happened.  I can see the cane pole and the flopping sunfish that initiated me into the world of angling.  Grandma was laughing while Grandpa attempted to capture my prize from the end of my swinging pole while I danced up and down with glee.  And… it was magical!
    There would be a handful of summer vacations spent on Grandpa's pontoon boat.  The kids and grandkids usually stood at each corner of the boat watching bobbers, while Grandma and Grandpa laid their poles out the opposing gates on each side.  Despite what Grandpa did, his bride out fished him every time, bristling his ego while causing the rest of us to laugh and tease.
    Sunfish, bluegill, crappie, and bullheads were the staples of our trips.  And when the action slowed we laughed when mom's desperate plea "Here fishie, fishie!" resulted in a an immediate tug on her line.  Before long the tough bite caused every member to swallow their pride and soon the phrase "Here fishie, fishie!"

could be heard from every corner of the boat.  It's been a family joke ever since!
    I know there are tournaments ahead and pre-fishing trips planned for your summer.  I know it's hard to put down the bass rods and think perch or trout…, but please; don't forget about the next generation of anglers!  Look around at your neighborhood full of kids, count the nephews and nieces, look at your children's and grandchildren's friends - have they experienced that "magical moment" yet?  Have they begun a chapter in their memory banks entitled "The Joy Of Fishing"?  And if you don't take them, who will?
   I do know this; taking a kid fishing doesn't happen unless you make it an intentional goal.  The warm summer days are here, the kids are out of school - the time is now.  Take a kid fishing - and a trip back down memory lane.  It's magical.