Reeling in Anglers
Fishing poles have joined the check-out collection of a second Anne Arundel County Library, Eastport-Annapolis Neck, this year after the Mountain Road branch proved last year that library users want to fish.
Carroll, Frederick and Harford counties have also added tackle to one library each under the Department of Natural Resources and the Aquatic Resources Educational Program. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Sport Fish Restoration Program helped fund the program.
Each library — all near public fishing areas — has eight rods and reels on loan and works with local fishing clubs and enthusiasts to keep up the equipment.
“This program is an exciting new way to equip families with the tools and knowledge they need to enjoy a day of fishing in our cherished waterways,” says Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton.
Fitted with bobbers and hooks, these are pond and pier poles. They also come with basic information from DNR on how and where to catch a fish plus species size limits. You provide your own bait and the necessary license if over 16 years old.
Like other library materials, poles must be returned. Your loan lasts for two weeks. Return poles — but not fish — to the checkout desk.