Become a Mentor

Fishing offers peace and tranquility for many experienced anglers, but newcomers to the sport often seek mentors to show them the ropes. Whether it is a neighbor, colleague, parent, child or grandchild, the goal of any mentor is to make the introduction or reintroduction to fishing as seamless as possible. Keep an eye out for free fishing opportunities in your state, as well. These are great days to get new anglers on the water without the investment of a fishing license.”

Helpful tips

Fun Things to Consider When Planning to Take a Friend Fishing

  • Pack the cooler with fun drinks like sparkling water and juices.
  • Get creative with your snacks. Make a “snackle box” with individual servings of snacks, such as candy, nuts, fruit or beef jerky.
  • Bring plenty of water and electrolytes for hot days on the water.
  • Look for free fishing days, events and demonstrations to get friends excited about going fishing.
  • Visit your local tackle shop to get up-to-date conditions, a lay of the land and ideas for planning a fun fishing adventure.
  • Pack a small bag of emergency first-aid items such as:
    • Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen
    • Bandages
    • Sunscreen
    • Towel
    • Blanket
    • Flashlight
    • Baby Wipes or roll of paper towels for easy clean up
    • Trash bag
  • Visit takemefishing.org/places-to-boat-and-fish/ to find places to fish nearby

Fishing participation fell in 2025 for the first time since 2021, and more than 19 million anglers left the sport between 2024-25. Since most state fisheries management agencies rely on fishing license sales and grants to fund conservation, fish stocking, public access and education programs, fishing participation is critical to the future health of our natural resources.

Additionally, fishing tackle manufacturers contribute up to 10% of ever item sold to conservation through the federal excise tax on fishing equipment (also known as the Dingell-Johnson Act). If we want to keep our waterways clean, our fisheries healthy, and access plentiful, then it is incumbent on all of us to help increase the number of individuals participating in this sport and slow the churn of anglers leaving year after year.

Helpful Links