On the Fly
By: Ben Manning
Updated: May 11, 2010
SPRUCE CREEK, HUNTINGDON COUNTY - Fly fisherman hit the streams for a good cause.
It’s the 14 annual “On the Fly” fly fishing tournament, and the money goes to the Centre County Youth Service Bureau.
Spruce Creek, in Huntingdon County, was full of fly fisherman Monday afternoon. Some didn't do so well. But the fish were biting, for Bill Spicher. He caught 25 fish including a 21 inch brown trout. He was one of the top fishermen of the day.
The Harpster family donates their farm for the tournament. And every dollar raised goes to the Youth Service Bureau. Jennifer Daniels says the money will support their residential programs, counseling, and youth centers.
Spicher was fishing for Lee Industries, the main event sponsor. He says charities, especially the ones involving kids, are important to their company.
Organizers raised $28,000 before the first fly was cast, people bought raffle tickets, and there was an auction to end the evening. And the kids got in on the fundraising. Several of them painted a picture after a trip to a local dairy, and it was included in the auction. Organizers hope to raise $70,000 with the event.
And Spicher says there's no better way to raise money than chasing trout on a beautiful stream.
