http://susquehannafishing.com/
By: Matt Metzger
It wasn’t long ago that I purchased my first kayak to fish out of and soon a second for my wife. We chose sit-on-top kayaks because we were fearful (although these fears were unfounded) that we might roll over and not be able to get out of a sit-inside. As we looked at models of sit-on-tops we saw the large storage areas behind the seat, just big enough for our then four and five-year-old boys. The ideas began to come of teaching our boys about the river and the many natural resources through kayaking.
When introducing our boys to the Susquehanna River, we kept the trips short – maybe paddling upstream for forty-five minutes at most and then finding an island to explore and swim around. We would take nets and allow them to catch small fish and then release them after they were examined. While walking along shore, bird and mammal footprints would be found and guesses of the maker would be made. This was followed by snacks and the lesson of leaving the area as we found it making sure nothing was left behind and picking up extras we found. When the kids seemed content we made the faster paddle downstream to the ramp and home with new knowledge gained.
As they have gotten older the trips have gotten a little longer and now include a ten-foot kayak they take turns paddling. Since they are seven and eight we now position cars so we can go downstream to make their paddling easier and allow them to feel more independent. Safety talks, paddling techniques, and controlling their kayak by using the power of water have now expanded their summer education.
The kayaks have opened up the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay to our family; the kayaks have helped our boys discover bald eagles, explore islands, and examine aquatic life. They have taken us to Elk Neck State Park in Maryland where we viewed the light house at Turkey Point, and pointed north to show the boys the answer to their question of where does the Susquehanna River go. They have taken us in the bays behind Assateague Island to dig fresh clams to cook that day and to the marshes of Janes Island State Park to explore new wildlife. They have seen the waters of Gifford Pinchot and Hills Creek State Parks in PA. Every time we go out in the Susquehanna Watershed we come back with something new.
Our hometown, Selinsgrove, lies along the Susquehanna River. As teachers we see kids who do not even realize what the river has to offer. Our kayaks have been the vehicle to teach our children about this valuable river system and the beauty that surrounds us. As spring comes, the boys are already asking when they can go on the river and now fish out of the kayak as I do. Whether by kayak or boat, take a kid out and show them what we have in the Susquehanna River Watershed. Time spent together on the water always provides lasting memories.
Matt Metzger teaches 6th grade math along with coaching the Selinsgrove High Girls Soccer Team. He has become an avid kayak fisherman along the Susquehanna River.
