Montana FWP’s 48 “Kids to Fish” Rod & Tackle Loaner Sites Now Being Re-stocked
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks 06.17.13
Just in time for summer, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff are restocking the 48 sites in FWP Region 6 where children and their families can check out free fishing rods and tackle.
The “Kids to Fish” loaner sites can be found in most communities across the Hi-Line. Nationally known rod and reel manufacturers and Hi-Line retailers D & G Sports & Western in Glasgow and Stromberg’s Sinclair and the Big R store in Havre give FWP substantial discounts that help keep the popular program sustainable.
The sturdy loaner rods come rigged with bobbers, split-shot and hooks. Youngsters are required to sign out the equipment at the site and return it in good working order within a reasonable amount of time.
FWP Region 6 aquatic education intern Hanna Kimball, a senior at the University of Montana-Western in Dillon, has been busy maintaining the gear and helping resupply the sites this month.
More than 400 fishing rods are available to be checked out from the outlets by individuals, families, organizations, church groups and schools.
“Just because someone doesn’t own a fishing rod doesn’t mean they can’t go fishing,” Kimball said. “We want as many kids as possible to be able to go out and fish, no matter where they live or what their economic status is. The many business owners and other folks who participate in the program deserve special thanks. They’re helping a lot of kids have fun this summer.”
