Take A Kid Fishing

johnnie crain outdoors · Fri Oct 03, 2003 6:29 pm

Pro Staff,
I know we all talk about taking kid's fishing, but I was wondering how many of the staffers actually did it this year? I mean an organized fishing event where youth were involved. I have formed a youth fishing derby with 14 members and we fish off the bank- once a month during good weather, it has been great fun for the kids and myself.
I know Dan Galusha has a great CastingKids event which draws a lot of kids. Anyone one else active?

brendanc · Post by **brendanc** » Mon Oct 06, 2003 1:37 pm

Johnnie,

I usually get involved in the youth functions held by my local bass club, but this year I had so many conflicting dates that I was not able to attend any... Bassin' USA did sponsors a couple of D.E.C. events for youths, but it not the same as getting out there and being directly involved with the kids. Next year I will be getting back into the swing of things.

Since you brought this up, for anyone who is interested in getting more involved with helping kids learn about fishing and the outdoors, talk to your state conservation or protection agency. They are always looking for people to assist and/or head up events like Johnnie and Dan are talking about.

Give the D.E.P or D.E.C. a call and ask them if there is an event coming up and if they would like some assistance? I'm sure they will welcome your support. These are also great people to contact if you would like to run your own event... getting them involved with your projects can only add to the experience for the kids.

BC

johnnie crain outdoors · Tue Oct 07, 2003 4:26 am

Thanks Brendan, good advise. There's nothing better than a smiling child holding a fish.

johnnie crain outdoors · Wed Oct 08, 2003 4:31 am

Here's how I help the kids. I started the Muscatine Future Anglers Club for anglers between five and 15 years of age. Bank fishing only and casting contests for now. For $5 per child BASS will insure the club. If parents can't or won't pay, then I pay it. I got the local bait shop to donate all worms,minnows and small tackle items needed. Scott's Outdoors has been great. They put pictures of the kids fishing on the shop wall, sort of a wall of fame. Through my newspaper columns about the club, several local anglers have donated tackle or cash to help out. The local bass club helps with manpower. Anyone can, and should do this. There are some great kids out there. In one event I sponsored a letter writing contest, Why I Love Fishing, the local G-3 boat dealer allowed me to use a 2004 G3 bass boat to take the winner fishing, so happens a Brother/Sister team won and we had a great time. Again, the bait shop donated all fishing tackle. One person can change a lot of childrens lives. Help me help them. Johnnie

6.54BASS · Post by **6.54BASS** » Thu Oct 09, 2003 12:44 am

I agree whole heartedly! Teaching a kid about the sport and all that goes with it can and usually does give them an appreciation for the outdoors as well as a different outlook on life, and hopefully keeps them out of trouble. Johnnie, keep up the good work!

johnnie crain outdoors · Thu Oct 09, 2003 2:49 am

Thanks Bryan, it's my pleasure.