THE history of recreational fishing goes back some 3,500 years when some Chinese fished not so much to feed themselves, but to contemplate on the world around them. It was a Zen thing.
In the book “A Concise History of Fly Fishing” by Glenn Law, you learn that Chiang Tzu-Ya, late in the Zhou dynasty (1,122-221 B.C.), took it even further by fishing without a hook – it was the beginning of catch and release.
To me, it seems as if they were trying to become one with the land and there is no better way of learning about your environment than through fishing. It is a barometer of the health of our oceans, rivers, lakes and streams. And what affects our waters and fishing, affects us.
It is through fishing that we can teach our children, and ourselves, the importance of keeping a healthy environment.
Having said that, it’s nice to see that Battery Park City Parks Conservancy is offering a series of fishing events at a number of locations on the lower Hudson to educate children and adults about the Hudson and its environment.
There will be events that combine fishing, art and music on four Saturdays (May 22, June 26, Sept. 18 and Oct. 16.) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Robert Wagner, Jr. Park alongside Battery Park City. Members of Master Anglers will help you cast a line for catch-and-release fishing. The fish will be placed in tanks so you can get up close and personal. On Oct. 16, The Vital Children’s Theater will perform “The Tempest.”
On Fridays (May 7, June 11, Sept. 10 and Oct. 1 and 29) from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., you can spend you lunch hour catching and releasing fish alongside master anglers at Robert Wagner, Jr. Park. Rods and reels will be provided at all the events for those who are in need.
On May 16, there will be a fly casting clinic from 10 a.m.-noon and 12:30-2:30 p.m. at the North Cove Marina for adults and children 10 years and older. Register by calling (212) 267-9700. All of the above clinics are free.
Lastly, but by far the most rewarding, is the Teen Marine Adventure for sixth, seventh and eighth graders. This is a four-week, 15-session adventure of the Hudson River. Those who sign up (cost is $400) will explore the fresh and saltwater environment of the Hudson, its marine life and how man has caused change with pollution. To register, call (212) 267-9700, ext. 366.
