AROUND TA
Popularity of This Club is No Fish Story
Reading , writing , and ... fishing ? Indeed , it ’ s one of the most popular activities at Thornton .
The TA Anglers Society , led by science teacher Josh Delcourt , introduces students to the outdoors through experiences that build memories and skills . The highlight of the year : a fishing trip to a remote spot reachable only by hiking through the wilderness or canoeing a waterway — or both .
This annual overnight fills up quickly , often within a day . Some members are seasoned anglers , while others are drawn by tales from Josh ’ s Maine Wildlife class . The adventure isn ’ t for the faint-hearted ; each participant carries a 30-40 pound dry bag , and the canoes , each weighing 92 pounds , are transported by pairs of students .
Josh selects remote locations intentionally , offering better fishing , but more importantly , a challenge that builds resilience , “ They say ‘ it ’ s the most rewarding thing I ’ ve ever done .’” Reaching Allagash Lake , for example , involves a 75-mile journey over dirt roads , then a mile hike carrying all gear to the water .
The trips are phone-free ; mobile devices don ’ t work , and students are encouraged to unplug . Safety gear includes a beacon for emergencies , and students learn teamwork , catch-andrelease fishing , and leave with great memories . “ They laugh the whole way there ,” says Josh . “ Laughter on the van is the best part .”
The club started modestly in 2013 with two students and an ice-fishing trip , growing to over 200 participants . After years of storing canoes in Josh ’ s yard , the TA Anglers now have a dedicated shed for six canoes , a trailer , and gear , funded by Shed Happens , the John C . Duranceu Scholarship Fund , Tyler Gilbert , the Stohl Family , and fundraising events like a rubber ducky race and hoodie sales .
“ It ’ s not about fishing — it ’ s about teaching them to appreciate the outdoors ,” says Josh . “ It ’ s a memorable learning experience , and we just happen to be fishing .”
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