ThisWeek CW 09/19/2013
The Groveport Nature Center hopes to open a new world of outdoor fun to children with this fall’s Passport to Fishing program.
Through a partnership with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, children age 6 to 16 will be taught to fish.
“It’s really a special workshop for kids and a special partnership that the Ohio Department of Natural Resources has worked to train us on and provide us with materials for,” Groveport naturalist Tina Dillman said. “This is geared for kids to learn the basics and fundamentals of fishing.
“Children will learn how to use a reel pole, fishing safety, casting, knots and rigging, bait and lures, fish habitat and handling, and local fishing rules and regulations, all by working with our seasoned and trained volunteer fishermen and staff.”
According to Dillman, all materials and gear, including a pole and bait, will be provided.
“I always have to borrow poles for our kids’ fishing programs, but this one will include the poles and bait and such, and then the kids can take them home,” she said. “We hope this goes well. We’ve got room for about 50 kids, and if it does, we’ll try to offer it a few more times a year.”
The Passport to Fishing program will be held at Heritage Park, 551 Wirt Road, from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Sept. 21.
After completing the four-station educational program, the young anglers will have a chance to participate in a fishing derby from noon to 1 p.m.
Advance registration for the free Passport to Fishing can be made by calling Town Hall at 614-836-3333.
Other fall programs include:
* “It’s Fall Y’all,” a free craft workshop for children ages 3-10. Town Hall will host the event. Participants will make crafts while they learn about the autumnal equinox at Kidspace, 630 Wirt Road, at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 25.
* The final outdoor movie in the park, featuring Babe, the Gallant Pig, will be held at Heritage Park, 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 28. This event is also free and is family-friendly.