07/10/2026
North Bend Lake Youth Outing – West Virginia Chapter 09 Muskies, Inc. June 27, 2026
Chapter 09 hosted our 2026 Youth Fishing Outing on North Bend Lake near Harrisville, WV on Saturday June 27. We had fourteen (14) young people sign up for the event ranging in age from one to nineteen. Most were member related except for four who were visiting the lake for other reasons and joined our activities.
We especially want to thank Andy Law of North Bend Outfitters for allowing us to utilize his extremely nice facility on the lake for the day. His venue features lake access with shaded patio, plenty of seating and table space to allow for a comfortable event. He provided a grill which enabled us to enjoy grilled hot dogs, which, along with macaroni salad, desserts and all sorts of drinks and goodies made for a nice lunch midday provided by the membership.
All youth who attended were provided gear and equipment when needed. Some received rod and reel combos when needed, all received tackle boxes filled with goodies. Live bait was also available if they wanted it.
Excellent fishing access was provided via docks and a paved walking path several hundred feet in length along the shore line. Having a nice rail fence along the path made it easy for fishing as well as providing a safe environment for the young people.
Despite heavy rains previously, the lake was in great condition. Summer pool with a green color made a stark contrast to muddy conditions only a few miles upstream in the upper stretches of the lake.
Heavy rain was predicted for most of the day but this didn’t develop. We experienced periods of no rain, very light sprinkles and only a moderate steady shower about the time we were eating. After lunch, the showers stopped for a time allowing us to finish the day in good order. If you were present, you wouldn’t even know it was wet at all. Young and old alike were laughing, yelling and telling stories just as if the sun was shining. Even the fish didn’t seem to pay attention to the weather. Except for a slight lull during the heavier shower while we were eating, the fish cooperated just like we wanted. Almost everyone enjoyed success that spent some time fishing.
Zack Thomas, grandson of John Cade, probably caught the most fish during the day. He landed 16 fish which included a very nice large catfish. He also lost another one while lifting it over the fence. Ava Lee, granddaughter of Charlie Carpenter fished a close second to Zack as she landed a total of 12 fish herself. She was closely followed by her brother Alex Lee who brought I believe 10 fish to land. Big Bass of the day went to Luke Moore who landed a very good one at least 18 inches long or more weighing probably two or three pounds.
L-R Jayde and Zack Thomas Alex Lee with fish Ava Lee and Grandpa Charlie
John Cade’s grandsons Charlie Carpenter’s grandson
Luke Moore Bass Chapter 09 Registration Lunch Time
Not to be left out, two year old Titus Bennett not only got his first ever fishing pole and tackle box, he was able to reel in two fish on his first ever fishing trip. Bass and bluegill made up his mixed bag.
2 year old Titus Bennett’s first fish 1 year old Justis Bennett, my first rod, watch out now!
2 year old Titus “Dad, Ive got a big one” Jim Moore Grandsons
Dad Kenton, “No son, it’s my leg!” Gage Moore and Mason Gould
In total, over 40 fish were landed by the group. All were safely released to catch another day and most got their pictures taken. I’ve included many of them in this summary.
I want to thank all who helped make this a successful outing. Several members provided drinks, snacks and chips to the lunch menu. Sherry Moore provided the macaroni salad and hotdog sauce. My Granddaughter Bailey grilled the hotdogs under the tutorage of Kevin Kelley. Two members provided cash donations which helped make the day memorable for the young people who received lots of gear and goodies. Thanks also to the MI National Youth Committee who provided us a $475.00 grant towards the day. Bill and Sharon again provided a number of quality Crane Baits to help the cause. All in all, you provided a quality outing for the young people of our membership as well as several who were welcomed guests. I only wish more of our young ones would have been there. Thank You.
President, Jim Moore
