During National Fishing Week, June 5-13, 1999, the Jersey Coast Anglers Association’s Youth Education Committee visited the Fort Monmouth Youth Services Center to teach children about the joys of fishing. Educators at the Fort Monmouth Youth Service Center were very interested in developing a summer fishing program for children attending their summer session and having children learn the importance of protecting our aquatic resources.

Dr. Eleanor Bochenek, New Jersey Sea Grant Marine Advisory Agent, Sandy Hook, NJ presented a saltwater species identification seminar that taught children about how to recognize a variety saltwater fish. We were surprised that a great majority of younger students knew many species of saltwater fish and students were also familiar with saltwater fish habitat. Educators at the Fort Monmouth Youth Service Center are doing a fine job of teaching students about protecting our aquatic marine resources. Many fish posters and charts are displayed in classrooms for students to view.

James Steen, Veteran Saltwater Fly Caster taught children how to cast a saltwater fly and line retrieval techniques to work artificial baits.

Students from Bergen County enjoyed a National Fishing Week program that was presented by Dr. Eleanor Bochenek earlier in the day. Dr. Bochenek deserves plenty of credit for her assistance in satisfying the needs of our youth education programs and providing extra support during our busy NFW schedule.

Youngsters attending a group home in Monmouth County participated in a "Learn To Cast" session that was conducted by Greg Kucharewski.

The following video tapes were sent to the Hudson River Fishing Association: "Hooked on Fishing Not On Drugs", HOFNOD A Program That Works For Life, Fly Fishing Streams, Walker’s Cay Chronicals Fishing Venezuela, New Jersey Fish, Game & Wildlife "Fishing NJ", and Pathway’s To Fishing.

The JCAA Youth Education Committee also sent a rod holder that was designed to help disabled anglers fishing from a wheel chair.

Over 200 students at the Fort Monmouth Youth Service Center will participate in the 1999 Fort Monmouth Summer Fishing Derby. Students entering the Summer Fishing Derby will compete for prizes in the "Catch and Release" Youth Fishing Derby. Aquatic education seminars are held on Monday and Friday afternoons throughout the summer and students can sign-up for nature walks around Husky Brook Pond.

Check out Pequest Trout Hatchery. It’s a great outing for the whole family and there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Pequest Trout Hatchery & Natural Resource Education Center, 605 Pequest Rd., Oxford, NJ 07863-9748.

BE SAFE-HAVE FUN-ENJOY FISHING