For 25 years, two kind-hearted business owners from Portage have spread warmth and joy to underprivileged children with an annual “Take-A-Kid-Fishing” trip. Larry McAfee, a retired veterinarian from McAfee Animal Hospital, and Mike Blythe, president of Blythe’s Team Sports, have been friends for many years. They share an affinity for bringing fishing to kids who have never had the opportunity to fish. The unforgettable memories unfolded this year on Saturday, August 3rd from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
“Larry and I have been friends over the years,” Blythe said. “We both have ponds and for me, I wanted to share some of that space with others. For the first couple of years, I did the fishing trip on my own. After a couple of years, Larry called and we decided to partner up. Since then, it has been one of my favorite days of the year to see these kids’ faces light up.”
The “Take-A-Kid-Fishing” trip is held at McAfee’s pond in Valparaiso. Perched at the top of a hill, the 4-and-a-half acre pond offers a serene setting for the kids to embark on their first fishing adventure. McAfee and Blythe commence each trip with lessons about conversation, good sportsmanship, and mentorship. For the next two and a half hours, the kids tread onto the water with ample fishing gear and an eagerness to get a nibble. Several mentors, some of whom are former attendees, instill patience and camaraderie with the kids.
“We have one mentor per one or two kids,” Blythe said. “During the trip, we are teaching them, talking to them, asking the kids questions, and getting involved with their lives. It is a lot more than fishing, but fishing is what brings us together.”
By the end of the trip, the kids are anticipated to catch anywhere from five to 25 fish. The event is wrapped up with a trophy presentation at the end, which includes giving 10 trophies and awards, such as for the biggest fish caught and the best mental attitude. Every kid goes home with a custom T-shirt, hat, and the stellar memories of a magical first trip.
“My favorite memory from one of the trips was about 15 years ago,” McAfee said. “After maybe 15 minutes, someone was able to catch a 30 to 40 pound Chinese carp. We even got a picture of it.”
Throughout the years, the fishing trip has gained support from several local entities, previously including United Way of Portage County’s Day of Caring. Today, the two friends acquire donations and fundraising through their own merit. Bass Pro Shop has been monumental in providing rods and other fishing supply donations. Other local organizations, including Shoe's Pizzeria in Valparaiso, which proudly contributed with a donation of 125 pizzas, have been working to make this annual initiative possible.
“Boys & Girls Club of Chesterton have been strong advocates for us, sending about 40-45 kids,” McAfee said. “Porter County Parks Foundation Board also sends about five to 10 kids. They all have a ball trying to select the kids because it seems every kid in the world wants to do it.”
In the spirit of charity and altruism, McAfee and Blythe are happy to take on fundraising and plan for each year’s fishing trip. As the 25th fishing trip was approaching, the anticipation and excitement among the children, mentors, donors, and organizers was felt within the community. The “Take-A-Kid-Fishing” trip is a reaffirmation of the enduring impact of love and generosity in shaping young kids.
“The idea is a kid needs to have the best day of their life,” said Blythe. “Out of 45 kids, it is probably the very first time fishing for about 20 to 25 of the kids. It is also the very first time many of them have caught a fish. We try to give them values to go home with. Larry and I love every bit of it.”
For more information about McAfee Animal Hospital, please visit mcafeeah.com.