Stony Brook, NY, October 27, 2011 - It was a day for fishing, fun and family at this year’s Fall Freshwater Fishing and Children’s Festival.
As reported in an article that appeared on
Malverne-West Hempstead's Patch.com site, hundreds of Long Island residents turned out to Hemsptead Lake State Park on Oct. 15, for the annual event, sponsored by the I FISH NY program of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, in conjunction with the Office of Parks, Recreation and Preservation, New York Sea Grant, The Fisherman magazine and Dicks Sporting Goods.
The day-long festival offered a full schedule of activities for young and old to enjoy. To promote the sport of fishing throughout the state of New York, instructors and conservationists were on hand to provide information about New York State Parks, wildlife and outdoor activities.
In advance of the event, McDonald and Sound ponds were stocked with trout. Regardless of your experience level, you had a good chance of getting the fish to bite. Instructors offered lessons in casting a line to the least experienced and taught fly-casting to newbie fishermen. I FISH NY provided bait, rods and fish cleaning for any catch of the day.
“It’s just a nice day out with my son,” said Arthur, of Lakeview, who tutored his son, Andre, on some of the finer points of fly-fishing.
Adding to the fishing festivities, was the chance for youngsters to
participate in a Casting for Pumpkins contest, where the winners won a
pumpkin of their own to take home. There was also face painting and
pumpkin decorating and "The Magic of Amore" was, once again, on hand to
amaze kids and adults.
Tom and Viviana Garramone, of Levittown, brought daughter Felicia to the
festival for the children’s activities. She enjoyed her first pony
ride, courtesy of Lola, one of three ponies provided by Lakewood
Stables.
Photo Credit: Robin Robinson, Malverne-West Hempstead Patch.com
I FISH NY makes its home on the campus of the State University of New York at Stony Brook and aims to introduce, educate and promote the sport of fishing throughout New York State.
The I FISH NY Program is a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) initiative that introduces residents to the sport of fishing in New York State. In New York City and on Long Island, the NYSDEC has partnered in recent years with New York Sea Grant.
