Youth bluegill fishing clinic planned

A few years ago, wildlife agencies across the country experienced declines in fishing license sales.

With many state conservation departments (Idaho included) being funded entirely through license sales, the trend was alarming.

Idaho was determined to turn the decline in sales around. Looking into the trend, we surveyed people to learn why some were no longer fishing and others never started. Using that information, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) implemented a number of programs intended to encourage kids and adults to unplug from video games and other technology and get back outdoors.

Surveys indicated that some people didn't fish because they didn't know where to go. To address that issue, we published new guides to rivers and lakes around the state to show where good fishing can be found and where boat launches are located. The guides include maps on how to get to area waters and information on what facilities are available. Tables in the guides list what species of fish are present in each water.

The "Angler's Guide to the Gem State" and the "Idaho Fishing and Boating Access Guide" are both posted on the IDFG website and are available in hard copy at IDFG offices.

A number of people indicated they were busy with other activities and just didn't think about going fishing. We became partners with various organizations on websites that promote the outdoors, and added messages on our website that promote fishing and hunting activities. We have produced public service ads that promote fishing for television and billboards.

Our surveys showed that some people were not fishing because they felt they didn't fish enough to justify the cost of buying a license. IDFG increased the number of Free Fishing Day events held every June. In these events, licenses are not required. The intent is to remind people how much fun it is to catch a fish, and to let those who have never fished give it a try without buying a license.

We heard that occasional anglers found the regulations were complicated because they didn't fish much and were not familiar with the rules. We greatly simplified regulations and revamped the fishing rules publication to make it easier to follow. We chose several lakes in each region and designated them as "Family Fishing Waters" with simple and uniform regulations.

A major effort of IDFG to increase fishing license sales was to start a "Take Me Fishing" aquatic education program throughout the state. The goal was to introduce non-anglers to fishing; and, to bring other anglers back to the sport if they had stopped fishing for one reason or another. The Panhandle "Take Me Fishing" trailer is scheduled to be at 23 public events at area waters in May and June. Each trailer is full of fishing rods and reels for use by anyone who shows up. And when the event is in progress, everyone who signs up with us can fish without a license. For information on dates and locations, go tofishandgame.idaho.gov. The Panhandle trailer is also scheduled for numerous school field trips and scouting group events.

A few years ago, we began a partnership with the Panhandle Bass Anglers organization to create an annual youth bluegill fishing event. One is scheduled for June 2 on Hauser Lake. For this event, advance registration is required.

Youngsters aged 5 to 16 who are interested in learning how to catch fish should call IDFG at 769-1414 to register. A total of 60 spaces are available and they fill up quickly. There will be 30 spaces for the morning from 8 a.m. until noon, and 30 spaces in the afternoon beginning at 1 p.m. Participants and their guardians will be treated to a hamburger, hot dog and soda barbecue.

Hauser Lake is located south of Rathdrum in Kootenai County near the Washington state line.

Lucky participants will have the opportunity to spend a morning or afternoon on a tournament fishing boat learning how to catch bluegills. Mentors will be experienced anglers affiliated with the Panhandle Bass Anglers Club. They are volunteering their boats, time and expertise to the event. One parent/guardian must accompany young anglers on the lake.

Fishing equipment and bait will be available for use during the clinic, but those who own fishing tackle are encouraged to bring it. Mentors will be able to give participants tips on how to properly use the tackle they bring. The objectives are to teach young folks a lifelong hobby, instill an appreciation of aquatic resources, and provide a start to an inexpensive and fun family hobby.

Anyone needing special accommodations due to a disability should request accommodations when registering.

This will be a fun, free event with prizes for every participant. No fishing license is needed.

The programs IDFG has implemented have worked. Fishing license sales have rebounded and are now growing. In the process, we have learned how much fun these special events and "Take Me Fishing" trailers can be for both the public and for our IDFG staff and volunteers. We have no plans to stop the fun anytime soon. I hope to see you at an upcoming event or on a local water soon.

Phil Cooper is the wildlife conservation educator at the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.