4-H Sportfishing

What is 4-H Sportfishing?

sport fishingThe world of youth sportfishing is about more than just catching fish. Youth learn angling skills, how to make their own tackle, important concepts in aquatic/marine ecology, and the relationship between fish, people and the environment.

As a volunteer leader, you can help local youth gain important life skills and support their positive growth and development through exciting and fun sportfishing activities and projects.

Who is involved?

The Florida 4-H Sportfishing Program works in collaboration with the Florida Sea Grant Program, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, University of Florida Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Department, and a variety of state and local partners.

Other groups at the national level involved in youth sportfishing programs and that offer resources are:

What education materials are available?

Sport Fishing Outcomes

Through participation in sportfishing projects/activities, youth will:

  • Develop the life skills of decision making, communicating, leadership, planning, and organizing.
  • Build confidence and a positive self-image.
  • Learn new skills in using a variety of fishing equipment.
  • Make and repair fishing tackle.
  • Understand the ecological and social basics of fisheries management.
  • Learn to fish responsibly.

Opportunities

Youth: Check out sportfishing camps for opportunities for you to learn about and participate in sportfishing activities. Contact your County Extension Office for possible opportunities to learn more about sportfishing.

Adults: Check out adult learning opportunities to find out about upcoming sportfishing events or training workshops.

What you can do as a Volunteer:

  • Attend a 4-H sportfishing workshop to help you become more familiar with youth-related sportfishing materials and the resources available to you.
  • Develop a variety of projects and/ or activities that allow youth to "experience" the fun and rewards of sportfishing by incorporating the experiential learning cycle in all activities.
  • Support youth in their efforts to set goals and complete projects in sportfishing.
  • Maintain records of activities and youth accomplishments.
  • Evaluate the impact.

Has somebody in 4-H recently received an award or was given recognition for an accomplishment in sportfishing? Check out our Awards & Recognition page to learn more.

County Sportfishing Programs

Find out what counties have sportfishing clubs and what they are doing. Visit your county's 4-H Web site, and search for Marine/Aquatic Projects.

Need More Information?

Contact:

  • Karen Blyler
    Coordinator, Marine/Enviromental Education 
    4-H Youth Development
    3120 McCarty Hall
    P.O. Box 110225
    Gainesville,FL 32611
    Phone: (352)846-0996, ext 246
    E-mail: blylerk@ifas.ufl.edu

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