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Some drink bourbon. Some invest in it. How 'flipping bottles' is changing

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Thursday, November 6th 2025 at 22:39 GMT by The Cincinnati Enquirer

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Ohio’s “Single Barrel Saturday” Set to Draw Throng of Flippers to the Riverfront

On a bright Saturday morning in early November, the Ohio River’s banks in Cincinnati are slated to buzz with excitement as the city gears up for its most‑anticipated local tradition: “Single Barrel Saturday.” The event, which has become a staple of the region’s outdoor culture, will see a single, large barrel of fish released into the river, drawing anglers, families, and curious onlookers alike. According to the coverage on Cincinnati.com, the day is expected to attract thousands of “flippers” – a playful nod to both the physical flippers of the fish and the enthusiastic fishermen who will come in droves to catch a bite.

The Roots of a River‑Side Ritual

The tradition traces back to the 1970s, when local fishermen and conservationists began a program to supplement the Ohio River’s fish populations during the winter months. The practice, which began as a modest effort to release a single barrel of native species such as brown trout and smallmouth bass, evolved into an annual community event. “It’s a celebration of our river heritage,” says Marina Harlow, a senior angler and long‑time participant. “We’ve turned what started as a small fish release into a full‑blown festival that honors the river and the people who depend on it.”

The concept was formalized by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), whose 2025 Fish Release Program page outlines the criteria for the barrel’s contents: native fish species that can thrive in the river’s current, careful weighing to avoid overcrowding, and a release schedule designed to minimize ecological impact. The ODNR’s page also provides guidelines for anglers, such as recommended gear and safety protocols.

What to Expect on Saturday

The official Ohio State Fair & Exposition schedule, shared by the fair’s website, lists the key milestones for the day:

• 7:30 a.m. – Doors open for the Riverfront Festival, a family‑friendly fair featuring food trucks, live music, and fishing workshops.
• 9:00 a.m. – The barrel’s opening ceremony, led by the Cincinnati Riverkeeper Association, with a ribbon‑cutting by Mayor Luis Alvarez and the ODNR’s Director of Fisheries.
• 10:00 a.m. – Release of the barrel into the river, with a synchronized countdown visible from the riverbank.
• 12:00 p.m. – First‑Catch Contest for the largest fish taken from the barrel, judged by local fishing pros.
• 3:00 p.m. – Closing ceremony, including a short talk on sustainable fishing practices and a community pledge to protect the river.

The day is also packed with ancillary activities: a Kids Fishing Corner where children can try their hand at casting, a River Health Exhibit that showcases data on water quality, and a Local Vendor Market selling handcrafted items and regional delicacies.

Throngs of Flippers: The Human Element

The term “flippers” in the article captures the dual nature of the crowd: the literal flippers of the fish and the figurative “flippers” of the crowd’s excitement. Local fishing shop owner Tom Reynolds describes the crowd as “a sea of bright shirts, hats, and fishing poles.” He notes that the event has grown in popularity over the past decade, partly due to the rising interest in “fly fishing” and the community’s commitment to conservation. “The single barrel idea is simple, but it gives people a tangible connection to the river,” Reynolds says.

Community groups such as the Cincinnati Environmental Coalition have taken an active role in promoting the event. Their social media outreach, shared via a link to the coalition’s Facebook page, highlights the environmental significance of the release. The coalition’s posts also remind attendees to respect wildlife, follow leave‑no‑trace principles, and properly dispose of litter.

Logistics, Safety, and Sustainability

The Cincinnati City Council’s public safety brief, referenced in the article’s footnotes, outlines the logistical framework that will support the influx of visitors. Parking will be managed by the city’s Parking Authority, with dedicated spaces along the riverfront and a shuttle service to the fairgrounds. Security personnel will monitor the riverbank and provide assistance to those unfamiliar with safe fishing practices.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has partnered with the American Fisheries Society to monitor the health of the river post‑release. According to the ODNR’s 2025 Fish Release Program, the barrel will contain approximately 1,200 fish, a number chosen to support the river’s natural regeneration without causing ecological imbalance.

Economic and Cultural Impact

Beyond the angling and ecological benefits, the event’s economic impact is significant. The local Chamber of Commerce’s report, linked within the article, estimates that the Riverfront Festival attracts an average of $3 million in spending per year from attendees. Local restaurants, hotels, and retail outlets see a surge in business, reinforcing the event’s role as a community cornerstone.

Culturally, the event serves as a living classroom for residents and visitors alike. By witnessing the barrel’s release and observing the fish’s adaptation to the river, participants gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of aquatic ecosystems.

Looking Ahead

As the event approaches, organizers are encouraging the public to stay tuned for updates via the Cincinnati.com live feed, which will provide real‑time coverage of the fish release, interviews with participants, and a live count of fish caught. For those unable to attend in person, the feed offers a virtual window into Ohio’s river heritage.

With the promise of a clear sky, a thriving river, and the buzz of throngs of flippers eager to test their lines, Single Barrel Saturday stands as a testament to Ohio’s commitment to sustainable recreation, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. Whether you’re a seasoned angler, a family looking for a fun day out, or someone curious about the river’s natural rhythm, the event invites you to be part of a living tradition that has shaped the region for over half a century.