First Baptist Church of Tryon hosted its third Hooked program of the year at Tryon Estates on Sunday, June 12. 

Hooked is a program provided through First Baptist Church of Tryon for the entire community, geared at teaching children how to fish and to enjoy the outdoors.

Bill Stillerman, president of the Baptist Retirement Homes of North Carolina, wanted to do something in memory of his brother, David, who was an avid outdoorsman. Stillerman learned that Phil Feagan, a First Baptist Church of Tryon member who has served on the board of the Baptist Retirement Homes of North Carolina for a number of years, and a few others enjoy fishing so Stillerman offered to fund the program through a generous donation.

Hooked is a program for parents and children but everyone is welcome to attend. Those attending do not need fishing equipment, experience or a license. The program provides fishing equipment and bait, instruction, drinks and a light dinner at every event. So far this year, Hooked has visited ponds at White Oak Mountain, Derbyshire and Tryon Estates.

First Baptist Church of Tryon Pastor Jeff Harris says Hooked is a great opportunity to foster friendships with each other as well as with others in the community, especially with foster children and those involved with Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

Hooked is aimed at teaching children and others to enjoy and respect the outdoors, encourage friendships and learn how to fish.

The next Hooked program will be held on Sept. 25 at White Oak Mountain from 2-5 p.m. and another on Oct. 16 at Tryon Estates from 2-5 p.m.

Hooked asks that at least one parent be present with children.

Anyone planning to attend is asked to RSVP to help provide the correct amount of fishing equipment, volunteers and food.

For more information or to RSVP call the First Baptist Church of Tryon at 828-859-5375 or email Harris at jeffreycharris@gmail.com.