COMMUNITY FISHING PROGRAM

Fishing is fun for kids of all ages.  The Community Fishing Program provides quality fishing opportunities for many that do not have such opportunities. Community Fishing Events provide a wonderful opportunity to bring families together to teach youngsters to fish. Other events are provided for disabled or for seniors.  Since June 1995, over 350 Community Fishing Events have been held in Alabama for 75,000 participants.  Upcoming events are listed at www.outdooralabama.com/fishing/freshwater/kids/kidsevents.cfm.

• Introduce youth to fishing.
• Provide a quality family experience.
• Provide accessible angling opportunities.
• Provide or enhance lasting fishing opportunities for anglers of all ages.

Program Highlights

Focus on youth. Today’s children are tomorrow’s anglers, therefore fishing events are oriented toward young anglers (15 years and under).  Other fishing events target disabled or senior anglers.

Division/Municipality Partnerships. Partnerships between the Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries and local governments are essential.  In these partnerships, the Division provides technical assistance and expertise, block-off nets, and fishing tackle to loan.  Local entities provide suitable sites for events (preferably public ponds or lakes) and support services (such as security and site maintenance).

Division/Citizen Partnerships. Partnerships with local volunteers - private citizens, local civic and business groups, and city employees - are also essential. Local volunteers often raise funds to stock fish and donate the manpower and materials necessary for success.

Local Planning/Central Support. Events will be planned and conducted locally by District Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries personnel in cooperation with local volunteers. The Statewide Coordinator will provide educational, promotional, and other materials.

Coordination. Personnel from all the Sections of the Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries are encouraged to initiate, plan, and conduct fishing events in their districts, with coordination through appropriate supervisory personnel.

Stocking. Supplemental stocking is desirable to enhance the fishing experience. After events are over, remaining fish are available for anglers of all ages to catch.

Funding. Outside funding, mainly for the purchase of fish, will be obtained through sponsorship and donations. Other materials, such as refreshments, will also be obtained through donations.

Sites. Ideal sites are ponds or lakes that: (1) are open to the public, (2) have adequate bank access, (3) have adequate parking facilities, and (4) have some way to limit access (fencing, for example).  However, many sites may be suitable without all of these characteristics.