By by Olin Farrior – Special to the Standard
For approximately 10 years local fishermen and government agencies have joined forces to conduct a kids fishing day for young people in Escambia County.
Unfortunately in 2006, the fishing outing and learning experience did not take place. However, Allen Couch with the local chapter of Fishers of Men Ministries is taking the lead in reestablishing the tradition. Local fishermen, Alabama Game and Fish personnel and Extension Agents will be on hand on Oct. 13 at the ponds of the Jefferson Davis Community College to assist young people and senior citizens enjoy a fishing outing. The youth portion of the program will begin in the early morning, and will include snacks and prizes. At noon there will be hotdogs, hamburgers and soft drinks for sale. Immediately after lunch, the ponds will be open to senior citizens. The plans are well underway to make this project a reality.
This program requires of volunteers and money to be successful. To assure participants catch fish, the pond is heavily stocked in advance of the fishing day. Once the day begins, there are usually in excess of 100 fishermen fishing in the ponds at any given time. The cost of fish, bait, prizes and snacks for all the participants is substantial, and the logistics of maintaining safety and assisting young anglers requires a lot of people. Project organizers are looking for additional sponsors and volunteers.
If you would like to make a contribution or volunteer to be a part of this program, contact Allen Couch at 867-7706, 867-9852, or 363-0547 or email him at acouch14@bellsouth.net.
Contributions can be sent directly to: Fishers of Men Ministries, Alabama South, Allen Couch, P.O. Box 2222, E. Brewton, Alabama 36427.