Why a Youth Conservation and Fly Fishing Academy?
While some of the best stewards of our aquatic resources are anglers, the last decade has seen a decrease in the number of people, primarily youth, becoming involved in the sport of fishing. Fewer people fishing might well imply a smaller number of advocates and less political influence when it comes to environmental and conservation concerns. Recognizing the critical need for a new generation of educated, concerned, and dedicated stewards of our natural resources, delegates to the July 2000 Trout Unlimited National Convention adopted an initiative to promote youth natural resource stewardship education nationwide. In response to the initiative the Washington Council Trout Unlimited established the Northwest Youth Conservation and Fly Fishing Academy. The sport of fly fishing is an ideal vehicle for educating youth about stewardship and to ascertain a more positive future for our coldwater resources. It is an activity that can immerse one in nature and bring about a passion for the car
