Concordia introduces fishing to curious kids
JEFFERSON TWP — Western PA can be a tough place to enjoy outdoor recreation and nature activities. Beyond the hills and the rain, Butler temperatures this month have dipped into the thirties, while highs this week will approach 90.
That’s why families and volunteers were not surprised when close to 1,000 people turned out with their children for Concordia Lutheran Ministries’ annual fishing derby on Saturday, May 16, when the 70 degree temperatures and peaceful environment created the perfect setting for learning how to fish.
“We get people from all ends of the spectrum. We get people who have never fished before and they’re borrowing our poles and volunteers are showing them how to put a worm on a hook. We got that. Down to people bringing their own bait to catch a specific type of fish. It’s good to see everyone out here,” said Frank Skrip, Concordia’s public relations director.
The fishing derby gives anglers a chance to pass on their love of fishing and the outdoors to their curious and energetic children.
“This is our third year doing this. It’s just such a good time. It’s fun when you’re fishing here with everyone else as well,” said Tyler Trott, a Butler resident.
Trott was at the fishing derby with his daughter, Emma, and his son, Harrison.
“I used to live in Erie and I used to fish up there all the time. Since I’ve moved to Butler, I don’t fish as much; but I’m sure when my son get’s older, we’re going to start going out there,” Trott said.
The event, lasting from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., saw people lined around the lake at Concordia’s Addy Boy Lane property. With dozens of volunteers spread across 10 stations, children ran up to them to either get more bait or to excitedly have them measure the large-mouth bass, trout, bluegill, crappie or any other fish they just caught.
“I’m more of a hunter. I like deer hunting. But I came out with my son because I wanted to introduce him to fishing,” said Thomas Slater, a local resident. “It’s really good for young people and I want to give my son a variety of experiences. I’m originally from Michigan and we have a lot of lakes everywhere. I remember growing up and my dad bringing me fishing. I want to give him that experience.”
In addition to free hot dogs and drinks, the organizers awarded prizes every half hour to children for both the largest and the smallest fish caught. Concordia provided bait and fishing poles for those who needed. Bait was supplied by Sportsman’s Supply.
This is the 11th year Concordia has held the event.
“The fact that we’re able to offer an event like this that is free. It’s family oriented. It get’s people outside on a beautiful day like this. It gets people outside and into nature. It’s beautiful alongside the lake and people want to see it and be here,” Skrip said.
