Legendary anglers, senator weighs in on fishing license increase, alligators in Pa.
Many people who enjoy the outdoors were fortunate to have a parent or family member introduce them to fishing, hunting or camping at a young age.
Those early days in the field, like when we caught our first fish, create memories that we will never forget. The photo of the week I'm sharing involves an interview I'll never forget. George Daniel is pictured making a cast beside his mentor, Joe Humphreys. Humphreys, 93, has lived a life of fly fishing and inspiring others including his protege, Daniel. For perspective, Daniel is the lead instructor for Penn State University's fly fishing program, aptly named The Joe Humphreys Fly Fishing Program.
It was amazing to listen to these two legends of the sport talk about the past and future of fly fishing. Their passion about introducing others to enjoy and conserve the outdoors is unparalleled.
Have you noticed the price of most everything has gone up in the past year? One of the things Pennsylvania anglers require is finally going up in price in 2023. For 17 years, anglers have paid the same rate for a fishing license and trout stamp. To help the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission continue to fulfill its mission, the cost of getting a license and trout stamp will go up roughly the cost of a fishing lure or a gallon of gas for resident anglers. I spoke to Sen. Dan Laughlin, of Erie the Senate Game and Fisheries chair, about the new rates and he has some good points in the article below.
Did you ever think you might encounter an alligator in Pennsylvania? Authorities were on the lookout for two 4-foot gators that disappeared from a home in the southeastern part of the state. Lebanon Daily News Reporter Matthew Toth writes about what might have happened and what you should do if you find them.
The last article I have this week involves Lake Erie at one time being referenced as the Sweetwater Seas. Gene Ware wrote an interesting feature for the Erie Times about what explorers realized when they discovered the Great Lakes and how the water is different than an ocean.
With school about to reopen and the Labor Day holiday just around the corner, I hope you find time to make a trip outdoors this weekend. While some water levels are down, the fishing opportunities are right for a lot of warmwater species.
If you have a question about the outdoors or have a feature suggestion, please let me know. Thank you for your time and have a great weekend enjoying nature.
Brian Whipkey is the outdoors columnist for USA TODAY Network sites in Pennsylvania. Contact him at bwhipkey@gannett.com or 814-444-5928 with questions about the outdoors and related story suggestions. Follow him on social media @whipkeyoutdoors
This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Humphreys, Daniel talk fly fishing; PFBC raises license fees
