Tourney helps kids get hooked on fishing, not drugs
By PATTY LENDERMAN Lakecaster Managing Editor

For 20 years, the East Texas Get Hooked on Fishing Not Drugs program has been a positive force with the youth in the lakes area to teach kids healthy fun positive outdoor activities. This year nearly 400 kids with their families participated at Sam Rayburn Marina (formerly known as Twin Dikes Marina) on April 28.

Get Hooked on Fishing Not Drugs is a long-term mentor-based program supported by the Future Fisherman Foundation that creates ethical anglers while developing positive life skills, such as, decision-making, goal-setting, communicating meaningfully with others, and choosing to remain drug-free.

Fishing from the banks and docks was the most popular activity, as well as boat rides provided by volunteers, pro bass anglers and Texas Game Wardens. Representatives from the TP&W Fish Hatchery were also on site with a fish tank to let the kids learn about a variety of fish they can catch in our lakes. As the kids asked to see a certain fish up close, the fish was removed from the tank so that they were able to see and feel the different species. Another stop in this fun packed day was for beginners to learn how to cast. This was set up in the playground area, and fish targets were laid out to 'catch' as they reeled in their line. In addition to teaching all the basics of safe and ethical angling, this program combines long-term mentoring and positive life skills with conservation education in one powerful and adaptable package. Here's how it works:

Angling Skills

Children learn all the skills necessary to fish safely on their own in a variety of settings, and the ability to teach others. Mentors provide social support to motivate children to adopt fishing as a wholesome pastime, and encourage them to enjoy it regularly with their friends and family.

Conservation Ethics

Children take an active role in conservation in their own communities and develop ethical attitudes about the outdoors.

Social Skills Children are empowered by a new, fun activity and positive life skills, such as creative decision-making, problem solving, goal setting, patience, and camaraderie. Shared experiences with friends and family help children better communicate and interact with each other. They gain confidence and find a new sense of respect and responsibility for themselves, their friends and family, and their community.

In the weeks preceding each annual event, there is a poster and essay contest. The winners receive awards for the best ones in each category. This creates a forum for the kids to express their feelings about getting hooked on fishing, not drugs. If you would like more information on the program or would like to help out in next year's event, contact Lana Comeaux at 409-698-2677.