PROVIDENCE - The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) will join Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian and the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association (RISAA) to kick off a new fishing camp next week at Rocky Point State Park. Fifty Rhode Island children will participate in the free, three-day camp that will teach young anglers how to safely fish from boat and shore.
WHO: Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian DEM Director Janet Coit RISAA President Steve Medeiros
WHAT: Official Opening of New RISAA Fishing Camp at Rocky Point
WHEN: Tuesday, June 28 | 8:30 a.m.
WHERE: Rocky Point State Park (at beach) 130 Rocky Point Avenue Warwick, RI 02889
*** Photo Op: Symbolic cast with officials and campers
"Not only will young people learn to fish, but this program will expose many young people to the water for the first time," said Mayor Scott Avedisian. "This program combines recreation, fishing, boating, respect for nature, and awareness of the many special miles of coastline that we have in Warwick and in Rhode Island. I am happy to join Director Coit and the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association in this great event."
"As the Ocean State, fishing is an important part of our social and cultural fabric," said DEM Director Janet Coit. "It's fun and a wonderful way to connect with nature. Little is more thrilling than casting a line and reeling in that first fish - especially on our beautiful Narragansett Bay. We're thrilled to partner with RISAA on this effort and host the camp at our newest coastal state park. For many adult Rhode Islanders, Rocky Point is a cherished place that holds fond childhood memories. Kudos to RISAA for bringing this camp to Rocky Point and inspiring both a love of fishing and for this park in our children. It is through efforts like this that we forge the next generation of environmental stewards."
Instructors from RISAA, DEM, and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will teach campers, ages 7 - 14, how to identify a fish and hook and cast a line as well as when and how to use different baits and lures. Campers will also learn the basics in marine biology, boat safety, and fishing laws. Funding for the camp is made possible by the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Foundation. Partners in this effort include DEM, the City of Warwick, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, and Brewers Marina. Camp will be held from 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Tuesday, June 28 - Thursday, June 30.
"A lot goes on when you fish," said Steve Medeiros, president of RISAA. "It appeals to our sense of adventure and teaches us patience. It is one of those activities where science and art converge, and it teaches us to be good stewards of the environment. We build a lifetime of memories and friendships with those we fish with. Our aim with this pilot fishing camp is to give children a proper introduction to fishing."
For more information on RISAA programs, visit www.risaa.org. For more information on DEM, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow DEM on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or via Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) for timely updates.