To Fish or Not To Fish

By: Patrick Panasko  

“Raise them on the water with a fishing pole, not in the house playing video games” 

-Bill Dance. 

When you see the North Shore of Pittsburgh you see sports stadiums where big catches are made by professional athletes. The sport of fishing can offer a more valuable catch to kids and adults alike. Over the past 16 years Venture Outdoors has hosted TriAnglers Lunch Time fishing. 

Many inner city youth and adults do not get the chance to go fishing and enjoy the pleasures of it. Fishing teaches many life skills that are important for personal development.  

When a participant shows up to fish for the first time, they might not know what to expect or how long it might take to catch a fish. After countless casts and reeling, they will eventually catch a fish. “Many adults and youth catch their first fish at TriAnglers, and they almost always return to fish again”  says Frank McCormik, a regular particpant. Many participants in TriAnglers come back again because they see how much fun it is.  

Last year during TriAnglers over 350 participants caught a total of 205 total fish. The biggest fish caught last year was a 30-inch Flathead Catfish by Frank McCormick of McKees Rocks.  

TriAnglers is located at the Three Rivers Heritage Trail just outside of PNC Park near Kayak Pittsburgh. Fishing is available every Wednesday May through September from 11:30 AM until 1:30 PM. Participants are welcome to bring their own gear although Venture Outdoors will provide spin and closed-face reels, bobbers or weights, minnows, and night crawlers. The only requirement is a valid PA fishing license for participants over the age of 16. A fishing license can be obtained through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.