Detroit Fishing Day a model for how to get young people hooked on Scouting
Professional bass fisherman Tom Redington calls it fishing’s biggest “urban legend.”
It goes like this: You can’t catch fish in an urban environment. Nothing will bite unless you’re miles and miles from the nearest highway.
The truth is much more convenient. Redington has caught fish, including the proverbial “big one,” in the middle of Chicago, Milwaukee, Dallas and New York City.
And later this month, he’ll add another metro area to his list: Detroit.
On June 30, Redington and other Fishing League Worldwide tour pros will take part in Detroit Fishing Day, a free event sure to get boys and girls hooked on fishing — and Scouting.
The event is a collaboration of the Michigan Crossroads Council, Boys’ Life magazine and the FLW Foundation Unified Fishing Derby.
But wait, there’s more
What makes Detroit Fishing Day even more exciting? Shakespeare, a leader in quality, affordable fishing tackle, is giving free rods and reels to the first 500 new or current Scouts who recruit a friend to join Scouting and attend the event. And Berkley is providing baits that will be irresistible to the fish.
With fishing poles in hand and fishing superstars at the ready to give pointers, this event will get young people interested in fishing and recruit families to Scouting.
Some Detroit families who might rarely, if ever, have the chance to fish will be equipped to cast a line in their own urban backyard. They’ll even get a chance to walk across the FLW weigh-in stage and have their catches measured — just like the pros.
Why this event is such a great idea
Detroit Fishing Day is one way the BSA and Boys’ Life magazine bring outdoor adventure to youth in all parts of the country.
The event marks one of Scouting’s many opportunities for boys and girls and their families to learn about the outdoors from a hands-on, unique perspective. Partnering with FLW brings expertise and an added level of excitement to the event.
After the BSA Detroit Fishing Day, FLW will continue the fun with a free Family Fishing Expo from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The Expo is a chance for fishing fans to meet their favorite anglers, enjoy interactive games, activities and giveaways provided by FLW sponsors, and learn more about fishing and other outdoor activities.
Detroit-area families: Join the free fun!
What: Detroit Fishing Day, brought to you by Michigan Crossroads Council, Boys’ Life magazine and the FLW Foundation Unified Fishing Derby.
Who: All families.
When: The morning of Saturday, June 30, with additional family fun continuing that afternoon and into Sunday, July 1.
- Detroit Fishing Day: Saturday, June 30, from 9 to 11 a.m. Check-in starts at 8.
- Family Fishing Expo: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday (June 30) and Sunday (July 1).
Where: Lake St. Clair Metropark, 31300 Metro Parkway, Harrison Township, Mich.
How much: Free.
Register: At the Michigan Crossroads Council website.
Photos by Anna Grace Goldman
Detroit Fishing Day a model for how to get young people hooked on Scouting