Drop A Line and Contribute to a Centuries-old Fishing Tradition

By: Matthew Streets

Master Program Assistant at DPR Cultural Heritage  

Looking to enjoy some time outdoors? West Point on the Eno provides many opportunities to hike, take a park tour, picnic, relax, or fish! On top of that, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience history firsthand. Beginning April 2nd and continuing every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am to 12:00pm, visit the West Point Mill and participate in the Drop A Line: Cane Pole Fishing program. There is something for everyone—whether you enjoy fishing or prefer learning about local history.  

Fishing kits—with tackle and an instruction guide included—are available to check out at the mill.  Participants have the option to use a pre-constructed cane fishing pole or assemble one of their own. Staff will be on-hand in the West Point Mill to assist participants in the registration, pole construction, and even fishing permit procedures (if you don’t have one, don’t worry). They will also provide a historical overview of fishing at the Eno River that spans several centuries!

Want to know how to get started with your fishing adventure? Just stop by the mill and borrow a kit! Fishing kits will be handed out on a first-come-first-served basis. If they are all in use when you arrive, don’t worry —there are plenty of other exciting activities at West Point on the Eno!  

       

West Point on the Eno Park Tours

Park tours take place at 10:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, and 1:00pm on Saturdays and Sundays. They start at the McCown-Mangum House. Be sure to join us for our 10:00am tour on Saturdays. Participants on this tour will delve into the lives of the enslaved and emancipated individuals at West Point on the Eno. William “Dink” McCown’s West Point explores what life may have been like for the West Point miller through enslavement, then emancipation, and life as a freedman. Visitors can also hike the park’s trails, generally enjoy the outdoors, and picnic. We can’t wait to see you this season! 

The Drop A Line: Cane Pole Fishing program is free and open to everyone ages five and up.

There will be no cane pole check-outs on April 9th.