been the practice for the club to award a prize to every participating child, whether the child was lucky that day or not. The prizes, most of which were donated by the local business community and other organizations and individuals, included fishing rod and reel combos, vests, tackle boxes, lures and other outdoor recreation items.
Contributions collected during the day and proceeds from the sale of food and refreshments will be used exclusively for next year's "Take a Kid Fishing Day."
- Roger Gavan