About

Fishing Programs offer Scouts the opportunity to learn and enjoy fishing while developing outdoor skills and conservation awareness. These programs provide hands-on instruction and experiences tailored to different skill levels.

Key aspects of Scouting fishing programs include:

• Fishing Skills & Techniques – Casting, knot tying, bait selection, and fish identification
• Conservation & Ethics – Catch-and-release principles, habitat preservation, and responsible angling
• Merit Badge & Awards – Earning the Fishing, Fly-Fishing, or Fish & Wildlife Management merit badges
• Special Events & Opportunities – Scout fishing derbies, high-adventure fishing trips, and partnerships with local fisheries

These programs help Scouts build patience, appreciation for nature, and lifelong fishing skills while following Scouting’s commitment to ethical outdoor recreation.

Fishing Events

Join us for a fun-filled fishing events, where Scouts can learn fishing skills, practice casting, and reel in some great memories! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, our event offers hands-on instruction, catch-and-release fishing, and opportunities to work on merit badge requirements. Grab your fishing gear and get ready for a day of adventure by the water!

Training Courses

Certified Angling Instructor Course

The CAI Training courses are facilitated by a team of CAI Course Directors and their staff of Certified Angling Instructors.  All instructors maintain a focus on providing enhancements to your fishing program and serving our Scouts. Course is designed to train leaders to execute fishing programs and to learn how fishing enhances Council, District and Unit programs, supports current and potential Merit Badge counselors.  Perfect also for Cub Scout, Scouts BSA, and Venturing leaders and summer camp fishing instructors.

Angling Educator Course

Angling Educator is a four to five hour national training course taught by BSA Certified Angling Instructors. The purpose of the class is to prepare program leaders to teach BSA Fishing Basics to Scouts and Cubs. Teaching both fishing skills and how to plan and run fishing events for their unit, district, or Council. Angling Educators learn age-based and skills-appropriate fishing tools and techniques for simple cane pole and spin cast fishing. The course highlights best practices in both the classroom and in the field.

Complete Angler Recognition Youth Award

The Complete Angler recognition was established to honor well-rounded youth anglers. Scouts who have earned the Fishing, Fly-Fishing, and Fish and Wildlife Management merit badges can earn the award.

Earning the BSA Complete Angler Award could help you expand your fishing knowledge and experiences.  With the Complete Angler Award, you can become a mentor for younger Scouts, sharing your knowledge and helping others to enjoy a positive fishing experience.

To become eligible for the award, start by earning these three merit badges: Fishing, Fly-Fishing, and Fish and Wildlife Management. Then complete one or more of the following projects:

• Teach a Fishing or Fly Fishing merit badge skill to your troop, crew, or team as part of a unit program activity.
• Help instruct Cub Scouts on fishing skills or fishery management as part of a Cub Scout meeting or outing.
• Participate in a local fishing derby or tournament, either a Scouting or community event.
• Complete a conservation project that will benefit a local fishery.

For additional information, visit: http://blog.scoutingmagazine.org/2015/04/03/complete-angler-and-certified-angling-instructor/