ROSCOE –– Anglers were joined by members of the community on Tuesday to kick off the opening of fishing season with the annual First Cast ceremony at Roscoe’s Junction Pool. This year honored Judy Van Put alongside her son Lee, as the pair waded into the rivers to try for an opening day trout.

“Despite the cold temperatures the last few years, the first cast of opening day is the unofficial start of spring and summer around here,” said Christine Routledge, President of the Roscoe Chamber of Commerce. “Being able to honor local celebrities like Judy and her son Lee, a family with such a rich history of fly fishing in the area, is what this event is all about. I’m grateful for all of the sponsors that continue to make this event such a success year after year.”

Judy Van Put shared her thoughts on the day about casting in the frigid temps:

It was freezing cold - the air temp was 34 and the water 43 degrees…and there was ice in the guides of my rod! Despite being bundled up I was cold, and in a hurry to get the fly on the water…no fish (I realized my son Lee and I were asked to do First Cast, not First Catch!) but lots of warmth from all the friends and neighbors on the shore cheering us on. The Welcome Tent was a wonderful treat, with lots of hot coffee, delicious breakfast sandwiches and pastries. John and the gals arrived before sunrise to have everything ready. A great experience!

Refreshments were provided by the Roscoe Campsite Park, allowing attendees to stay warm with a fresh cup of coffee as they made their way streamside.