Everyone fishing in one of Genoa's ponds after the learning stations. (Photo by Sarah Bauer, 5/17/08)

A proud child showing off his catch of the day. (Photo by Sarah Bauer, 5/17/08)

A proud child showing off his catches of the day. (Photo by Sarah Bauer, 5/17/08)

On May 17, 2008 Genoa National Fish Hatchery (NFH) held their annual Fishing Clinic.  Approximately one hundred and thirty children showed up for the event with their parents.  The event was run by Genoa NFH with the help of members from the La Crosse National Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office (NFWCO), the La Crosse Fish Health Center, Wisconsin DNR (WI DNR) and members of the Friends of the Upper Mississippi River Fishery Services (FUMFS). 

The Fishing Clinic had four stations where the children learned about animal fur identification, fish identification and habitats, fish anatomy and jig making. The children were very enthusiastic and inquisitive at each station.  After the stations, the children fished in one of the hatchery’s ponds that was stocked with rainbow trout.  The children practiced safe casting techniques to catch the trout with a minimal amount of tangled lines.  Each child was allowed to take up to five trout home after they were cleaned for them at the event by hatchery staff.  

The event concluded with prizes awarded for the heaviest, longest, lightest and shortest fish.  Other prizes were awarded randomly as door prizes and each child received a goodie bag.  Overall the event appeared to be a success with great weather, many trout caught and smiling faces.