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"I Got One, I Got One!"

Staff and volunteers closely supervise the kids in baiting hooks, casting, and safely releasing fish.

by Kevin Patton

Learning to fish can be a lot of fun and has immediate as well as lifetime benefits.

Many who learn to fish at a young age enjoy a lifetime of the enjoyment, relaxation, challenge, and tasty table fare that fishing provides.

Hooked on Fishing is a setting where young people can learn about and participate in the sport of fishing.

Located at the Dixon's ponds on Route 116 in East Peoria, this non-for-profit organization is giving youths aged 10-12 educational and practical experience in catching a variety of fish.

It doesn't take long before the young anglers are casting and reeling in fish on their own.

Seniors 55 and older and special needs individuals are also provided access to the grounds. A wide seawall and nearby parking adjoins the ponds for handicap-accessible fishing.

Kids are welcomed to the park by a staff of employees and volunteers who assist them in learning to tie knots, bait hooks, cast, and release fish.

Prior to fishing, the kids are instructed in the basics of fishing, including species identification, the equipment they will use, and safety rules.

Each child is closely supervised while fishing. After completing the class and supervised fishing time, children are allowed to return for fishing during designated open fishing time slots scheduled throughout the summer.

Nothing brings a smile to a kids face quicker than catching his first big fish.

Individual fishing stations are set up around the ponds that are equipped with fishing rods, live bait, pliers, wipes and paper towels. A cooler of water and snacks are nearby, as well as chairs and picnic tables for anyone needing a break from the furious action.

A break in the action just might be necessary, since the ponds are teeming with hungry fish.

The facility opened this week and fishing has been exceptional. Scores of bluegills, bass, and bullheads have been caught, in addition to an occasional channel catfish, rainbow trout, and other species.

All rods, bait, and equipment are provided free of charge. A pavilion is available for group gatherings and a walking path surrounds the ponds.

The setting along the Illinois River also provides opportunities to enjoy the parks natural habitat, including artesian wells and wildlife.

Being near wildlife adds to the experience of catching lots of fish at the Hooked On Fishing ponds.

There are three fishing ponds available, stocked with a variety of freshwater species by Herman Brothers Pond Management, a sponsor of the project.

Other major sponsors include the Dixon family and their Seafood Shoppe, Timber Creek Land Company, and the Prairie Home Alliance.

Parents and guardians are invited to stay and watch the fishing.

Available fishing time slot are Monday through Friday from 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:30- 3:30 p.m.

Those interested in learning more about Hooked On Fishing can call 309-219-3560 or visit the web site at: www.hookedonfishingpark.org