Lots of fish tales

More than 200 participate in ‘Take a Kid Fishing Day’ at Baird Farm WARWICK - For a short time that morning, dark clouds and a brief shower may have caused some people to fear Saturday, May 6, the date of Warwick’s annual “Kid’s Fishing Day, would be wet in more ways than one. That, of course, wouldn’t have stopped any self-respecting fisherman or woman but, nevertheless, the skies cleared and it turned out to be a picture perfect day. Earlier in the morning, the Warwick Valley Rod & Gun Club, incorporated in 1945, stocked approximately 500 trout, including 10 “golden trout” in Wawayanda Creek on Baird Farm. The picturesque farm, which has often served as a backdrop for television and print media commercials, was again the site of the popular event held for children who live in the Town of Warwick. “Take a Kid Fishing Day,” organized by club members for youngsters under age 14, is provided annually for children who do not have access to a stream or the opportunity to enjoy the wildlife and environment surrounding their community. Although most of the approximately 200 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 some individuals, included fishing rod and reel combos, tackle boxes, lures and other outdoor recreation items. In recent years, as a result of the growth of the community, attendance at this event has grown dramatically. 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.”