It was one of the few dry, sunlit comfortable evenings in July, where nearly two dozen women gathered on the shores of Colburn Pond at Barrett Park in Leominster.
They were attending an in-person Learn to Fish Clinic for Outdoorswomen held by the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife.
Billed as a part of a series of free fishing clinics for beginning anglers, the women’s experience included watching an online fishing tutorial covering basic equipment, safety, regulations, and safety. The second part of the experience was a scheduled two-hour fishing clinic at the city park. The women learned to set up and cast fishing rods, bait hooks, and, when they caught a fish, how to take it safely off the hook. Several MassWildlife staff, both women and men, were on hand providing instruction, information, and encouragement to participants.
Many women brought their own fishing equipment, but for those who didn’t have their own gear, MassWildlife’s mobile fishing clinic van was stuffed with rods, reels, hooks, and bobbers. The new anglers were also supplied with an outdoor recreation map, a freshwater fish identification brochure and a fishing regulation guide to aid them in planning future fishing experiences. Women from the greater Leominster and Fitchburg area were in attendance, while others traveled from Ipswich, Mendon and Worcester. Among the 21 attendees were mother-daughter duos, women fishing buddies, and women looking for an opportunity to try a new outdoor skill on their own.
The Learn to Fish program is part of MassWildlife’s efforts to introduce more people to the joys of fishing and spending time outdoors with friends or family.
null“Barrett Park is a great location to hold these kinds of events,” said MassWildlife Information and Education Chief Marion Larson. “With the open shorelines, fishing pier, and abundant populations of sunfish, bluegills, and other panfish, it makes for a successful fishing experience. We appreciate the Leominster Recreation Department’s partnership in our common goal of providing opportunities for people to enjoy the great outdoors.”
Larson noted that many fish were caught, bluegills, sunfish, bass, and even a surprising rainbow trout, a “holdover” fish from a springtime fish stocking by MassWildlife for the Recreation Department’s Spring Fishing Event. Cheers rang out across the water signaling a fish catch, and those moments were celebrated with high fives, congratulatory words, and the obligatory fishing photos.
Attendees spoke of increased confidence in their casting skills and handling the squirming bait or fish. They appreciated the personal instruction and time provided by the women and men from MassWildlife.
“It was like a private fishing lesson,” said one woman. “Everyone was so helpful and encouraging, we all had a blast.”
Several free family fishing clinics in different parts of the state are scheduled in August and September. Pre-registration is required, and spaces fill up fast. All clinics are free and do not require a fishing license. Find out more at MassWildlife’s angler education calendar, https://www.mass.gov/service-details/angler-education-calendar.
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