How is the Sportfishing program different from previous 4-H Fishing projects?
The main difference is that this is a nationally developed, guided, and supported program. Professionals, both in fisheries and youth development, from throughout the United States have worked together in designing the program. Previous programs were state driven and here in Missouri no resources, formatted specifically for a 4-H fishing program, were available. We now have quality materials including leader lesson plans and member manuals (CCS). Of course, the required leader training is a major difference from previous 4-H fishing programs. Partners and collaborations at the national level can assist in finding state partners and collaborations. What are the subject matter areas of the Sportfishing program and does a volunteer have to be certified or trained in one or all of the areas to meet the requirements? There are four subject matter areas. These are: Angling Skills Tackle Craft Aquatic Ecology People and Fish (ethics, fisheries, and folkways) At the leader workshops the volunt
