Nature kids go fishing at the refuge

SUSSEX — “Everyone should believe in something. I believe I’ll go fishing." Henry David Thoreau
And everyone did go fishing on Saturday Sept. 23, under bright blue skies and unusually warm weather contradicted by the pungent smell of autumn leaves, at the Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge at Owens Station Crossing.
About a dozen children ages five to 15 with varying experience at the sport had a blast baiting hooks, casting, reeling and cautiously removing caught fish and releasing them as part of a special program of the Friends of the Refuge. All equipment was provided by the refuge for the morning fishing event. Volunteer Karen Van Dyk and Van Dyk and Kinzel family volunteer members made sure every child was guided and helped in the art of fishing.
Pole safety, monitoring hooks and casting tips were relayed to the young fisher boys and girls. Two little girls fished like pros, casting with no problem and even baiting their own hooks with fat, juicy worms.
The large pond on the refuge property is not stocked but has its own bass, crappy and sunfish which according to experienced fishermen, probably wound up in the pond due to an overflow of the Wallkill River. The pond has also hosted other fishing parties like the disabled veterans and is an excellent spot for kayaking.
The Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge and the Friends group have always been a source for informative nature programs and family fun activities. An upcoming program called Eagles, People and Lead in the Environment is scheduled for Sept. 30 at the Owens Station Crossing location from 1 pm to 2:30 p.m.