Scores of area youngsters threatened bag and catch limits Friday afternoon on the River Center ponds during Huck Finn Fishing Day.  The event was sponsored by the Colorado Division of Wildlife, the National Wild Turkey Federation, and the Town of Pagosa Springs Recreation and Police Departments. 

Poles, bait, hot dogs and drinks were provided free of charge, kids were only required to bring a willingness to clamber through pondside weeds, rocks and bushes to stake claim to their preferred spot and have fun.  Police Chief Don Volger, Recreation Department head Tom Carosello and officers from the Division of Wildlife provided fishing tips and help with unhooking the impressive catch for the littlest youngsters.

The setting was perfect.  The midafternoon skies were dramatic.  The River Center ponds -- safe, muddy and fun for five year olds -- echoed with the spring rush of the San Juan River, and the laughter of over sixty young anglers.