Scout and Fish with Fred Hodge
Fishing has been part of the Boy Scouts America for over 100 years, and it’s about to become much more important. Frank Peterson (President and CEO of the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation) and Ben Jelsema (BSA Fishing Committee Chairman) signed a partnership agreement early August to support Boy Scout fishing through its BSA Certified Angling Instructor program.
"Our goal is to double the number of Certified Angling Instructors with BSA, increasing the opportunities for Scouts ages 6-12 to get involved in fishing," said Peterson. "This partnership aligns nicely with our mission to get more people out on the water fishing and boating, in turn generating critical funds for state aquatic conservation activities."
RBFF provides resources including educational and instructional content from its Passport to Fishing and Boating Program and TakeMeFishing.org. What’s more, RBFF will aid the Boy Scouts of America in teaching youth to enjoy the outdoors, enjoy boating and fishing activities, and protect the environment and waterways.
As a nonprofit organization, the RBFF wants to increase participation in recreational angling and boating. The campaign websites, TakeMeFishing.org and VamosAPescar.org, feature how-to videos, information on how to get a fishing license and boat registration, and an interactive state-by-state map that allows visitors to find local boating and fishing spots. Visit TakeMeFishing.org for more information.
For more information on the Boy Scouts of America, please visit www.scouting.org.
Photo credit: David Lund