The state funded program is aimed at teaching children about fishing, the marine environment and how to protect our natural resources, said Don Marantz, a longtime fisherman and member of several area fishing organizations. "It helps explain what conservation is and why it's important to all us and equally important, it helps our youth focus on constructive activities, keeping them off the street and away from drugs," said Marantz, who went along with the Jersey City students on the Oct. 24 fishing trip. The trip was set up by Liz Jackson of the state Division of Fish and Wild Life, Hudson County Freeholder Jose Munoz, Guttenberg Mayor Gerald Drasheff and Explore 2000 Middle School Coordinator of Field Experiences John Pontecorvo. While at sea, the children were aided by experienced anglers provided by The Hudson River Fisherman's Association, The Jersey Coast Anglers Association and The New Jersey Outdoor Alliance. "The group enjoyed a beautiful day on the ocean but regrettably, the fish did not cooperate and not many were caught," said Marantz, adding that more fishing trips will be organized.-By Michaelangelo Conte/The Jersey Journal
