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Frequently Asked Questions
 Why is the leader training for 4-H Sportfishing
required?
The
most common complaint from members and parents about 4-H is that the
project leader “never does anything”. Most are well intentioned but then for
one reason or another never follow through with their commitment. Many project leaders say they don’t
have the resource materials, or the knowledge, or the self-confidence to do
their job. Experience with the
Shooting Sports program shows that the right kind of training can lead to
success on a local level. Project
leaders if prepared are more likely to “do something” and do it
right. Mandatory training pays!
How is the Sportfishing program different from
previous 4-H Fishing projects?
The main difference is that this is a nationally
developed, guided, and supported program.
- Professionals,
both in fisheries and youth development, from throughout the United
States have worked together in designing the program.
- Previous
programs were state driven and here in Missouri no resources, formatted
specifically for a 4-H fishing program, were available. We now have quality materials
including leader lesson plans and member manuals (CCS).
- Of
course, the required leader training is a major difference from
previous 4-H fishing programs.
- Partners
and collaborations at the national level can assist in finding state
partners and collaborations.
What are the subject matter areas of the
Sportfishing program and does a volunteer have to be certified or trained
in one or all of the areas to meet the requirements?
There are four subject matter areas. These are:
- Angling
Skills
- Tackle
Craft
- Aquatic
Ecology
- People
and Fish (ethics, fisheries, and folkways)
At the leader workshops the volunteer will have a choice
of one of two tracks. They select
either: Angling Skills & Aquatic Ecology OR Tackle Craft & People
and Fish. So, they will receive training
in 2 of the 4 areas. One training
will meet the requirement. A
volunteer does not have to return for the other two subject matter
areas. They may if they wish, but it
is not required.
If a volunteer is not trained in all subject
areas, how can they teach all areas?
They would not be expected to teach in all areas. If they do, they will have only limited
resources. At the county level, we
encourage the development of local teams (as few as 2) of instructors that
would share responsibilities in teaching youth. For example: if a county (or club) sent 2
leaders to the workshop. One should
enroll in the Angling Skills & Aquatic Ecology track; the other should
enroll in the Tackle Craft and People & Fish track. Upon their return, they would work
together as a team and provide instruction in all of the subject matter
areas to local youth.
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What is the Missouri
4-H Fishing League?
Missouri 4-H is
developing an exciting fishing format based upon a Recreational Fishing
League developed in Manitoba. The fishing league may provide just the incentive
needed to stimulate interest.
Basically it will look like this:
Team Structure
Teams would consist of 4 - 7
youth and a minimum of 2 adult coaches (at least one trained).
Team Activity
One fishing session per week (2 - 3
hours) may be submitted to the Coordinator as their official entry in the
league standings. The best 6
sessions will count toward the official score.
Scoring
Fish caught will be measured
– not weighed – and listed by species. A “fish length conversion
table” based upon species will be used to determine the
official score. Bonus points will be awarded for things such as:
· All
team members attending and fishing
· All
team members catch at least one fish
· If 3
or more species are caught during the same session
· If 3
or more species are caught by any one team member
· If 6
or more species are caught by any team over the course of the
“season”
· Any
Master Angler Award fish caught (trophy size)
There will also be bonus
points awarded for non-fishing activities such as community service, media
relations, etc.
Do I have to be a
current 4-H member?
No, it is hoped that Sportfishing will attract new families and
youth into the 4-H program. This
program is open to current 4-H members and to youth not currently
enrolled. Perhaps a group of parents
and youth with similar interests will want to form Sportfishing Clubs. There are several options available for
participation. Contact your county extension office for specific information about joining.
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