Why fishing matters...

Positive developmental impact on children

Adolescents, for many reasons, can greatly benefit from engaging in recreational fishing. Research on recreational fishing and adolescence has also shown that fishing can impact adolescents’ sense of wellbeing, resilience, optimism, self-esteem, self-discipline, identity formation, key life skills, self-efficacy, locus of control, patience, self-control, and perceived stress levels.

Positive impact on relationship building

In addition to helping children develop, fishing can be an important component to assist with relationship building, particularly if the entire family is involved in the sport. Sharing a fishing experience helps strengthen relationships with family and friends. Providing quality youth fishing experience is important, but just as important is the building of a support group for these young anglers. What better support mechanism is there than the family unit? 

Positive impact on environmental stewardship

Introducing children to fishing can also prove to be a plus for the environment. Anglers are acutely aware of the importance of clean water and air and pride themselves on protecting and preserving our environment, natural communities, and valuable habitat. Fishing can help children to learn to care for and about nature, and fishing forces one to be concerned about the physical well-being of our lakes, rivers, and ponds. It also prompts children to learn about the various plants, animals, and insects that one may encounter while fishing.