IGFA California Representatives Support Youth Fishing Programs

Introduction to Sycamore Jr. High's Fishing Program

Over a year ago, Howard Hada from Izorline’s Pro Team introduced Anaheim Union High School District STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) teacher Shawn McBride to Sally Kurz, IGFA Representative for Southern California, during the Long Beach Bart Hall Tackle Show. McBride detailed the youth fishing program he co-founded at Sycamore Jr. High School in Anaheim, CA, with science teacher Bill Cavanagh. Despite the school receiving a George H.W. Bush Vamos A Pescar Education Grant in 2022, they lacked funding in 2023 for an ocean fishing trip.

 

IGFA's Involvement and Support

Recognizing the need, Sally Kurz, who has been involved with IGFA’s Southern California Youth Education Program for many years, arranged a trip aboard Dana Wharf’s sportfishing boat Clemente. Sponsored by Basin Marine and Dana Wharf, the trip included pre-boarding instructions on knot tying, fish identification, and ethical fishing practices. Every student caught a fish and went home with a rod, reel, tackle box, t-shirt, hat, fishing towel, and knot tying kit.

Joining Hubbs-Seaworld Research Institute’s Program

Following the successful trip, Kurz introduced McBride and Cavanagh to the Hubbs-Seaworld Research Institute’s Seabass in the Classroom Program. This STEM initiative involves over 1,000 students across 11 Southern California schools in aquaculture activities. Students grow, feed, monitor, and release white seabass into the ocean, gaining knowledge about sustainable food sources and reducing dependence on imported seafood.

McBride and Cavanagh secured district funding for a specialized classroom fish tank, which arrived in late March. On April 13, the white seabass arrived from the hatchery, greeted by the Mayor of Anaheim, school district officials, students, and community members. Each fish was measured, weighed, and received an electronic cheek tag before being transferred to the grow tank.

On May 20, students, Hubbs staff, teachers, Dana Point Mayor, and community members gathered at Dana Wharf to release the white seabass into the ocean from the sportfishing boat Clemente. Students carefully transferred each fish into the release container, ensuring their electronic tags were functioning properly.

Comprehensive Youth Education Program

Sycamore’s fishing program integrates various aspects of IGFA’s youth education, including enrolling students in IGFA’s Intro to Fishing online course. The online course supplements many in-person education lessons throughout the school year and various field trips taking these students to explore both fresh and saltwater ecosystems.

In December, 50 students and parents visited California’s Bolsa Chica Wetlands. They met with a wetland volunteer to understand the importance of wetlands in supporting local fish and wildlife. The group picked up trash along trails and learned about community stewardship in protecting sensitive habitats.

In February, students were introduced to freshwater fishing at Irvine Lake, guided by IGFA members from local angling clubs. They learned different techniques and the best baits and lures for freshwater fishing compared to their previous saltwater experiences.

In March, students, teachers, and staff visited the Hubbs-Seaworld Research Institute’s Carlsbad hatchery. They observed white seabass at various life stages and learned about inducing spawning through controlled environments. They also discovered the roles of sea cucumbers, sea urchins, and seaweed in aquaculture.

On April 27, students embarked on their second ocean fishing trip, once again supported by IGFA volunteers. Many students showcased improved skills and confidence, catching fish with minimal assistance.

The Future of Recreational Fishing

Youth programs like Sycamore’s are vital for the future of recreational fishing, made possible through donations, IGFA Representatives, volunteers, sponsors, partnerships, and grant opportunities.

For more information on supporting IGFA’s youth fishing programs, please visit https://igfa.org/education/.