On Saturday, June 18, youth and their families gathered in Sunbury, Ohio, to enjoy a morning of fishing and learning. The free event, which was cosponsored by the Big Walnut Conservation Club and the Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation’s youth outreach, Trailblazer Adventure Program, provided all equipment and bait to participants.
Kids of all ages and backgrounds plied the water for catfish. For some, this was their first fishing experience – and a memorable one to boot, judging by the cheers and high-fives observed throughout the morning.
Volunteers from Big Walnut Conservation Club stock the reservoir with catfish, which is typically designated as a catch and release location. For this event, youth were allowed to take their catch home. Volunteers taught kids how to clean the fish and provided tips on meal preparation.
“Integrating Trailblazer events with our club membership program creates a win-win scenario,” said Sportsmen’s Alliance Vice President of Membership and Development, Sean Curran. “If sportsmen want to ensure hunting, fishing and trapping remain relevant in today’s society, we have to open new doors to the outdoor experience. What better way to accomplish this than through partnering with local sportsmen’s clubs in communities across the country.”
The event was attended by 58 youth. Special thanks to Big Walnut Conservation Club for their commitment to reducing barriers for the next generation of sportsmen.
About the Sportsmen’s Alliance: The Sportsmen’s Alliance protects and defends America’s wildlife conservation programs and the pursuits – hunting, fishing and trapping – that generate the money to pay for them. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation is responsible for public education, legal defense and research. Its mission is accomplished through several distinct programs coordinated to provide the most complete defense capability possible. Stay connected to Sportsmen’s Alliance: Online, Facebook, Twitter and Instagra