60 Years of Tradition: A Fisherman’s Feast to Kick Off Trout Season!
By Autumn Gavlock
MILL HALL – On the morning of Saturday, April 5, 2025, the Mill Hall Volunteer Fire Company, along with sportsmen and community members, gathered for the time-honored tradition of the 60th Annual Fisherman’s Breakfast. Hosted by the dedicated volunteers and first responders of the Mill Hall Volunteer Fire Company, this event has been a beloved tradition for families over the past six decades.
Attendees were treated to a hearty spread of pancakes, sausage, coffee, and orange juice. The turnout was impressive, with a total of 445 breakfasts sold. Despite the rain and chilly weather conditions, attendance remained strong. Once again, community members, sportsmen, old friends, and newcomers gathered to kick off the season in the only way they know how.
“We were so pleased with this year’s increase in attendance. I saw friends I hadn’t seen in 20 years come out to support,” said Bill Strunk, Financial Secretary and Trustee of the Mill Hall Volunteer Fire Company.
State representatives and other distinguished guests also joined in the celebration. Notable figures included State Representative Stephanie Borowicz, Clinton County Commissioner Angela Harding, Clinton County Treasurer Michelle Kunes, Clinton County Sheriff Kerry Stover, The Honorable Judge Michael Salisbury of Clinton County, Mill Hall Mayor Thomas Bossert, and candidate Leslie Clukey, who is running for Treasurer in this Spring’s May election. Their presence highlighted the event’s significance to the community.
“I am always so impressed by the community’s response to the Fisherman’s Breakfast every year,” said Clukey.
“Having been a part of this local community my whole life, it was such a pleasure to walk around, speak with families, hear their fishing stories, and learn about their traditions. It was an honor to be a part of that special time. The event also gave me the opportunity to answer questions about my campaign and service plans.”
Clukey added, “I can’t thank the volunteers enough for all the hard work they put into making this event a success and for allowing me the opportunity to connect with voters and fellow community members.”
Additionally, local radio personality Mark the Shark from 92.1 WSQV broadcasted live from the event, capturing interviews, fishing tales, and perspectives from fishermen and attendees. At the breakfast, attendees had the chance to participate in a special giveaway, including a collaboration between Mark the Shark and JD’s Bait & Tackle, offering a $50 gift certificate.
Despite the challenging fishing conditions brought about by the rain and chilly temperatures, the event was a success. Reflecting on the occasion, the Mill Hall Volunteer Fire Company expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the event’s success. “The Fisherman’s Breakfast speaks to the strong sense of community and sportsmanship that defines our town,” they remarked. “It’s heartwarming to see so many come together to celebrate our shared love for fishing and the great outdoors. With 60 years under our belt, we could never have made this event last this long and become this successful without the families and generational support it has had over the years. We truly live in such a wonderful community.”
“We would also like to thank everyone for their generous donations to our boot drive. Your support helps us continue to serve and protect our community, and we truly appreciate your contributions,” they added.
The Record spoke with a few young anglers before they headed out to fish, hoping to bring home a prized trout.
Young Leo Stover, 5, shared his excitement: “I can’t wait to catch a BIG fish. It’s gonna be HUGE.” Leo enjoyed the Fisherman’s Breakfast tradition with his mother, father, and grandfather.
Another young pair, Jarron and Julie McCloskey, also spoke with The Record. Jarron, 9, was eager to share his love for the pancakes at the breakfast, stating, “They’re the best pancakes in the world!” Meanwhile, Julie, 7, was asked if she baited her own hook. She replied that she enjoyed playing with the worms more than baiting them on the hook, but when it was time to get down to business, she called for reinforcements from her dad.
As the last pancakes were flipped and the final cups of coffee were sipped, the Mill Hall Fire Company closed out another successful Fisherman’s Breakfast. The event was a reminder of the dedication and communal bond that defines the Mill Hall community. With memories made and traditions continued, the 60th Annual Fisherman’s Breakfast concluded, leaving the promise of many more successful trout seasons to come in Pennsylvania.
