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Sam Penrod ReportingOne by one, special needs kids from all over Utah County arrived at Salem pond for a day of fishing. Up and down the banks, all you could see were fishing poles and very excited kids. And thanks to the Division of Wildlife Resources, there were enough fish in the pond, so everyone reels one in.
Scott Root, DWR Conservation Outreach Manager: "For some of them it's the only time of the year they get out is to catch fish, and they go nuts."
When fishing day started at Salem pond 17 years ago, only 17 kids were there. Today there are more than 1,400.
Jason Werner, Volunteer: "It's really heartwarming to see the smiles and thrill of a first fish. It's been years since I caught my first one, so it's been great to relive it through these kids' eyes."
The Jazz Bear was there to make sure everyone got a hug. And at least one fish got a kiss.
No one left, hungry, thanks to Albertson's who brought lunch for more than 2,000 people.
Frank Yaksitch, Albertsons: "You can look around and see the happiness on the faces, that's our primary driver for helping these kids."
And while these kids came to catch a fish, everyone at Salem pond today went home with a smile.
