Angler Education: Instructor

Angler Education Instructors provide in-depth Angler Education programs in their communities or elsewhere, as outlined by Aquatic Resources Education Program staff. They may work closely with other Department of Natural Resources staff to tailor specific aspects of the programs they offer.

Certification Process

A certification process is available for prospective Angler Education Instructors. The process includes:

• active participation in an instructor training workshop.
• completion and signing of the volunteer application available at workshop.
• acceptance and adherence to the Angler Education Standards of Conduct.

Qualifications

Volunteer candidates should:

• be at least 18 years old.
• have an interest in aquatic resources and their well-being.
• possess a strong personal sense of outdoor ethics.
• enjoy working with people of all ages.
• have good communication and organizational skills.
• satisfactorily complete the certification process.
• hold a current fishing license when participating in any activity defined as fishing in the Wisconsin fishing regulations.

General fishing skills are helpful, but not required; a willingness to participate and learn is essential.

Duties

Once they have been certified, Angler Education Instructor volunteers are asked to:

• Ensure safety of program participants.
• Initiate and/or deliver a(n) Angler Education program(s) with clubs or youth groups or schools outlined in the instructor training workshop.
• Recruit assistants and participants.
• Handle and return loaner equipment and materials promptly and in good condition.
• Document and submit timely and accurate program records to the Angler Education office.
• Supervise and assist Fishing Coaches, Fishing Buddies and other volunteers involved with your program.

Time Commitment and Recertification Requirements

In addition to the initial training workshop, volunteers will offer at least one program within the first year of certification. Re-certification will automatically renew for instructors who provide a program at least once every two years, thereafter. Instructors inactive for two years must attend additional training to become re-certified.

Successful angler education instructors are eligible for lead instructor training and other training opportunities as they are developed and offered.

For more information on Wisconsin's Angler Education programs, please contact Theresa Stabo or at (608) 266-2272, Aquatic Resources Educator.