Fishing for a brighter future – Summit Lake

Henry David Thoreau once said, “Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after.”  This statement resonates in the Summit Lake community weekly as Summit Metro Parks staff take out fishing reels and coolers of bait on Saturday mornings.

Summit Lake has an extensive history of tall tales and myths that are partially rooted in truths. Everything from Ferris wheels to alligators are factors in the local folklore of Summit Lake. Two years ago with the infusion of funding from Reimagining Civic Commons, Summit Metro Parks opened the door of a pop-up nature center located in the Reach Opportunity Center at Summit Lake. Programming for all ages emerged like a caterpillar from its chrysalis. Everything from reggae yoga, nutrition programs, safety awareness, Balloflex and fishing started to bring out the young and old, short and tall, man, woman and child.

Fishing, however, stood out from the other programs that are offered. Regardless who you are or where you come from, we are all on equal footing as we stand on the banks of Summit Lake. Seasoned fishermen from the neighborhood come out to assist the children in taking the “catch of the day” off the line while eager parents race to post pictures of their excited children.  Fishing is the great equalizer. Today, fishing in Summit Lake is bringing us all together as we cast our lines for perch, bluegills and bass. The renewed energy in the developing friends and family while connecting with nature encourages us to cast our lines for a brighter future in Summit Lake.

Demetrius Lambert-Falconer
Chief of Community Engagement
Summit Metro Parks