With increased interest and funds being invested in angling programs for youth, learning how important it is to expose people in their younger years to fishing was critical. We offer perspective on how and when it might be most effective to offer youth fishing programs to maximize return on investments and R3 efforts.

We found that elementary-aged youth might be most receptive to these types of programs. Also, make fishing a social event! Bring fishing to the youth through their schooling, summer camp activities, or scouting events. Or, set up the fishing program so that attendees are encouraged to bring family members and participate with them. State agencies and the sportfishing industry can provide support on the local level by partnering with retailers and promoting the existence of youth fishing programs within communities. Ultimately, programs like these can lead to experiencing the novelty and thrill of catching a fish and, show that fishing is fun!

Review the full study to learn more about how to best reel people into the joys of angling and design fishing programs targeting the youth.