Ah, the change of the seasons. Too bad someone is usually passing some cold around the home and office this time of year. Sometimes I’d prefer if people didn’t share.
But share we must when it comes to a different kind of bug. The fishing bug that brings thousands back to the water does the opposite of the common cold; rather than make people sick, fishing builds health, memories, and promotes conservation of our precious natural resources, making it highly desirable both personally and for the good of the nation.
It’s no secret that today fishing faces an incredible challenge. Current participation trends show younger, more diverse audiences reluctant to take up fishing and boating, all while older while males are aging out of the sport. In the interest of fixing the impact that decreased fishing and boating participation would have on our nation’s economy, conservation efforts and the fishing and boating industry, the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF) embarked last year on a grand effort: 60 million anglers in 60 months. This initiative, coined “60 in 60” by RBFF, provides an aspirational goal that should work to inspire others in the industry to do their part to help realize this goal.
Launched in April of 2016, we have now passed 11 of those 60 months with 49 more to go in pursuit of seeing 60 million lines in the water.
So, while we’re thinking about the changing seasons, take time to plan how you will spread the fishing bug. After all, this one is worth sharing.
