It’s been another successful season for the Detroit Lakes chapter of Let’s Go Fishing, the volunteer-run organization that offers area seniors and disabled residents, veterans and youth an opportunity to experience what it’s like to get out on the lake and fish, or see the sights - many of them for the first time.
A total of 131 trips were taken from May through September, serving more than 1,265 clients of all ages, including more than 900 adults and 300 youth.
“One hundred thirty-one is a new record for the number of trips in a season,” said Dave Hochhalter, a co-founder of the chapter who still serves on its governing board.
And there could have been even more, he added; 37 trips were cancelled, “primarily because of weather.”
The chapter also achieved some memorable milestones this summer, having served more than 5,600 clients and completed over 600 trips since its inception in 2008.
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But of course, none of the group’s success would be possible without its volunteers and sponsors, said Chapter President Tim Miller.
“We had 45 different volunteers on LGF trips in 2015, and could use more for next year, especially captains,” Hochhalter said.
Those who completed nine or more trips included Jim Coleman, Bob Collins, Betty and Dave Hochhalter, Duane Husby, Linda Long, Darlys Miller, Ed Miller, Tim Miller, Ken Moser, Bob Possehl, Paul Schornack and Marv Sorenson. Over 730 volunteer hours were contributed for fishing trips, with another 1,500 hours contributed for fundraising, board meetings, marketing and promotions.
As for the group’s many financial and in-kind sponsors, Hochhalter said a complete list is available online at www.lgfws.com , by clicking on the page for the Detroit Lakes chapter.
Miller said that it was particularly helpful to have the dock space provided by the Holiday Inn of Detroit Lakes and the lift provided by At Ease Dock & Lift of Frazee, both for the entire season.
Quality Bait & Tackle of Detroit Lake also supplied all the bait for the group’s 87 fishing excursions, Miller said (the other 44 trips were for sightseeing).
The group wrapped up the 2015 season with a volunteer appreciation dinner on Tuesday. Goals for next year include completing 125-135 trips, recruiting 20 new volunteers and adding three new board members.
If interested in becoming involved with Let’s Go Fishing, please call Miller at 218-846-1444 or Hochhalter at 218-847-5670.
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Follow Detroit Lakes Newspapers reporter Vicki Gerdes on Twitter at @VickiLGerdes .
