Fellow Virginians, as we sit comfortably here in central VA, enjoying the sweet liberty of tossing our fishing lines into the Commonwealth’s clear waters, could we find ourselves subjected to the same unfortunate fishing woes that our friends in Pennsylvania are facing?
Evidently, an unsettling veil of discontent is currently marring the joy of angling enthusiasts in Pennsylvania. The Army Corp in their locale is supposedly flexing its bureaucratic muscles and unjustly refusing all special activity permits requested for Saturday or Sunday, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, unless they are scheduled after 4PM. Those who relish the thrill of a bass tournament weigh-in amidst broad daylight and the prime time of life in the outdoors now face a grim reality.
But what if this unwelcome trend washes its way down the James River to our beloved central VA’s calm shores? Bass fishing, which is much more than just a recreational activity, is indeed the lifeblood of our economy, with its rippling effects being felt in local businesses from bait and tackle shops to eateries, lodging facilities, and even gas stations. Should we be alarmed?
Undoubtedly, our local bass tournaments are scheduled carefully, with immaculate precision to not disrupt the natural traffic flow. Our referees are conscious of the surrounding environment and strive to minimize any potential parking problems or safety concerns. Yet, the situation in Pennsylvania prompts us to confront these unnerving questions: If we haven’t done anything wrong, and you have no specific example of how we can improve, why should we be punished?
We are left to ponder over what seems like a hazy justification given by Pennsylvania’s supervisory park ranger. Despite assurances that their tournament trail is not a disruption, the ranger insists on potential issues, even as they lack the presence of rangers to manage situations.
Our serene central VA lakes and bustling tournament trail are part of our communal identity. Therefore, potential threats like this to our cherished way of life and our economy understandably leave us with a sour taste in our mouths.
This situation compels us to stand in solidarity with our fishing fraternity in Pennsylvania. We must vouch for a constructive conversation with authorities here in VA to avert such a disappointing eventuality. Because, after all, aren’t we all entitled to the simple pleasure of fishing when we want, where we want, and how we want?
Our water’s do not belong to bureaucratic policies, they belong to you and me. Together, let’s lure out a dialogue and save our beloved fishing tournaments wherever you may live!
