Safety First

Before the meeting:

1. Download and print a copy of Scouting America Safe Checklist for each Cub Scout. Review the example of using the SAFE Checklist for a fishing trip.
   Supervision
   • Adults should bait the hooks and remove fish from hooks. Watch the YouTube video Baiting A Hook With A Worm (duration 1 minute 50 seconds) and How to Remove the Hook From the Fish: Catch and Release (duration 1 minute 37 seconds.)
   • When not fishing, the pole should always be held upright to prevent poking another scout or adult.

   Assessment

   • Inspect the site that you will fish prior to the outing. Check for any areas that could pose a danger to the Cubs such as steep banks, rocks, etc.

   Fitness and Skill

   • Demonstrate how to cast a fixed-line cane pole or telescoping pole by raising the tip of the pole and allowing the line and bait to swing forward into the water, or practice using a casting game such as Backyard Bass or Big Lunker. Avoid back- or side-casting with a fixed-line pole. Watch this YouTube video Into Fishing with Cane Poles (duration 26 minutes.)
   • Have the scout yell “Fish On!” and clear the immediate area as the scout is bringing in the fish.
   • When caught, fish should be brought in by just lifting the tip of the pole upright slowly and then securing the fish.

   Equipment and Environment

   • Smaller Cub Scouts should use simple gear, such as cane poles or telescoping crappie poles.
   • Have a backup plan such as Backyard Bass, or another casting game ready in case the fish are not biting.
   • Fish only on still waters (ponds or lakes). If fishing from a dock or wall, non-swimmers should wear a life jacket.
2. Set up meeting space for Cub Scouts to be able to write down their thoughts on the checklist.

During the meeting:

1. Lead a discussion with Cub Scouts and go over the points of Scouting America Safe Checklist and each point pertains to the upcoming fishing trip. Write answers on a flip chart, whiteboard, or chalkboard.
2. Supervision Youth are supervised by qualified and trustworthy adults who set the example for safety. Possible questions:
   • Who is the adult supervising the fishing trip?
   • Is the adult knowledgeable about fishing?
3. Assessment Activities are assessed for risks during planning. Leaders have reviewed applicable program guidance or standards and have verified the activity is not prohibited. Risk avoidance or mitigation is incorporated into the activity. 
   • Is the fishing locate safe?
   • What type of safety gear is needed?
4. Fitness and Skill Participants’ Annual Health and Medical Records are reviewed, and leaders have confirmed that prerequisite fitness and skill levels exist for participants to take part safely.
   • Does everyone have completed a Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Record handed in?
5. Equipment and Environment Safe and appropriately sized equipment, courses, camps, campsites, trails, or playing fields are used properly. Leaders periodically check gear use and the environment for changing conditions that could affect safety.
   • Does the fishing plan include reviewing fishing gear?