RUSSELL-A day to unplug from technology and be one with nature awaits families during a free fishing event on June 11 hosted by the Western Massachusetts Council of Boy Scouts of America.
Robert D’Avignon, assistant scout executive, Boy Scouts of America, Western Massachusetts Council, casts a line on the lake in Russell that will be the backdrop for a free family fishing event slated June 11.
The Horace A. Moses Scout Reservation on Birch Hill Road will be the setting for the first of two membership events that is open to all families across the region from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine. Participants do not have to be a scout to attend the festivities. The second free fishing day is planned Sept. 10.
The current membership campaign is titled “Hooked on Scouting” and provides a perfect backdrop for the Moses Scout Reservation that sits along Russell Pond, according to Robert D’Avignon, assistant scout executive, based at the Council headquarters on Arch Road in Westfield.
“No equipment or fishing license is needed for this event,” said D’Avignon. “Come learn from experts about tackle, casting and more.”
During a visit Wednesday, the docks that had recently been installed were gleaming in the early afternoon sunlight as dragon flies glided effortlessly in the warm breezy air.
Robert D’Avignon, assistant scout executive, Boy Scouts of America, Western Massachusetts Council, casts a line on the lake in Russell that will be the backdrop for a free family fishing event slated June 11.
Reservation ranger Tim Vogel explained that on June 11, several stations will be set up around the lake area, explaining every phase of fishing. Representatives from MassWildlife and the Boy Scouts “Fishing Committee” of volunteer anglers will be on hand to discuss casting and presentation, freshwater fish of Massachusetts, tie knots, fishing rods, and water safety.
“Water safety is a top priority for the Boy Scouts organization,” said Vogel, who is a certified fly fishing guide and state angler education instructor. “This event will also observe the catch and release system.”
Dr. Robert J. Sousa, a certified fish scientist and fly fishing expert, has been named honorary chair of the Council’s local membership campaign. Sousa, best known in scouting circles as the author of the Fly Fishing Merit Badge Book and for his work on other books in the fishing merit badge series, will attend both events to share his great skill and enthusiasm for fishing with young people. Sousa will also sign copies of the Fly Fishing Merit Badge Book for scouts who attend. At The Trading Post, a limited number of autographed copies of Sousa’s latest book, 24 Greatest Flies You Don’t Leave Home Without, will also be available for sale.
Cheryl Izyk, vice president, membership, will also have a station with information on programming that ranges for boys starting in kindergarten and for girls starting in sixth grade. Details on summer camp options will also be available.
Several gifts will be distributed to participants during a free family fishing event at the H.A. Moses Scout Reservation in Russell on June 11.
Participants are reminded to wear closed-toe shoes and dress appropriately for the rustic setting. Lunch will be available and will include hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and beverages for a nominal fee.
All participants will take home a package of “fake worms” for their own fishing expeditions, as well as a magazine from Massachusetts Fish & Wildlife and a handy guide to “Freshwater Fishes of Massachusetts.”
“Show up for a great time outdoors while learning how to fish,” said D’Avignon. “Participants will end the day practicing their new skills at our lake front.”
Vogel concurred.
“Fishing is an inexpensive hobby to get kids outside and to learn new skills,” said Vogel, adding “fishing is a perfect family sport.”
For more information on the day’s events which is open to current, new, and prospective Scouts and their families, visit www.wmascouting.org or call (413) 594-9196.
