On Monday, June 1, Bass Pro Shops announced the donation of more than 55,000 rods and reels to youth-focused nonprofit organizations across the United States and Canada. The action is part of its annual Gone Fishing initiative.
The donation marks a milestone of bringing the total number of rods and reels distributed through the program to more than 500,000 over the past decade. Company officials said the effort is intended to introduce more young people to fishing while promoting outdoor recreation and conservation.
The annual initiative was launched by Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris, who said the program reflects the company’s commitment to creating opportunities for children and families to spend time outdoors.
“The most special memories in life come from spending time in nature with the people you care about,” said Morris in a statement. “We want to help as many kids as possible discover the joy of fishing, and we’re excited to encourage families to get outside and take someone they love fishing this summer.”
The program officially begins June 11 with rod and reel donation events at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s locations throughout the U.S. During the events, local nonprofit organizations will receive fishing equipment while conservation partners and company representatives highlight the role fishing licenses play in supporting conservation efforts and outdoor recreation programs.
According to the company, the donated equipment is sourced through its annual Spring Classic Fishing Event, during which customers trade in gently used fishing gear. The gear is refurbished and redistributed to youth organizations to help introduce children to the sport.
The donation campaign will be followed by a series of free family fishing events scheduled for June 13–14 and June 20–21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Central Florida locations participating include Orlando, Dania Beach, Daytona Beach, Tampa, and St. Augustine.
It will feature catch-and-release fishing opportunities in stocked in-store ponds, educational activities, giveaways, and beginner fishing instruction.
Children who participate in the catch-and-release activities will receive complimentary photo downloads commemorating their first catches. Families will also have the opportunity to create fishing-themed crafts and learn basic fishing techniques from experienced Outfitters.
As part of this summer campaign, Bass Pro Shops is encouraging families to submit photos to the Johnny Morris Bass Pro Shops Kids’ Braggin’ Board, an online gallery highlighting young anglers and their experiences.
