Press Releases

Across the nation, communities are hosting hundreds of on-water events to celebrate National Fishing and Boating Week, June 3-11. Fishing derbies, regattas, educational events, boating demonstrations, festivals and many other hands-on activities will allow Americans to experience fun on the water with boating and fishing. 

“National Fishing and Boating Week is a great time for families to get together and plan a day on the water,” said Bruce Matthews, president, Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation. “The week was designed not only for kids of all ages, but for parents and grandparents as well. Many events offer firsthand instruction on everything from knot-tying and boating safety to casting and properly releasing a catch.”

For a listing of events taking place during National Fishing and Boating Week and throughout the year, visit takemefishing.org. Visitors will find a complete listing of events near their homes or vacation destination. They can also find dates of state-sponsored free fishing days (no fishing license required) offered throughout the country. Most states sponsor free fishing days during National Fishing and Boating Week.

National Fishing and Boating Week has grown each year, with more than 1,300 fishing and boating events held from coast-to-coast last year. With retailers, manufacturers and state agencies hosting events, this year’s fishing and boating celebration is expected to include more community events and draw more participants than ever before.

With additional events each year, families have more opportunities to experience activities that are growing in popularity.  According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, 2004 saw a 2 percent increase in the sale of fishing licenses. More than 50 million Americans participate in fishing and boating every year; that’s more than play golf and tennis combined.

Fishing and boating are not only fun, they’re good for the environment. In a survey conducted in 2005, RBFF found that anglers and boaters are generally more concerned about conservation and the environment than nonparticipants. In addition, 83 percent of state funding for managing and conserving aquatic resources comes from the sale of fishing licenses and excise taxes on fishing equipment and motorboat fuel.

About the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF)
RBFF (www.rbff.org) is a nonprofit organization established in 1998 to increase participation in recreational angling and boating, thereby increasing public awareness and appreciation of the need for protecting, conserving and restoring America’s aquatic natural resources. Recreational boating and fishing are America’s favorite sporting activities, with more than 50 million people participating every year – that’s more than play golf and tennis combined.

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