SCOUTING FISHING
The BSA’s fishing program continues to grow. Counselors can find information below to help Scouts achieve the Fishing, Fly-Fishing, and Fish and Wildlife Management merit badges. There are also resources for Cub Scout leaders that assist in planning a fishing outing.
Complete Angler Recognition
The Complete Angler recognition was established by the BSA’s National Fishing Task Force to honor well-rounded youth anglers. Scouts who have earned the Fishing, Fly-Fishing, and Fish and Wildlife Management merit badges can earn the award.
Certified Angling Instructor Program
Learn more about the BSA’s Certified Angler Instructor program,, which trains leaders to execute fishing programs at the local council level. After completing the training make sure to update your training record with PAS Code: CS61
Find the CAI brochure here: BSA Fishing CAI Trifold Brochure
Hooked on Scouting
Troop Program Resource for Fishing
Interested in a fishing program for your troop? check out – Catch Me if You Can – the BSA program Feature for Scouts BSA troops. (NOTE: Clicking the link will open in a new page)
Fishing – A socially distant activity –
Click this link for some guidance for offering fishing programs during the pandemic. Scout Group Fishing and COVID (final)
Click this link for some guidance to offering a fishing event – Tips for Hosting a Fishing Event
Click this link for some tips on setting up a trade show type booth for a council or district University of Scouting or other event – Tradeshow Tips for CAI
Merit Badge Counselor Guides
BSA Beginner’s Fly Tying Handbook
Fish-and-Wildlife-Management-MB-Counselor-Guide
Fishing Merit Badge Counselor Guide
Fishing Merit Badge Presentation (PDF)
Fly-Fishing-Merit-Badge-Counselor-Guide
Cub Scout Fishing Modules
Module 1: Organizing an Outing
Module 2: Den and Pack Opportunities
Module 5: Selecting Proper Equipment
Module 6: Cub Scout Angler Education
Take Me Fishing’s Passport to Fishing & Boating Program Materials Available
Take Me Fishing™ has six hands-on stations to help teach youth the skills, techniques and information that novices need to begin boating and fishing in their communities through the Passport to Fishing & Boating program. Each station focuses on a key participation aspect and includes strong conservation messaging. Straightforward, effective, inexpensive and FUN, the Passport Program is designed to be:
1. Administered by expert or lay volunteers
2. Adjustable to highlight geography, activities and species unique to a particular area
3. Appealing to varying age and interest groups
4. Appropriate for mixed skill and education levels
5. Adaptable to diverse settings, whether landlocked or a the water’s edge
6. Accessible throughout the year
Learn more and request the materials here
Places to Go Boating and Fishing
The Places to Boat and Fish Map from Take Me Fishing™ can help you find places to boat and fish in your state, and what you might catch when you get there. This map and TakeMeFishing.org will help your unit and members know how and where to obtain licenses in your state if needed, and what amenities surround your selected body of water.
This feature has been provided through the Boy Scouts of America’s partnership with the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation. To learn more about how you can add this free resource to your site please email Rachel Auslander