Families fly fish, cool down at Kern River Parkway Festival
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — The City of Bakersfield increased Kern River flows near the Park at River Walk Saturday for the Kern River Parkway Festival.
Many came to the festival to play in the water, but the mission is to support the river that brings life to our County. In the desert, it’s more precious than gold, and right now it’s flowing better than ever through the city of Bakersfield: The mighty Kern River.
Bakersfield’s Water Resources Department increased Kern River flows near the Park at River Walk to spring life into the River Parkway Festival, which was full of food, river activities and education.
“We’re trying to teach younger people how to fly fish, cast a fly rod and maybe they’ll go fishing and beyond the Kern River as it flows all the way through Bakersfield,” said Jim Ahrens, fly fishing instructor.
Jim Ahrens is with the Kern River Fly Fishing Club. He said if the river’s flowing, people will enjoy it.
“It’s like anything, you just learn it. We’re happy to give you lessons anytime,” said Ahrens.
There are more than a dozen food vendors on site to keep you full while you fish including El Churro Guy.
“First time I had one I was in Mexico when I was out there and I enjoyed it,” said Zeke Rivera, also known as Mr. Churro.
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Rivera started his business in Bakersfield 4 years ago. His pastries are a cut above the rest at 16 inches long, and he sells a whole lot.
“A very good festival, about 300 churros in 1 day,” said Rivera.
The city increases the rates of flow downstream of the Bellevue Weir near the Park at River Walk and it’s bringing families together in the name of conservation.
“Anytime I can support, I’m out here,” said Alfonso Suarez.
Alfonso Suarez and his family love the Kern River so much they keep it clean whenever they can. Suarez moved to Bakersfield from Los Angeles 4 years ago, and he hasn’t gone back for a good reason.
“The thing that stands out the most is the nature surrounding us. You know, you feel the seasons. You see the hills go from gold to green throughout the year and it’s beautiful,” said Suarez. “That’s one thing that needs to be exemplified throughout everybody in this city.”
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