Fishing festival, family nights set for Patterson Park
by Mary Helen Sprecher
newsroom@baltimoreguide.com
Between the first robin and the last day of school, the most telling harbinger of warm weather is the Patterson Park Fishing Festival. And make no mistake, this year’s event, which will be held on June 2, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., will be able to keep kids occupied all morning.
“We have a lot going on,” said Mark Burke, recreation director in Patterson Park.
The lake has a thriving population of trout, bluegill and large-mouth bass, and the festival will be open for family fishing. (Only children may reel in fish, however, and only children are elibible for prizes, such as those for first fish caught, largest fish caught and most fish caught). All fishing will be on a catch-and-release basis.
There are reports that East Baltimore’s own Russell Colwell, a winner of the Bassmaster Tournament earlier in the year, will be on hand with his rig and trophy, and that the Patterson Park Youth Fishing Club will be signing up members as well.
For those who get bored with the holy trinity of hook, line and sinker, there are other activities, according to Burke.
“We have face painting, a fishing tub (a game of luck for children), make your own fish T-shirt, the Backyard Bass ring toss game and Betsy the Big Mouth Bass.”
Not convinced yet? Burke is also dangling a ‘fishin’ hole in one’ putt-putt golf game as well as animal balloon sculptures.
Although those attending fishing events at the Boat Lake are encouraged to bring their own fishing rods and tackle, both Burke and Wall note that there are loaner poles available, and that bait will be supplied.
The rain date is June 9 — “but we don’t want that,” said Burke. “We want it to be the second.”
Note: The Patterson Park Fishing Festival takes place on Saturday, June 2, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the boat lake. in the event of rain, a decision regarding postponement will be made by 8 a.m. on June 2 and a recorded message at 410-396-7078 will have all the information.Those who want to help clean up the Boat Lake prior to the event can help at the montly clean-up event, to be held beginning at 8 a.m. Info on volunteering: lesley@pattersonpark.com.
Family Fun Fishing Nights are held each Thursday, 6 p.m.-dark, through May and June for catch and release fun. $1 per person, bait provided.
Info: Mark.burke@baltimorecity.gov or call 410-396-9392.
