“Creating New Anglers” through Future Angler Foundation Partnerships

In 2012, Pat Neu, National Professional Angler Association (NPAA) Executive Director along with Robert Blosser acting NPAA PR, and Greg Karch, Certified Angler Instructor and acting NPAA youth event committee chair, founded the Future Angler Foundation (FAF).  FAF is a 501(c) (3) non-profit membership organization dedicated to grow the sport of recreational fishing through education and outreach. The foundation’s mission supports the efforts of individuals and organizations willing to share their passion for the sport of fishing with people of all ages.   In the first four years of its existence, the FAF and over 450 NPAA members have hosted and supported 362 events reaching nearly 37,500 youth and nearly 24,000 adults.

Partnerships with agencies such as Great Lakes Sea Grant Network and USDA Forest Service as well as other non-profits including Wildlife Forever and Trout Unlimited help contribute to sustaining natural resources including preventing the spread of aquatic invasives.  Wildlife Forever provides FAF with Fish On!™, a comprehensive on-line aquatic lesson plan and CD Rom, written for educators teaching grades K-12.  A Species Identification Section includes an illustrated profile of each official state-fish.  State-Fish Art culminates in a national art contest for children who participate in the Fish On! Lesson.