No reels, no monofilament line, and handmade fish hooks with no eyelets, fishing in the 18th century was different in many ways from fishing today. Interpretive Ranger Jeremy McCormic held a class for visitors to Natchitoches’ Fort St Jean Baptiste on 18th century fishing Saturday, July 25.
Visitors got to make authentic 18th century style fish hooks. Since the hooks did not have eyelets, they also learned how to secure the hook to the cotton fishing line using a cinch knot. Interpretive Ranger McCormic also demonstrated how to make 18th century style fishing nets. The visitors then got to try out their new skills on the Cane River.
For a very modest admission price, Natchitoches’ Fort St Jean Baptiste offers a fun and educational experience for anyone curious about our area’s colonial era past.