“Research clearly shows that good, well-structured youth fishing programs lead to kids increasing their skills, fishing more, and building a greater sense of aquatic stewardship and outdoor ethics. So, not only do good youth fishing programs create better anglers, they create better citizens,” noted PFBC Executive Director Doug Austen.

The Commission’s Open House will be followed at 7 p.m. by a hearing before the House Game & Fisheries Committee. Lawmakers are considering legislation that would provide funding for expanded youth fishing programs. The legislation would expand fishing license requirements to Pennsylvania anglers aged 12-15, mirroring long-standing requirements for hunters in that same age range. It is estimated that a $5, all-inclusive fishing license for those anglers holds the potential to raise up to $2.1 million annually. The Fish and Boat Commission supports this concept and has requested legislation that would dedicate revenue from a junior fishing license to new and expanding youth programs and initiatives such as:

• Grants to clubs and organizations using best practices in youth programs.
• Training workshops to teach skills and best practices to youth leaders.
• Purchase of equipment and materials for youth angling education programs.
• Development of materials for youth club use and support for implementation.
• Special youth-oriented events.

Commission staff at the open house will also be on hand to answer other fishing and boating-related topics.

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