From Wisconsin waters to your plate: DNR announces fishing for dinner initiative
MILWAUKEE-- People who have never fished have the opportunity to learn basic fishing skills, find fishable waters near their home and prepare their catch for the dinner table, as part of the Fishing for Dinner Initiative. The Department of Natural Resources is cosponsoring a five session community education class with the Urban Ecology Center, UW-Extension, Hunger Task Force, Outpost Natural Foods and Sea Grant Institute.
"We want to introduce new audiences to sport fishing by tying it to the local foods movement," says Theresa Stabo, DNR aquatic resources education director. "Sustainability of our fisheries is an important aspect, so filling the freezer doesn't fit the model, but savoring that occasional treat from familiar waters does. We want to welcome people who do not fit the traditional image of an angler, yet share the value of eating local, healthy food," she added.
The class begins with the first session on Jan. 28 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Urban Ecology Center's Washington Park branch located at 1859 N. 40th St. in Milwaukee. Other evening sessions are scheduled for Feb. 4 at the Urban Ecology Center, and for Feb. 11. at the Hunger Task Force kitchen facility, 9000 S. 68th St., Franklin. Participants at the Feb. 11 session will cook their catch with assistance from staff from Outpost Natural Foods. Fishing outings are scheduled for Feb. 7 from 1:30- to 5 p.m. and April 18 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with the locations to be announced.
People who register for the sessions and have less than two years of fishing experience will not need a fishing license, but must obtain a DNR customer identification number by calling 1-888-936-7463. The five - session class is free, but a $25 deposit is required by Friday, Jan. 23, to reserve a spot. The fee is refundable upon arrival at the first session. All gear and supplies are provided. People can ask about child care or transportation when registering. Contact Alexandra LaBonte of the Urban Ecology Center by calling 414-344-5460, or by email at alabonte@urbanecologycenter.org for registration information.
Registration materials are available by searching the DNR website for "Fishing for Dinner" and clicking on the link for registration materials [PDF].