‘Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs’ aims to get kids hooked on fun

June 17, 2024

by Larry Spicer, Reporter

Youngsters, some with family members present took part in the kickoff of this year’s HOFNOD (Hooked on Fishing Not on Drugs) event. PHOTO BY LARRY SPICER

Summertime is officially here and for many local kids and families that means, it’s time to go fishing.

With that, the Pine Mountain Resort Park has partnered with UNITE and Barbourville Tourism to host ‘Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs’ every Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. during the month of June.

The event is taking place at the Brickyard Pond in Barbourville, at the City Park (former Water Park location).

“We want kids to come out and learn to hone their craft as fishermen,” stated Keith Bowling, who serves as Park Naturist for Pine Mountain Resort Park.

Bowling would also add, “We have quite a few here that have been fishers for a while, but we also have some new ones. We want them to learn the fun of fishing and hopefully find a new constructive hobby.”

Brendia Moses was also present for UNITE and had said of the event, “This gives kids the opportunity to enjoy an anti-drug, community event.”