Seney National Wildlife Refuge 18^th annual
Children’s Fishing Day
Article and Photos by: Julie Freeman (c)

Saturday, June 9, the Seney National Wildlife Refuge held its 18th annual Children’s Fishing Day. Doors opened for registration a half an hour early to accommodate eager kids and families in line anxious to fish. A total of 81 participants took advantage of the sunny weather for an enjoyable day of fishing on the Refuge. 14-year-old Cody Ott, of Germfask, caught the largest northern pike measuring at 26 ¼ inches, 11-year-old Henry Sawaski, of Newberry, caught the largest yellow perch measuring at 9 inches. Their youngest participant was 2-years-old and our oldest one was 17-years-old. By the end of the day, 21 pike and 17 perch were brought to the weighing station, as well as several bullheads and sunfish.

Throughout the day participants took a break from fishing to play games in the Visitor Center, while volunteers measured and recorded fish. After a long day of fishing, participants indulged in a free fish dinner served by volunteers and members of the Seney Natural History Association. 70 pounds of whitefish was served, along with corn, beans and brownies. Hundreds of prizes, including fishing poles, tackle boxes and lures were awarded to participants. No one walked away empty-handed. Sponsors for this event included the Seney Natural History Association and these fine businesses, from the Germfask area: Big Cedar Campground, Northland Outfitters and The Trading Post, from Seney: North Coast Realty and Seney Party Store, from Curtis: JR’s Sports Shop, The Trading Post and Fish and Hunt Shop; Manistique: Hoholik’s Do It Best Hardware, Top O’ Lake Sport and Gift and Jack’s Super Value; Munising: Glen’s Market, Holiday 155, Madigan’s True Value Hardware, Bob’s IGA Store; Newberry: Holiday Gas Station, Duke’s Sports Shop, Foster’s True Value Hardware, Snyder Drug Store; from the Cooks area: Garden Sports Shop; Marquette: Wal-Mart, Super One; Ishpeming: Wilderness Sports Shop. A big appreciation goes out to the VFW and United Methodist Church of Germfask for lending many chairs and tables.

Chris Homeister, Public Use Intern and Children's Fishing Day Event Coordinator said, “This event began 18 years ago in hopes of encouraging children to get outside and go fishing. If children can experience nature hands on; maybe catch a fish, or see a few neat animals, then they maybe inspired to participate in more outdoor activities in the future.” The event really hasn’t changed much over its history, they still have the same format and usually get anywhere from 50-100 participants.

Chris added, “The event was a success overall, even though not every participant
caught a fish, they all had smiles on their faces!" he continued, "With fish to catch, games to play, prizes to win and a free fish dinner at the end of the day, it’s no wonder that so many people decided to venture onto the Refuge. I heard no complainants at the end of the day, the Refuge staff, volunteers, and participants are all looking forward to taking part in this wonderful event next year.”  

 









          COME ON KIDS - WE'RE GOING TO SENEY WILDLIFE REFUGE FOR THE CHILDREN'S FISHING DAY!