Fishing derbies and bass clubs are major factors in introducing young people and their families to the sport
Three youth derbies were held over the Oct. 12 weekend, led by one of the oldest and largest kids’ fishing derbies in northern California, the California Striped Bass Association (CSBA) – West Delta Chapter’s ‘Hooked on Fishing – Not on Drugs or Gangs’ Derby, now in its 33rd year.
“We’ve been fighting for the conservation of striped bass for over 50 years, but we have always understood the importance of getting youth out on the water to share what we have been privileged to experience,” Roger Mammon, chairman of the CSBA Kid’s Derby said.
The national participation rate among children ages 6 to 12 has seen a notable increase in the past few years. In 2011, the participation rate was 23%, jumping to 29% percent in 2020. Even as pandemic restrictions began to lift and vaccines became more available, this rate remained higher than pre-pandemic levels at 28% in 2021. For ages 13-17, the participation rate has grown from 18% to 24% in the last decade, adding 1 million participants.