Saltwater Expo proves Youth Fishing Hope exists!

[dales529]

One of the best parts of working the RFA booth at the shows is our fish catching simulator which is free for kids. We were busy Saturday and while its technically a video game the participants gave me some renewed hope in our future. The kids aging from 3 -17 were ALL polite, spoke eloquently about their REAL life fishing experiences, enjoyment of the outdoors and anticipation of the upcoming seasons both fresh and saltwater. Their innocence was refreshing.

A five year old told me to give him the hardest fish because he was strong but would release his catch and told me of his upcoming plans when the fluke season opens, a 15 year told me he loves getting out and fishing in Florida and it just got better as the day went on. No kid left without a good word.

Granted this is preaching to the choir as for every kid their was a Mom, Dad, Grandparent, Aunt, Uncle, significant other, big brother or sister etc joyously taking video of the small ones being pulled from the fighting chair or the older ones kicking it on the fish.

So as we get all wrapped up in the regulations, fishing groups and policy please remember that we are not just doing it for ourselves but the next generations. Find a kid and TAKE them fishing. Support and get involved with the group of your choice as our pastime becomes their pastime and it will all be good to pay it forward to the next stewards of the seas, rivers, sunrises, sunsets.

Just sayin