World leaders in getting angling into schools and universities, the US system is already creating tomorrow’s tournament winners and conservation champions.
“There’s been explosive growth in high school and college bass fishing tournaments,” said British angling writer Craig Buddo.
“Around 600 universities and 2,500 high schools now have organised fishing times, competing across three national tournament trails for five-figure scholarships, cash and prizes.”
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Boosted by healthy inter-college rivalries, the scheme kicked off in 1992 with a match between Indiana and Purdue Universities, since replicated across dozens of other institutions. The fact that angling has always been outside the authorities that represent athletics, basketball and other sports has been a huge plus, said stateside-based Craig.
“It means that the huge US fishing and outdoor industry has been free to offer cash prizes, sponsor teams and fund tournaments, with brands like Bass Pro Shops, Pure Fishing, Garmin and Toyota involved.”
The cream of student anglers can become bass professionals, while other sectors such as fly fishing offer a vehicle for further educational opportunities and conservation projects.
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“Dollar bills grab the headlines but angling clubs are a positive influence in multiple other ways,” added Craig.
“Many high school programmes require certain grades, and clubs at all levels have a civic mandate, whether it’s raising money for charity, cleaning up waterways, or taking at-risk youths fishing.”
READ MORE ON EFFORTS TO GET FISHING INTO MORE SCHOOLS IN THE UK IN THIS ARTICLE ON OUR MEMBER'S SITE.