The 733rd Force Support Division community services flight has partnered with the 733rd Security Forces Squadron and the Fort Eustis Hunting and Fishing Council board to instate a new fishing program, which requires patrons to pay a $10 fee and get a fishing license in order to fish on the installation. For more information about fishing on the installation, contact Outdoor Recreation at 878-2610. (U.S. Air Force graphic by Staff Sgt. Teresa J.C. Aber/Released) (Photo by Staff Sgt. Teresa J.C. AberReleased)
JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. —
Fisherman and families looking to spend a little time with a rod and reel on post must now acquire a fishing license from Outdoor Recreation at Fort Eustis, Virginia.
The 733rd Force Support Division community services flight has partnered with the 733rd Security Forces Squadron and the Fort Eustis board of the Hunting and Fishing Council to instate a new fishing program, which requires patrons to pay a $10 fee and get a fishing license in order to fish on the installation.
"Before this program was created, there was no way for fishers to know the laws and regulations for fishing in the area," said Joe Dumas, 733rd FSD community services flight chief. "It was difficult for the game warden and law enforcement to enforce the regulations because no one knew what they could or couldn't do."
The new program, initiated in March, provides U.S. Service members and their families, retirees and members of the local community with information on the approved locations for fishing on the installation as well as the safety requirements and laws regarding saltwater or freshwater fishing.
"The only way to get people to comply is to have them understand the rules," said John Challis, 733rd Security Forces Squadron deputy director. "Now by selling a permit, people come in, get a copy of the rules and sign a memorandum saying they understand them. Therefore they know what they're supposed to do so when we enforce the rules there's no questions whether they were right or wrong."
The program managers have seen great success since they began issuing permits. More than 300 permits have been issued since May.
"We're putting the money we make from the permits back into the program," said Carl Stover, Hunting and Fishing Council, Fort Eustis board member. "We're able to purchase more port-a-potty's to put out near popular fishing spots. When you talk about family outings, having a bathroom available is a major added value."
Stover said he hopes to see the program grow to provide Soldiers and retirees a place to unwind and have fun.
"It's all about the spirit of the program," said Stover. "We want patrons to feel a sense of security on the installation and have a place they can come and clear their heads."
For more information about fishing on the installation, contact Outdoor Recreation at 878-2610.