By Rodney Hsu

On Saturday April 26th, Fraser Valley Salmon Society hosted its third annual "All about Fishing" day. The idea began three years ago when a group of anglers decided there was a need to promote fishing among our younger generation. What started as a small scale function has turned into a large community event.

The concept is fabulous! Kids who attended the show received a handout with a list of tasks and questions that they could complete. They were then asked to go around to each station for clues and answers. At the Fraser Valley Salmon Society booth, parents and kids scratched their heads trying to match each salmon photo with the correct name. To puzzle the curious ones even more, a jar of ghost shrimps was left beside the quiz for more guessing.

The most popular section of the event was the flytying table. Each kid had the chance to tie his or her own fly with the assistance of an experienced fly tier. The look on each student's eyes was definitely priceless. Their eyes were always fixated to the hook as the instructor slowly wrapped a piece of thread around it. At the end, every kid walked away with a decorated fly that will be treasured for many years to come.

At one corner of the hall, I met up with David Mair, who eagerly showed me his large collection of antique fishing equipment. It was certainly impressive. He slowly pulled out fishing reels that dated back to the late 1800s and explained to me their purpose and usage. Although they are no match to today's reels, they are definitely historical items that need to be treasured and preserved.

Other highlights included the knot tying demonstration, lure displays and fish fighting simulation. Many recognized groups were also present at the show. They included Rick Hanson's sturgeon tagging program, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, coast guard, Chilliwack Vedder River Cleanup Coalition and Chilliwack River Action Committee.