By Forum Staff
City Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) recently stopped by the Rockaway Beach Ferry landing to check out the free fishing clinic organized by the State Department of Environmental Conservation and the Rockaway Initiative for Sustainability and Equity (RISE). The clinic saw dozens of budding local anglers, including a number of RISE summer Shore Corps interns, get their first experience with the rod and reel, all under the watchful eye of DEC instructors.
“This was an absolutely wonderful experience for our community,” Ariola said. “Rockaway is surrounded by water, and fishing for many is part of life here. This event let young people learn how to take part in that tradition, but even more importantly it let them learn how to do it responsibly and sustainably. Thank you to the DEC and to RISE for bringing this to the neighborhood. I look forward to the next event in the fall!”
Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Ariola
Councilwoman Ariola said the event let young people learn how to take part in the Rockaway fishing tradition; “but even more importantly it let them learn how to do it responsibly and sustainably,” she added.
Lea Kramberg, Youth Programs coordinator at RISE, added, “Fourteen summer Shore Corps interns attended the fishing clinic and were grateful to have the opportunity to learn about local fish and fishing techniques, and rules and regulations. For almost all of them it was their first time fishing, and several of them even caught a fish!”
The next DEC I FISH NY free fishing clinic is scheduled to take place on Oct. 23 at the Rockaway Beach Ferry Landing from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The DEC provides all rods, reels, bait, and tackle; any children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult to participate.
