LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (November 16, 2009). The Future Fisherman Foundation (F3) today announced the launch of a new program, Tournaments for Tomorrow, that will provide financial support for youth fishing programs such as the mentor-based Hooked on Fishing Not on Drugs program, the school-based Physh Ed angling and boating education program, and the Boys & Girls Clubs’ C.A.T.C.H. after-school fishing program.

“Since 1986, more than one million children in 50 states have been introduced to fishing, boating and conservation through their participation in these important national programs,” said F3 Executive Director Keith Sutton. “But sustaining these efforts requires hundreds of thousands of dollars each year to provide teacher training, program materials and staff support. It wouldn’t be possible without partners who provide financial assistance, including tournament fishing organizations such as Bass Pro Shops' Crappie Masters Tournament Trail that have raised thousands of dollars to help fund F3’s vital kids fishing programs. Throu gh their encouragement, we created the new Tournaments for Tomorrow program so tournament groups everywhere have a simple way for their members to make contributions as well. It’s a mutually beneficial arrangement—a win-win deal for the tournament organization, the Foundation, the fishing community and future generations.”

Each organization that enrolls agrees to raise funds by asking tournament participants to contribute an extra $5 to $10 per entry fee, or an amount of their choosing, to support F3 programs. Alternatively, the organization can “pass the hat” (or maybe pass a bait bucket!) at their opening events and ask for contributions. Members can give an amount that’s comfortable for them. And while individual donations may not be much more than the cost of a single fishing lure, some groups have raised hundreds of dollars at a single event, an important contribution that provides fishing experiences and education for dozens of children.

Upon enrollment in the program, the organization will be licensed to use the Future Fisherman Foundation "Proud Partner" logo in their publications and on their website to show their members support efforts to ensure the future of fishing. F3 also will send a special DVD the Tournaments for Tomorrow chairperson can use to show tournament participants and club members how their dollars will help. Each club will receive recognition for their participation in the Foundation newsletter and in the “Partners” section of the F3 website. Additionally, the Foundation will use their blog and Facebook pages to help publicize youth events held in conjunction with each organization’s tournaments.

“We’ve been contacted by dozens of tournament groups throughout the country that want to get involved with the Foundation’s youth outreach programs,” Sutton said. “Becoming part of our Tournaments for Tomorrow initiative is a great way they can show their support and let the world know they have the same mission we do—to provide quality fishing experiences for every child in America. Working together with the thousands of fishing clubs and competitive anglers around the country, we can make this dream a reality.”