Fun all around at the 2018 C.A.S.T. for Kids Event held at the Burley Boat Docks in Rupert, Idaho

Written by: Emily Quinn

Participants of the 2018 C.A.S.T. for Kids Event at the Burley Boat Docks in Rupert, ID.Each year, C.A.S.T. for Kids events are held at Reclamation facilities throughout the West to provide children with disadvantages and/or disabilities with opportunities to learn the joy of fishing.

This year’s event on Saturday, July 21 at the Burley Boat Docks in Rupert, Idaho exemplified this goal. In total, 22 children participated in the day’s activities -- one of whom had never caught a fish until this event. There were 13 people who volunteered their time and boats, and shared their knowledge and passion for fishing with the children. Additionally, eight Reclamation employees volunteered their time at this event.

Before the children ventured out onto the water, they were equipped with their very own t-shirt, tackle box, and rod and reel to not only use at this particular event, but to keep and enjoy during future fishing excursions.

After spending a relaxing morning on the water, children and volunteers returned to the shore to enjoy a delicious lunch donated by local sponsors. Lunch is an equally special time, as children share stories about their fishing experiences with those sitting around them at the table. After lunch, a special ceremony was held to award the children for their newfound fishing skills.

Participants and volunteers were moved by positive experiences at this year’s event. One child told the story about how his grandfather was the only person in his entire family to ever own a fishing pole, and now that he has a pole of his own, he is extremely proud and plans to carry forth his grandfather’s passion for fishing.

These events positively impact the lives of many children, and they wouldn’t happen without the hard work and dedication of volunteers. Thank you to all who were able to assist with coordination and setting up, those who donated resources, and to those who offered their time and boats to share some fun and fishing with children at this event.

A nice catch at the 2018 C.A.S.T. for Kids Event held at the Burley Boat Docks.

Getting ready to hit the water with his very own fishing gear!

Published on July 24, 2018