Free family fishing event hooks kids on the outdoors
WASHINGTON, DC – May 12, 2016 — On May 14, more than 300 kids and volunteer fishing instructors will take to a specially stocked part of the C&O Canal near Fletcher’s Boathouse for the Department of Energy and Environment’s 9th annual Family & Youth Casting Call.
The Family and Youth Casting Call provides DC-area youth the opportunity to try their hand at fishing with the assistance of free expert instructors. Bait and loaner fishing gear are provided at no cost. In addition to fishing, the event includes several environmental education activities from fish printing and knot tying to fly casting and fly tying instruction. There will also be a fish planking demonstration and the opportunity for participants to learn about the American Shad, an important native fish. Local conservation organizations will be on hand to provide information on the District’s local aquatic resources and how residents can get involved in preserving and protecting these important environmental assets.
“By enabling families to bring their kids fishing for the first time, we are helping connect these residents to the natural resources in their community,” said Teresa Rodriguez, Wildlife Management Branch Chief for the Department of Energy and Environment. “When we help youth experience an outdoor activity like fishing, we are fostering the next generation of environmental stewards.”
What: Family & Youth Casting Call Youth Fishing Event
When: Saturday, May 14, 2016, 10am - 4pm
Where: Fletcher’s Cove on the C&O Canal
4940 Canal Road NW
Washington, DC 20007
More Info: 2016 Family & Youth Casting Call
The event is free to the public and no registration is required. The Family and Youth Casting Call is an all-volunteer event hosted by the Department of Energy & Environment, made possible with assistance from local business and organizations, including: National Park Service, US Fish & Wildlife Service, Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin, Trout Unlimited, LL Bean, ArtReach, Alice Ferguson Foundation, and the Washington Canoe Club.
Media are encouraged to attend. Please contact Julia Robey Christian at (202) 450-7878 or [email protected] to make arrangements.
CONTACT: Julia Robey Christian, PIO, (202) 741-0842 desk, (202) 450-7878 cell, [email protected]
