Press Release

"Today's families are busier than ever ," said Bruce Matthews, President and CEO of the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF). "We hope people will turn away from their computers, turn off their televisions and rediscover each other through boating and fishing together. It's hard not to relax when you are on the water."

Fishing and boating provide a positive experience that the entire family can enjoy together.

• Numerous studies have shown that being with family and friends, relaxing, and being outdoors and close to nature are the primary reasons people boat and fish.
• Many Americans believe that outdoor recreation strengthens the family as a unit and the children as individuals.
• Studies also show that people who participate frequently in outdoor recreation are more satisfied with life overall.

There is no better time to learn more about recreational fishing and boating and experience these benefits first hand than during National Fishing and Boating Week.

Events are planned for families, children and seniors, and include fishing and boating festivals, educational events, boating demonstrations and many other hands-on activities for participants of all ages. From knot tying and boating safety, to casting and properly releasing your catch, National Fishing and Boating Week Events will provide a fun, exciting, and enriching experience for the entire family.

For a listing of events taking place during National Fishing and Boating Week and throughout the year, visit WaterWorksWonders.org. Visitors will find a complete listing of events near their homes or vacation destination. They can also find dates of state sponsored free fishing days (no fishing license required) offered throughout the country. Most states sponsor free fishing days during National Fishing and Boating Week.

In addition to being a great way to reconnect, many Americans see participation in outdoor recreation as one of the main reasons to protect the environment. Nearly nine in ten Americans say outdoor recreation benefits the environment because it gives people a reason to care about natural resources.

National Fishing and Boating Week is a key component of the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation's national awareness campaign, Water Works Wonders(tm). The initiative was recently nominated for a 2002 Fatherhood Award by the National Fatherhood Initiative (NFI), the premier fatherhood renewal organization in the country. The Fatherhood Awards are presented annually to men, women, and organizations who make a substantial contribution to strengthening involved, committed, and responsible fatherhood.

"Fishing and boating are favorite American traditions that promote family values and cohesiveness, as well as provide wholesome recreational outdoor activities," said Matthews. "As a component of the Water Works Wonders(tm) campaign, National Fishing and Boating Week is designed to encourage angler and boater participation by providing an opportunity to try, to learn, and to discover for themselves that boating and fishing are unmatched leisure activities for true connection with family, friends and the natural environment."