Recently I was involved with the organisation of a fishing trip on Lake Okaro for 31 children with haemophilia. The children, aged 4 - 14 from around the country had declared that they would like to experience trout fishing while they were at the annual national convention held this year in Rotorua.
The day itself was wonderful. While only five fish were caught I am sure all the children had a day to remember. What made the day extra special was the support I received from local businesses and the Rotorua anglers club members.
Two businesses in particular went out of their way to ensure the event was a success. Kilwell lent a large number of rods, reels, landing nets and lures for use and the Outdoorsman Headquarters gave a number of great prizes.
As I knew it was going to be difficult to work with such a large group of kids who had never fished before I was also very grateful for the members of the Rotorua Anglers Club who turned up to help out. They were magnificent and the way they helped the youngsters by patiently teaching them casting techniques and the basic skills was hugely appreciated. The fact that they gave up their time on that most important day in the angling calendar, opening day, did not go unnoticed.
DOUG STEVENS
www.nzfishing.com
