The event was held from 9-11 a.m. at the Dunkirk Yacht Club in Memorial Park along Route 5. Children, accompanied by a parent or adult guardian and wearing life preservers, fished from the club’s docks in Dunkirk Harbor. The unique location provided the kids with an excellent opportunity to catch a variety of fish species, and the action did not disappoint.

Although heavy rain was forecast, it passed through the area early in the morning. Skies cleared just in time for a beautiful morning for fun on the water. By the end of the event, smiling youngsters were proudly displaying their catches, some sharing stories of the fish that got away. Following the fishing activities, participants gathered at the Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club, located at 1 Mullet Drive in Dunkirk Harbor, for food, prizes and the fun of recognition.

According to event Chairman Jack Forbes, 46 children registered for this year’s program. “Heavy rain was forecast and it rolled through early in the morning, but the clouds cleared to deliver a blue-sky event and lots of fish catching,” Forbes said. “The kids had a great time. Just like last year, this is a really special day for the NCCC club. It’s really great to see the excitement with the young anglers, and it’s great to see friends of mine who all share the love of fishing come together for this.”

Forbes also noted that the most productive bait of the day was a simple nightcrawler fished beneath a bobber. All bait for the event was generously donated by Gerri Begier of Bill’s Hooks Bait and Tackle.

Photo courtesy of Jack Forbes Thanks to Con Club Take-A-Kid Fishing Day volunteer, C.J. Giguere, right, young Theodore Schneider landed a beautiful smallmouth bass during the event at Dunkirk Harbor on Saturday.

Beyond the fish that were caught, organizers say the true value of the event lies in introducing young people to the outdoors and helping cultivate the next generation of anglers, conservationists, and environmental stewards. Programs like Take-A-Kid Fishing Day teach patience, responsibility, respect for natural resources, and an appreciation for local waterways — values that are critical to the future of conservation efforts.

The Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club is a nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to promoting outdoor recreation, conservation awareness, and educational opportunities for people of all ages. Events such as Take-A-Kid Fishing Day continue the club’s

mission while honoring the legacy of event founder Gene Pauszek, whose vision helped establish a program that has grown steadily over the years and continues to inspire young outdoor enthusiasts throughout the region.

Gotta love the outdoors.

CALENDAR

June 11: Southtowns Walleye Association, monthly meeting, 7 p.m. start, 6 p.m. tournament registration start (last sign-up day), 5895 Southwestern Blvd., Hamburg.

June 12-13: FISH716 Walleye Classic, Barcelona Harbor, $500 entry, Calcutta’s, Big Fish Friday, main event is June 13, visit FISH716.com to register, or call chairman Cody Allen: 716-352-0443 or 716-581-3054.