1 July 2014 – Seven young Optimists – members of the Best End Junior Optimist Club at the Morris Vanterpool Primary School – celebrated Fishermen’s Day, not by enjoying the fish caught by bona fide fishermen, but by going fishing themselves. The youngsters, bubbling with excitement, boarded ‘Niyah’ from the Island Harbour jetty on Saturday 28 June 2014 at around 9:00 am, and headed off to the fishing grounds between Scrub Island and Little Scrub to the east of Anguilla. The trip had been planned weeks in advance under the leadership of Club President, Shaelen Hodge, and finally it was time to go fishing!
Within half an hour of throwing out the lines there were nibbles, then bites, then success – the first fish was landed! After less than three hours and a respectable catch, it was time to head back home. Anxious but accommodating parents had been assured that their little fishers would be back by noon.
In spite of a couple queasy tummies, a good time was had by all, and the Junior Optimists were proud of their morning’s endeavours. Advisor Optimist Avon Carty says, “It was a great morning and such a rewarding and educational experience for the children – I am glad we had the opportunity to do this – especially on Fishermen’s Day.”
The trip would not have been possible without the support of the parents, and the Optimist Club of Anguilla is grateful for their encouragement to their children in Optimism. The Club would also like to thank Glen ‘Box’ Hodge, who willingly offered his boat and expertise free of charge to the Best End Junior Optimist members. Thanks are also being extended to Bert and Lorenzo ‘Gadget’ Harrigan who took the time to show the children how to bait their hooks, throw out and reel in their lines and generally made the fishing trip such a wonderful experience for all.
– Contributed
