Shore Fishing in Fort

June 14, 2007

Hello Friends,

I am hearing rumors that there is a movement to prohibit shore fishing from the "wall" at certain locations in downtown Fort Atkinson.

Some of these areas of the Rock River have been favorites of both locals and out of town tourists since the Great Depression. The rumors say someone (or a few) are complaining about fishermen fishing the wall from the Legion Dugout to the Robert Street Bridge. Also, I have been told there have been discussions to close down shore fishing on the other side of the river (water company side) from the Main street bridge to the bike trail.

We’ve already lost most of the boat trailer parking at the downtown Fort Atkinson boat landing, we should not let some of the prime shore fishing spots be taken away as well, without having area conservation groups involved in the decision making process. To not be able to fish from shore at Lorman Park seems to go against the grain of what a public park is all about.

I am hoping the Rock River Koshkonong Association, the Lake District, and the Fort Atkinson Wisconservation Club, will discuss this issue and give their positions to Fort Atkinson city officials. The public needs to be involved in public policy.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if I can be of assistance in any way or to discuss this further.

Thank you. - Jim Furley (920) 563-7011 or (920) 723-0395 (cell).

P.S. Please forward this to members of the above organizations and those who are concerned about the future of Fort Atkinson.