Local kids and cops cast a line

OFAH FILE: 842
July 11, 2013

Local kids and cops cast a line
Youth to receive one-of-a-kind fishing experience

There’s no better feeling than catching your first fish. Unfortunately, not everyone has access to equipment or someone to go with. That’s why the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH), Peterborough Lakefield Community Police Service (PLCPS) and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough are teaming up to take a kid fishing.

On Tuesday, July 16 from 12:00pm – 4:00pm, 15 eager children who are currently on a waiting list to be paired with a big brother or big sister, will visit the OFAH|Mario Cortellucci Hunting and Fishing Heritage Centre for a tour, plus an afternoon of fishing at the Shimano Pond with a police officer as their mentor.

“Fishing is a fundamental part of our outdoor heritage, and it’s of huge importance to the OFAH to get youth involved in the outdoors from an early age,” said OFAH Executive Director Angelo Lombardo. “We’re excited to offer these children the opportunity to go fishing, in some cases, for the very first time. Just one fishing trip can inspire a first-hand appreciation for the outdoors, and can instill a lifelong dedication to conservation.”

The OFAH TackleShare program will supply the group with rods, reels and tackle; everything they need to get started and get the fish biting.

“The Peterborough Lakefield Community Police Service takes pride in our partnership with the OFAH and Big Brothers Big Sisters,” said PLCPS Communications Coordinator Constable Keith Calderwood. “The police officers enjoy taking their own personal time on days off to mentor a ‘Little,’ and help build positive relationships within our great community.”

“Big Brothers Big Sisters is fortunate to have the support of the OFAH and our local police service,” said Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough Executive Director Darlene Evans. “Events such as this provide youth from our membership an opportunity to participate in an activity that they may otherwise not be able to, and are introduced to a recreational sport they can enjoy into adulthood.”

The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters is Ontario’s largest, nonprofit, fish and wildlife conservation-based organization, representing 100,000 members, subscribers and supporters, and 710 member clubs. To learn more, visit www.ofah.org.

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