Press Releases

Anglers’ Legacy Program Reaches 200,000 Milestone
RBFF Program Continues to Have Positive Financial Impact on Industry and Conservation Efforts Nationwide

ALEXANDRIA, VA (February 25, 2010) – The Anglers’ Legacy program reached 200,000 Pledges, the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF) President and CEO Frank Peterson announced today. Anglers’ Legacy, a national mission from the award-winning Take Me Fishing™ campaign, asks outdoor enthusiasts to preserve the legacies of boating and fishing by introducing at least one newcomer to the sport. More than 300 program partners such as state fish and wildlife agencies, clubs and organizations, sports media and outdoor retailers and manufacturers have all contributed to the success of the program.

“The Anglers’ Legacy program continues to grow because of passionate anglers and boaters who are dedicated to the mission, and through RBFF’s outreach, we encourage our Ambassadors to continue sharing the sport,” said Peterson.

An RBFF survey conducted in October 2009 revealed that participants in the Anglers’ Legacy program introduce more newcomers to the sport and make a significantly larger economic impact on the boating and fishing industry than non-Ambassadors. The survey found that when Ambassadors introduce newcomers, they purchase an additional $168 in fishing tackle and equipment and $166 in boating supplies and accessories annually. They also purchase more than two fishing licenses which support critical fish and wildlife management efforts through the Sport Fish Restoration Program.

“Anglers’ Legacy is an important tool for our industry and our annual survey of Ambassadors helps quantify the impact,” added Peterson. “Each Pledge generates momentum in fishing license sales, fishing tackle and equipment sales, and boating supplies and accessories. At 200,000 strong, the program may have already generated $67 million for the boating and fishing industries and 460,000 new fishing licenses for states which contribute to conservation efforts.”

The latest Anglers’ Legacy program enhancements are new print public service announcements (PSAs) that contain dynamic and relevant new images and messaging. The new full page PSAs are available in three creative concepts, each with a separate theme; memories made with friends, passing down the legacy to new generations, and the importance of conservation and protecting our waterways. Visit RBFF.org to request a PSA.

About RBFF
RBFF is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to increase participation in recreational angling and boating, thereby protecting and restoring the nation’s aquatic natural resources. RBFF helps people discover, share and protect the legacy of boating and fishing through national outreach programs including the Take Me Fishing™ campaign and Anglers’ Legacy™.