NPAA members Theresa Meade #161 and Willy O’Connell #377 hosted the Chain of Lakes Youth Fishing and Family Day on the Fox Chain in Antioch, Illinois, on August 16th. Theresa, the founder of this annual event, has been the organizer and coordinator for the past 8 seasons. Other NPAA members participating were Jim McDonald #416 and Jasen Shine #914.

 

The day saw 68 youths fishing for the first time.  Every contestant was able to fish from boats this year!  About 300 adults also participated in some way – driving the boats, helping the youth anglers, teaching classes, and running the games, activities, and food booths, not to mention being very proud parents, grandparents and friends! 

NPAA 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 seminar by NPAA member Willy O’Connell on Aquatic Invasive Species; the problems that they cause, and how “Clean, Drain and Dry” will help to eliminate them. That informative talk was followed by proper bait presentation and the use of slip bobbers by Lincoln Buchanan and Jeff Greene. 

After the seminar and rules meeting, the National Anthem was beautifully sung by Janice DeWaal. With excitement in the air, 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, scrambling to get 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 and awards, with Big Fish awards in the categories of Walleye, Bluegill, Perch, Carp, Striped Bass, Crappie, Sheephead, Catfish and Large Mouth Bass.  Big Fish Trophies and Medallions for this event were donated by O’Connell; a variety of prizes large and small were donated by many other companies and sponsors.

A special thanks to the NPAA for donating the Young Tournament Angler “Future Pro” shirts (which were the hit of the day), Go Fishing Educational Books, and Rod/Reel combos.  

Thanks also to Lund Boats, Fox Lake Harbor, Kunes Country Ford in Antioch, Stow Master Nets, Norseman Outdoors, Port of Blarney, State Bank of the Lakes, Mid West Outdoors, Walleye Federation, Robinsons Wholesale, Triangle Sports, Chain of Lakes Sports, CJ Smith, and RJ’s Eatery, along with many other donors and tons of volunteers!

Events like Youth and Family Fishing Days encourage adults to continue promoting children’s interests in fishing and many other outdoor activities.  Many thanks to everyone that has helped over the years to make this a successful event! Not only the kids but their families look forward to this every season; it’s all about caring for the outdoor future of our country’s young people!