NPAA Member Theresa Meade hosts Chain of Lakes Youth Fishing and Family Day
Aug 25th, 2011 by OutdoorsFIRST
Modified Aug 25th, 2011 at 12:00 AM
NPAA member Theresa Meade #161 hosted the Chain of Lakes Youth Fishing and Family Day on the Fox Chain in Antioch, Illinois on this past Sunday.
Theresa, founder of this annual event, has been the organizer and coordinator for the past 4 seasons. Other NPAA members participating were Willy O’Connell, #377, Scott Duncan, #197, Bill Sutton, # 619, Ron Levin, #179, Nick Ingoglia, #451, Joe Baron, #220 and Jasen Schine, #914. The day saw 91 youths fishing from 31 boats with over 25 Youths fishing from shore.
WWA club members and volunteers were ready for sign up by 7:00 am, with kids and their families already waiting in line to be a part of this event. Included in the day was a 30 minute seminar with NPAA members Scott Duncan and Ron Levin on fishing basics and safety that had the crowd listening and paying attention. Scott, who has the “Walleye Workshop” website along with Mike Gofron, recorded the event and made a video for everyone to enjoy. A 30 minute class was conducted by NPAA member Willy O’Connell, giving an informative mini seminar on line tying techniques. After the seminars and rules meeting, the National Anthem was played and the boats took off for a 4 hour day of fishing and fun.
With the weigh in scheduled for 1PM, the volunteers had their work cut out for them, getting everything in place. All of the entrants had the opportunity to be on stage, tell of their experience and show their catch. Every youth entered won fantastic prizes, with big fish awards in the categories of Walleye, Bluegill, Perch, Carp, Striped Bass, Crappie, Sheephead, Catfish and Large Mouth Bass. Medallions of achievement were placed on every participant and all won a variety of prizes which were donated by companies and sponsors for the event.
Thanks to the NPAA for donating 40 rod and reel combos, Young Tournament Angler pro shirts (which were the hit of the day), 40 Go Fishing Educational Books and 50 bobbers. Thanks to Gander Mountain for their generous support and donations, Kunes Country in Antioch for donating the medallions, Off Shore Tackle, Lund Boats, StowMaster Nets and many other donators and supporters. Events like Youth and Family Fishing Days encourage adults to continue promoting children’s interests in fishing and many other outdoor activities. Thanks to all involved because you are the one’s who care about the future of our country’s young!