Not only is the Fishing Friendzy Foundation introducing kids and their parents to ethical angling, it’s helping youth become better human beings and further their understanding of how their actions today will affect the future.
“That type of thinking can make huge waves throughout our society and make real change for the better,” said Mike Sklad, founder of the non-profit organization, pointing out that teaching a kid to fish is more than it seems.
“If we get kids hooked on fishing, they will grow up protecting what they love. That means being a lifelong conservationist,” he said. “Kids are the future. They will be the next CEOs, politicians, and leaders, so they will have the power to make changes to protect our natural environment and influence the next generations.”
Fishing Friendzy beginnings
Fishing Friendzy began 15 years ago as a travelling fishing exhibit. It operated in the US for a few years before moving to the CNE (Canadian National Exhibition), where it ran for seven years.
The interactive exhibit, which has now been seen by thousands, includes a live pond for practising catch and release, as well as a casting station.
The exhibit has focused on locales away from typical outdoors events and urban areas, usually attending fairs and festivals where families don’t expect to be introduced to fishing, Sklad explained.
It helps families that don’t have someone to pass angling know-how from one generation to another.
Fishing Friendzy has also grown to include other core programs. Prior to the pandemic, it started as a youth fishing league. It teaches the fundamentals as part of two-hour sessions held weekly over the course of a month. Each kid gets their own fishing package with a jersey, hat, polarized glasses, rod and reel, lures, tackle box, hooks, line, weights, photos, and a trophy. The program offers lessons, discussion, guest speakers, and plenty of fishing.
The league offers much-needed support, Sklad said. “Now we have structure to help create the next Jeff Gustafsons, Cooper Gallants, and of course the Johnston brothers. These are the Connor McDavids of the fishing world to our Canadian kids. We are the house league hockey system that gets kids started.”
Fishing Friendzy accomplishments
Sklad, a self-professed big kid who likes to make others happy, says the multi-level mentorship is his favourite part of Fishing Friendzy’s accomplishments to date.
“We planned on teaching kids about ethical angling, but we also have teenagers who participated in our leagues when they were younger who now volunteer as coaches to get their high school community hours,” he said. “They are amazing young adults that I love helping and mentoring at this pivotal time in their lives.”
Fishing Friendzy also offers SAFE (Sponsor A Fishing Experience), which allows under-privileged children, those with disabilities, and war veterans an opportunity to get out.
Businesses and individuals can sponsor these excursions.
Learn more at: fishingfriendzy.com
Originally published in Ontario OUT of DOORS’ Fishing Annual 2024
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