Kids enjoy fishing day at Wizard Falls

 

Last updated 6/13/2006 at Noon

Conrad Weiler

Leah Pfeiffer reels in big one (6 pounds, 7 ounces) with a little help from dad.

Happy faces were seen all around Wizard Falls for last Saturday’s Kid’s Fishing Day.

Since 1989, this annual event has allowed children 10 years old and under the chance to catch a big one at the fish hatchery’s ponds. Children, parents, grandparents, volunteers and friends join together for a wonderful time.

Mike and Sue Johnson, from Cocoa Beach, Florida, were there with their son, Dylan.

“We’ve come for the last three years to this outstanding event,” said Mike. “Our son caught a small one but he was thrilled with his 12-inch catch.”

The family was gathered around Nate Dachtler’s fish anatomy table where children could “dissect” a wooden model fish while learning about the parts. Datchler was one of many local Forest Service people helping during the day’s event.

Nearby was Cindy Glick’s large inflated Chinook salmon. Inside, children gathered and listened to various stories and yarns spun by this storyteller.

Meanwhile, along the banks of the big pond, children and parents cast out their lines hoping for the big one. Young Leah Pfeiffer, with parental assistance, reeled in a six-pounder.

Younger children use the smaller ponds at the hatchery for their prize catches.

At the entry table, Teresa and Whitney Hamburger were dispensing information and a special bag of treats for each young child.

Meanwhile, Steve Hamburger, manager at Wizard Falls, was off checking that everybody was finding the right pond spot and equipment for fishing. While many families brought their own equipment, the hatchery crew supplies gear for those who need it.

One table was set up by the Forest Service and Oregon Fish and Wildlife for “Gyotaku” (fish printing). Children could select their color choices for painting their fish models and then transfer their creation onto paper.

Nearby was a model of creatures found in local streams. Children could learn the importance of these various organisms in the food chain supporting fish populations.

Several of the local fly-fishing groups had representatives available to teach techniques and answer questions, including the Central Oregon, Santiam, and Tumalo fly-fishing groups.

“This was an outstanding day,” said local angler Tom Fish. “I brought my daughter Kristin and grandson Tommy and we had a wonderful time.”

Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery is open for visitors all year from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. It is located five miles north of downtown Camp Sherman. Call 595-6611 for information.

 

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