August 16, 2018 — A nationally recognized state outdoor education program is coming to Mercer County, officials announced this week. Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs (HOFNOD) will run on Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Sept. 1 through Nov. 17.
It is a youth education program created by the Future Fisherman Foundation that works in partnership with the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife. It is open to youth ages 10 to 14. Those interested in the program must register to participate by Aug. 17.
“Today’s kids need an avenue into the outdoors,” Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes said in an announcement for the event. “This program provides a safe environment where kids can learn beneficial new skills.”
The goal of this program is to encourage school-age children to avoid tobacco, drug and alcohol usage by providing alternative activities while having fun. Participants can learn to fish, discover aquatic and environmental resources and develop positive life skills.