REEL MOMENTS: Family Fishing Experiences w/Arabia Alliance
About this Event
What to Expect
Join South DeKalb Parks Naturalist Tasha Messer and community partner Jennifer Dickie of the Arabia Mountain Heritage Area Alliance for REEL MOMENTS: Family Fishing Experiences, a welcoming outdoor program designed to introduce participants of all ages and experience levels to the joys of fishing while exploring one of DeKalb County's hidden natural treasures.
We'll begin by gathering at the pavilion overlooking Glen Emerald Park's lake before making our way to our shoreline fishing locations. Throughout the morning, participants will receive beginner-friendly fishing instruction, learn about local fish species and aquatic ecosystems, practice ethical catch-and-release techniques, and discover how healthy waterways support both wildlife and outdoor recreation.
Whether you're casting a line for the first time or continuing a favorite family tradition, this experience offers an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories along the water's edge.
Program Leaders
- Naturalist Tasha Messer
South DeKalb Parks Naturalist
DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs - Jennifer Dickie
Program Manager
Arabia Mountain Heritage Area Alliance
Where to Meet
Meet Naturalist Tasha at Glen Emerald Park (1479 Bouldercrest Road, Atlanta, GA 30316) on the sidewalk between the tennis courts and the playground. This walkway leads toward the pavilion and lake. Please arrive 10–15 minutes early to check in before the program begins.
What to Bring
Dress comfortably for spending the morning outdoors and near the water. Closed-toe shoes are recommended. Please bring a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal snacks you'd like during the program.
Participants are welcome to bring their own fishing equipment if preferred; however, fishing rods, reels, bait, and basic tackle will be provided while supplies last.
Optional items such as a camp chair, outdoor blanket, or sitting cushion are encouraged for added comfort along the shoreline.
Restrooms
Restroom facilities are not available at Glen Emerald Park. Please plan accordingly before arriving.
Recommended Ages
This experience is designed for youth, families, and adults. Anglers of all ages and experience levels are welcome.
Dogs
Because participants will be fishing along the shoreline and using fishing equipment with hooks and lines, this program is not appropriate for dogs. Please leave your pets at home.
Weather Contingency
This program will proceed rain or shine unless weather or site conditions are determined to be unsafe by DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs. Participants will be notified as early as possible if changes become necessary.
Walking Distance
Minimal walking is required. Participants should expect short walks between the meeting area and nearby fishing locations, with extended periods of standing or sitting along the shoreline.
Exposure
This program takes place outdoors around the lake where participants should expect a combination of full sun and limited shade. Summer temperatures, humidity, insects, and uneven natural terrain are common. Please dress appropriately and come prepared for changing outdoor conditions.
Trail Surface & Accessibility
Participants will travel primarily across grass, compacted soil, and natural shoreline surfaces. Terrain may include gentle slopes, uneven ground, and occasional muddy conditions near the water's edge. Because fishing locations vary depending on water conditions and participant needs, accessibility may differ throughout the program.
If you have questions about whether this experience will meet your mobility needs, please contact Naturalist Tasha Messer at [email protected] before the program.
Waiver & Release
By registering for this activity, each participant acknowledges and agrees that participation is voluntary and at their own risk and agrees to hold DeKalb County and its officers, agents, servants, and employees harmless from and against any claims, loss, damage, charge, or expense arising from participation in this program.
Participants further acknowledge that DeKalb County is not responsible for the acts of other participants, which may include interested individuals, members of civic, religious, or community organizations, and individuals completing court-ordered community service.
By participating, you grant permission for photographs, video recordings, and audio recordings of yourself and/or your child(ren) taken during this program by DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs to be used for non-commercial educational and promotional purposes. Participants will not receive compensation for the use of these materials.
Program Photos: We love documenting our programs and may share photographs on DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs' websites, publications, and social media platforms. While participants are welcome to take their own photos, photographs taken by staff are generally intended for County documentation and promotional purposes and are not routinely distributed to participants.
~ Naturalist Tasha
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
