Hooks and Ladders builds bonds on the lake

Showers fell, but spirits stayed high on Lake Riley.

On June 30, local youth and firefighters cast lines, swapped stories, and reeled in sunnier moments during the second annual Hooks and Ladders fishing event – a community partnership between the Eden Prairie Fire Department and the Eden Prairie area chapter of Let’s Go Fishing.

Two pontoons left the dock that evening, each able to carry 10 kids, two firefighters, a boat captain, and a first mate. A brief summer storm eventually forced the boats back to shore early, but not before the kids got in some quality time on the water.

“We try to teach them some fishing skills, but it’s really about time together on the water,” said Mike Gruidl, vice president of Let’s Go Fishing’s Eden Prairie chapter. “They’re getting to know the people who protect their community in a different way – out here, not just in uniform.”

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The free, catch-and-release outing is modeled after Let’s Go Fishing’s “Cops and Bobbers” program with Eden Prairie police. That event, held two weeks later on July 14, celebrated its seventh year. Hooks and Ladders is newer – and growing.

“The camaraderie with the fire department has been great,” Gruidl said. “Parents come up to us afterward and thank us. Some even ask how they can volunteer with Let’s Go Fishing.”

Scheels donated rods and reels for each participant, along with a keepsake wooden “walleye” – a playful reminder of the experience.

Let’s Go Fishing Eden Prairie has been hosting community fishing events since 2012. Powered entirely by volunteers, the nonprofit offers boating and fishing outings at no cost to seniors, veterans, youth, and people with disabilities. Its Lake Riley base includes two pontoons and a dedicated dock at the public landing.

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