Contacts: Mike Fergus              FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
          Marty Golden             July 13, 1998

A new educational video entitled "Fish for Tomorrow" has taken top honors at a gathering of writers in Redding, Calif. Produced in 1997 in part with funds from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Marine Fisheries Service, the 27-minute video was awarded first place in both "Outdoor Ethics" and "Take Pride in America" broadcast categories at the Outdoor Writers Association of America's annual conference, June 15, 1998.

Competing with 1600 other entries, the video was scripted and narrated by outdoor writer and sportfishing personality Charlie Davis. In the video, Charlie provides insights from his 50 years of sportfishing experience, highlighting the important role that recreational anglers play in conserving marine fish resources for future generations. The video has already been shown on a number of city cable stations, sportfishing landings, boats, and tackle shops.

"I have always worked to build ocean angling as a respectable sport," said Davis. "While my other publications reached thousands of anglers, this video is likely to be viewed by millions."

The project was largely funded by NOAA's Fisheries Service through its Saltonstall-Kennedy Grant Program, which funds research and development activities related to commercial and recreational marine fisheries. The California Department of Fish and Game, Sportfishing Association of California, Stephen Birch Aquarium- Museum, Catalina Express, and Sevenstrand Tackle Company also assisted in the project with technical support, services or funds.

The video includes proper catch-and-release methods, tips on fish identification using graphics and photographs, useful suggestions on fishing tackle and techniques, and even recommendations for proper fish care and storage to ensure a good taste when cooked.

"I am particularly proud of this project because it really does an excellent job introducing new anglers to the sport, giving tips for seasoned anglers, and promoting marine conservation, all at the same time," said Marty Golden, the Fisheries Service's Pacific coast coordinator for recreational fisheries.

Filmed and produced by Lance Milbrand, of Milbrand Cinema, Solana Beach, Calif., the video was designed to meet the high standards required by commercial broadcasting stations and networks.