HERYN June 21, 2025 (Day 3): Program is becoming a tradition within families as younger siblings get involved

​​Ten-year-old Callen Lenches, of Danville, has been anxiously waiting for his turn to follow in his older brother, Vayden’s footsteps and participate in the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association’s annual HERYN (Helping Engage our River’s Youth with Nature) kayaking and fishing summer day camps.
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On Saturday, June 21, he finally got his opportunity.

“I don’t get to fish and kayak that much, so it was good to learn how to handle when a kayak flips,” he said. Meanwhile, he caught 12 panfish after a series of morning sessions on casting and knot tying that allowed him to be more independent at the lakeside while still under the guidance of adult helpers when needed.

“I love that my boys can have this kind of experience with knowledgeable sportsmen mentors,” mentioned his mother, Coty, on his exit survey.

The program began five years ago via a PA Fish and Boat Commission R3 grant with the goal of getting more young people engaged in watersport activities.

“I liked everything,” shared 13-year-old Alix Kramarz, of Danville, after his June 21 HERYN program day. “This makes me want to do more fishing and kayaking.”

Learn more about the program here.

Check out some photos from the June 21 program day below: