Fishing helps conquer tough times

WINNECONNE - With the economy still struggling, and so many people out of work, one industry in Wisconsin is actually growing for some businesses.

"It's the economy, they're all fishing instead of working I guess," said DNR Warden Michael Young.

The unemployed angler is becoming more common on the Wolf River this spring

"In checking with the guys, a lot of guys are laid off so they're out here fishing," said Young. "There's more people out here than the last 15 years I've been here.

Further south on the Wolf River, the poor economy is having a positive effect on a local business here in Winneconne. The Wolf River Resort is doing better business this spring than it was a year ago at this time.

"I would guess we're running 10 to 15 percent above normal," said Doug Nelson, the owner of Wolf River Resorts. "It looks like we'll go that route until June. We don't have reservations for the whole year. April and the whole month of May looks great until June."

On the river anglers are having moderate success. On the Winneconne bridge, even an occasional bite can dull the pain of financial stress.

"I've heard a couple say they've been laid off," said angler Ken Lazire of Illinois. "They're up here trying to spend a little time away from home and get away from their problems."