Ase Tsi Tewaton Fishing Experience

The Ase Tsi Tewaton/ACR Fishing and River Use apprentices are offering a unique opportunity to take you fishing. On Monday afternoon I spent the afternoon on the Racquette River learning to fish – again. Having grown up on the St. Lawrence River, with a fishing and hunting guide as a father one would think, what else is there to learn?

Plenty, it seems. Tewakerahkwa Audrey Herne, an apprentice with three years experience with the Ase Tsi Tewaton Fishing and River Use program shared her knowledge and wisdom about fishing. But there was so much more, she also shared information on the shoreline and its fragile, yet vital role to the health of the river. She talked about erosion along the banks, the balance of water life, boat safety, and 'how to fish', but also how to clean, prepare and cook fish.

Since being with Ase Tsi Tewaton/ACR, Tewakerahkwa stated her grasp of the Mohawk language has improved considerably, to the point of now being able to make words for things and events that didn't exist before. She is acutely aware of how our language is key to who we are and how understanding and speaking Kanien'keha give you a better sense of the world around you. Language is the key to being Onkwehonwe.

With all that she shared, there was more. There was a renewed sense of calm and quiet joy of just being on the water.

ACR and the Fish and Water Life apprentices are offering this fishing experience for the month of October and possibly longer, if the weather holds out. To schedule an afternoon lesson on fishing in Akwesasne, call 518 333 0222.