While many birthday presents for youngsters these days often center around electronics or video games, there are still a few kids who cherish those gifts related to the outdoors. I remember getting a few during my adolescence and they were some of the most memorable, both big and small. I met a youngster recently, Hunter, who will likely have a similar memory after a winter crappie ice fishing trip on the docks at Pomona's Lighthouse Bay Marina.
And use it he did. The youngster caught several nice crappie and took them to the adjacent dock to put in his other family member's bucket.
"I got another one!" he hollered as he walked.
After a half-dozen fish, Hunter's family was quick to follow him back to his honey hole, or actually holes.
"I caught one in this hole, that hole and that one, too," he pointed.
Hunter's enthusiasm was contagious and entertaining.
"Fish ON!" he'd holler as he set the hook.
Adult anglers around him were smiling and laughing each time he caught a fish. Hunter was eager to share his secrets with his family and other anglers. And the youngster was willing to share the wealth, too. As he took off his most recent fish, he turned back around to see another youngster, much older and larger, fishing the hole where he just caught the fish. The older kid began to reel up and was about to give the hole back when Hunter said, "That's okay, you can fish there. I'll just fish this one over here."
Here's hoping, Hunter, that you catch many more fish with that birthday present. Happy Birthday, Hunter!
Great catch! Like you I knew kids who still prefer outdoor activities rather playing video games at home. Real fishing or hunting is far happier and exciting than playing at home sitting and have their control pads.
ReplyDeleteClifford
Nicaragua Bird Hunting