The Fishing Line: Let’s Get Hooked

It’s not too late to sign up for the next Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs training but the deadline is this Friday, March 28. This important program needs our support and commitment.
“Hooked On Fishing – Not On Drugs” is a nationally recognized program created by the Future Fisherman Foundation. The goal is to encourage school-aged children to avoid tobacco, drug and alcohol usage by providing alternative activities that involve learning to fish, appreciating aquatic and environmental resources, and developing positive life skills.
For Robert Johnston of Gloucester Township, HOFNOD has taken on a life of its own. Johnston is a volunteer firefighter and avid fisher and while he was out of work, he decided to attend the training program. He was convinced that the program could make a difference.
Johnston told me, “Our kids are our future. Fishing is something every kid can do.” Johnston has written a 28 week curriculum course, now approved by the State and has turned the HOFNOD program into a full-fledged educational-recreational adventure. With the support of Mayor Mayer and other township groups, the program is running at Lake Mathilde. This hidden gem boasts the lake, park and cabins; just right for overnight camping.
Johnston invited school age kids to an open house-information event on March 8 and held the first meeting on Thursday, March 13. Twenty-five kids ages 5-14 attended. Johnston said he had to cut off the registrations because so many wanted to sign up. And who wouldn’t? The state is funding the program and kids get free rods and tackle boxes and curriculum materials. Add to that Johnston’s kid friendly topics like “What are you Chewsing?” “What Have You Seine?” and “There’s a Fly on my Line” and kids are hooked.
The schedule for the Gloucester Township chapter also includes visits from the Coast Guard, field trips, and kayaking and boating. In fact they’ll be headed to the Wetlands Institute in April 26 and will get in some local fishing time, too.
HOFNOD is an excellent way for young people to participate in constructive recreation and to develop a positive sense of self-worth. It’s the type of program that not only will help reduce drug and alcohol use in youth, but will also bring families closer by giving them an inexpensive outdoor recreation activity they can do together. For more information call 908-637-4125 ext. 122 or e-mail Liz.Jackson@dep.state.nj.us or visit Jackson’s Web site at www.hofnod/gt Johnston is hoping that other towns and group will follow his lead.
Hooked on Fishing-Not on Drugs Training, April 3 & 4, North Hudson Park Environmental Academy, James J. Braddock Park, North Bergen. To register, e-mail Liz.Jackson@dep.state.nj.us. Non-refundable registration fee of $30. Confirmation packet will be e-mailed to you.
Another Fly Tying Day was held for South Jersey Coastal Fly Anglers and Brad Buzzi was back again this year by popular demand. The group met at the Bay Center in Ocean City. A fun day was had by all. It was great to be inside tying while the cold wind came blasting across the bay. Not a fit for any kind of fishing; perfect for sharing stories and skills.
FINSNGRINS (Captain Jim McClintock, Wildwood) has added a 16 foot fully rigged for back bay fishing. The little fin will start sailing beginning in April.
Stray Cat Fishing is aiming to get out on weekends. Boat leaves the dock at 6 a.m. Limit of 10 passengers. www.straycatsportfishing.com
The Fishing Line runs year round so keep sending your reports and pictures to cmiller@cmcherald.com. Column and pictures are posted online at www.capemaycountyherald.com and on Facebook. Keep them coming.