Jacksonville, AL –It was a full day of fun, camaraderie, as well as plenty of fishing at the Jacksonville Youth Fishing Rodeo, which was held in the Public Safety Complex this past Saturday. It was a joint venture of Jacksonville Police Department City of Jacksonville Police Department in conjunction and the Alabama Wildlife & Freshwater Fisheries-Law Enforcement Section and with the support by Jacksonville City Council. Jacksonville City Council, this free fishing event was a huge draw for the young anglers from the local community.
The main highlight of the evening was the generous contribution from Alabama Conservation Enforcement Officers Association. Alabama Conservation Enforcement Officers Association that gave away an all-time Fishing License to one fortunate teenager. Other prizes were also that were awarded, but the goal was to get every child to go home with a fishing rod, making sure they keep enjoying the outdoors and be in touch with the natural world.
The event was a two-fishing groups, each with a maximum of 150 spots and all quickly filled at the beginning at the beginning of. To keep the children and their families entertained there was a complimentary lunch served, which included Hot dogs and chips as well as refreshing beverages.
Director Marcus Wood, from the Jacksonville Police Department, expressed the importance of forming more of a partnership with the community through these activities. He stressed the need to bring families and kids together, and let them fish and mingle with police officers, officials from the Alabama Game and Fish, the fire department, as well as other municipal departments. The main objective was to teach youngsters to fish, and most important having a great time.
Chief Wood expressed his appreciation to all sponsors which include Alabama Game and Fish, Walmart as well as The Jacksonville Merchants Association, as in addition to the city council and city for their constant commitment to the cause.
The Mayor Johnny Smith commended the dedicated volunteers who worked hard in coordinating the event with a special mention to Jacksonville Police Department. Jacksonville Police Department for their dedication and passion which led to the event’s success.
Councilmember Coty Galloway was pleased of the number of people who attended the first session. She also eagerly awaited the second session. She emphasized the enthusiasm and positive energy of the participants.
Councilmember Tony Taylor shared a heartwarming update that revealed 1500 lbs of catfish were brought into the lake a few days prior to the event, along with the bass, tilapia and grass carp that are already in the lake. Mayor Smith and Councilmember Taylor as well as Mayor Smith informed everyone of the fact that this lake remains available to the public all year round. They asked that visitors respect the rules that are posted and emphasized their catch-and-release policy in order to ensure the survival of the fish population.
Councilman Taylor also thanked the Assistant Officer in Charge Jason Oden for championing the event and applauded the co-operative effort that helped make it an overwhelming success. It was a huge success. Jacksonville Youth Fishing Rodeo brought the entire community together, encouraging positive bonds and creating long-lasting memories for young anglers from Jacksonville.
