Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m. through April 30 per the 4 p.m. Burning Law. This includes wood and charcoal. Gas is permissible. Campground fires are allowed during the restricted time if a camp host is on duty and signage to that effect is posted in the campground. Failure to observe the 4 p.m. Burning Law can result in a fine. Contact the Park Office for additional information.

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The catch

First, there is the splash of the bobber and bait disturbing the glassy surface of Woodstock Pond. After an eternity of patience, the float dips once, then twice, thrice, and is finally pulled under water as the fish takes the bait and hook.The young angler’s heart pounds a little faster with the anticipation of seeing what’s at the other end of the line  After moments of pulling and splashing, the child proudly holds up the catch and releases it back to its home.

A captured crappie at York River State Park, Virginia

A captured crappie

The moment of wonder

There is something about watching kids catch a fish that never gets old. There is a sense of wonder on a little boy’s or girl’s face as they see this living creature flapping around. After releasing the fish, a kid will tend to pause for a moment watching it swim away. No app or video game holds a child’s attention quite the way a bass, bluegill, or crappie does. But the elation of catching a fish comes with teaching the child to be patient. Yes, it is a challenge; especially when the fish aren’t biting. It is not unusual for a child to whine about being bored and not catching anything.

Patience pays off at York River State Park, Virginia

A little patience pays off

While waiting for a bite

To encourage patience in a young angler, make sure you bring a favorite snack or two. Often, satisfied taste buds will calm a child (or adult). A fishing trip must not be only about “reelin’ them in.” Point out some other things about the natural world around them. Chances are there are some turtles swimming around and birds flying along the shoreline. There could even be a blackberry or blueberry bush nearby. Picking and eating wild fruit can sweeten even an unsuccessful day on the water. Fishing is a pastime full of history and heritage. Every child loves to hear about how “old timers” tried a secret trick or two to catch fish. If possible, try one and see if it works.

A new angler used an old trick at York River State Park, Virginia

A new angler used an old trick

A tip to try

In our most recent Kid’s Fishing Fanatic Tournament at York River State Park, I shared with a young lady something I learned from a man from Charles City County. He said that poor country boys learned to catch ten fish on the same piece of worm. She cut a red wiggler just long enough to cover the hook.  Instead of the fish pulling at excess bait, they bit the barb and she hooked them right on the lips. She caught five red ear sunfish, two bluegill, and a white crappie on two pieces of worm. A couple of boys caught some nice bluegill and red ears as well. Those who didn't catch fish found playmates. Everyone who was patent enough to fish got 20% off of a snack from our gift shop.

If the fish aren't biting, make a friend - at York River State Park, Virginia

If the fish aren't biting, make a friend

Directions to York River State Park:  From I-64, take the Croaker Exit 231B. Go north on Route 607 (Croaker Rd.) for one mile, then right on Route 606 (Riverview Rd.) about one and a half miles to the park entrance. Take a left turn into the park.

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If you have read the article and have a question, please email nancy.heltman@dcr.virginia.gov.

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