As we age, we tend to forget the awe inspired by experiences we had as kids. Fishing is the type of high intensity sport that upon the first catch hooks most kids for life. Outdoor seminars are becoming the most effective way to get new sportsmen afield, but don’t leave it all up to big programs. Take the time to give whenever the opportunity presents itself.
Fishing can be quite complicated if you don’t have the proper information on how to do so. Most fishermen aren’t too worried how many fish are caught daily, while tournament fishermen are searching for the five biggest fish they can catch. The odds of catching a five-fish limit are greatly decreased by tournament fishermen having to fish unfamiliar waters. Having to figure out where the fish are on the lake or river, coupled with the lack of knowledge on what they are feeding on, will test the skills of the most seasoned angler.
By constantly trying new things, the tournament angler tends to learn quite a few more tricks that will help put fish in the boat. For this reason, what better fishing instructors could be found rather than the pros? The years of compiled fishing knowledge, along with the patience needed to help educate kids, are the tools put to use by the tournament angler. Like any other professional sport, the anglers involved in tournament fishing must dedicate their lives to the sport to be successful.
Jim Root, a professional fisherman heading up youth instructional program, stated the hardest obstacle to overcome was the time spent away from his family. Tournament fishermen must travel all over the country to qualify and compete on the tournament trail, much like other professional sports. Fortunately, Jim has a very supportive wife who is happy to see him pursue his dreams. He made the statement, “Becoming a pro was equally split between hard work and the help offered by others.”
Jim had been fishing tournaments for several yearswhen he came to the realization that he wasn't progressing at a rate he felt was acceptable. He was questioning whether spending so much time away from his family, while not guaranteed a paycheck, was the right thing to do. Most pros have several sponsors, which help fund the constant needs of the fisherman. With the cost of gas, lodging, vehicle repairs, and maintenance, Jim was having a hard time keeping up. As with many, Jim began to think about giving up his dream to better take care of his family. So often, at the brink of despair, there is a light at the end of the tunnel for those that truly dedicate themselves.
To Jim’s good fortune, he was hired onto a new pro team this spring. Citizens Bank in Greene offered to sponsor the educational fishing program being featured. The program is being held June 23 from 2-6 p.m. at Cook’s Park, Route 206, Greene. The program will take place rain or shine. Everything is free for the kids thanks to generous donations from local businesses and large corporations alike. Rods, tackle, and bait will be provided by Citizens Bank, food will be donated by Roma's Pizza, dessert provided by Friendly’s, along with coupons for future treats. Dobyn’s Rods, Quantum Fishing and Bass Attacker Lures are the contributing large corporations. Jim praised the contributing groups and stated, “None of this would be possible without their help.” The pond has several species of fish in it including large mouth bass, pickerel, and the many varieties of pan fish. Parents can register their kids at www.jimrootfishing.com, but the deadline to sign up is June 16, so act fast!
