Youth Education Report

This is the time to start looking for great fishing deals at upcoming boating and outdoor sport shows. Stop by the JCAA booth to learn what is new with the JCAA Fluke Tournament and ask about becoming a JCAA volunteer. Outdoor sport shows start in January and remember to support your local tackle dealer.

1. Arrive early - It’s always best to beat the crowds, you'll be able to see everything before others and have plenty of time to go back to a vendor to make a deal.
2. Wear comfortable shoes - I can't stress this enough, since you're likely to be on your feet for a good part of the day. Concrete floors are tough to walk and stand on without proper footwear. After working all week, you don’t want your dogs barking and ruining your day. If you are with your family make sure they are comfortable. Strollers for small children are a must and they also help carry your stuff.
3. Bring reusable shopping bags or a small cart - It’s always good idea to have reusable bags that can rest on your shoulder. Most merchants at the shows have small bags so bring a portable means to carry your purchases through the show.
4. Don't be afraid to ask for a seller's best price - Talk to the seller and get as much information as you can about the item. This is all part of the buying dance. Most of the time you can make your best deals at the end of the show. Make a reasonable offer and see if the seller will accept it.
5. And don't be afraid to walk away - If the price isn't right or a seller isn't being responsive, don't be afraid to walk away. Nine times out of 10, they'll say "I can do better!" And if they don't, move on and enjoy shopping for other stuff. Remember they are in business. When haggling, please be polite.
6. Pack a lunch - Eat healthy this will keep your energy up. Food courts and trucks usually offer fried food. If you're looking for an alternative to fried anything pack a lunch or look for healthy food choices at the show.
7. Most people forget to bring water - Stay hydrated and save another few dollars that can be spent on outdoor gear.
8. Stay in touch with vendors - If you find a vendor that carries a lot of items that you're interested in, grab their business card or contact information. If you ever regret walking away from that perfect find, you can reach out to them and it's likely that they'll be back at the show next year. Most vendors have websites but remember you will have shipping charges.
9. Ask dealers about their products - If you have no idea what you're buying, ask the vendor. Most of the time, vendors will be experts on what they're selling and can give you insight into their merchandise.
10. Learning Opportunities - Remember to stop at some of the organizations that can teach you about your sport. Many organization members have a lot of knowledge about boating, hunting, fishing, and the outdoors. Spend time talking at their booth, they will keep you well informed about your sport of choice and environmental issues.

There will be a NJ HOFNOD Team Leader gathering Saturday, February 27 at the Assunpink Wildlife Management Area (Jackson/Upper Freehold Twp.) from 9:30 to about 2:30. The goal of the gathering is to share/problem-solve and brainstorm on: the programs progress & priorities, success/challenges, promotional activities, purchasing issues, trips & statewide events, needs/wants, fundraising, and the like. All NJ HOFNOD Team Leaders are encouraged to attend

NJ HOFNOD will host an Adventure Aquarium in Camden, New Jersey on February 12-13, 2016. NJ HOFNOD is offering fun trips for youth that participate in the program. If you are a NJ HOFNOD Group Leader and would like to attend, please contact Liz Jackson before January 15, 2016 for details. NJDEP Division of Fish & Wildlife, Hooked on Fishing - Not on Drugs, 605 Pequest Road, Oxford, NJ 07683, 908-637-4125 x122. See link for more details.

We received a donation of assorted fishing items from Carolyn Fabian. Carolyn gave us an assortment of freshwater and saltwater fishing equipment to support youth fishing and veteran fishing programs. The equipment was distributed to NJBBA’s most recent youth based fishing activity being chaired by Paul Harris for students attending Toms River High Schools.

War veterans that attend Vietnam of America Chapter 12 Fishing Programs will also utilize some of the used fishing equipment.

We thank Carolyn for her kind donation. It will come in handy for our youth and veteran programs.

The Jersey Coast Anglers Association’s Youth Education Committee is asking JCAA member clubs/organizations for a listing of scheduled youth and family events that are going to be held by your club or organization during 2016.

The purpose of this request is to alert other fishing clubs and organizations that would like to participate in your youth and family event. The JCAA Newspaper is a way to get the word out about what’s happening in your club. Use this opportunity to inform others about events your fishing club/organization is doing to promote fishing.

The Jersey Coast Anglers Association’s Youth Education Committee will support your event with “Hook On Fishing Not On Drugs” materials. Please contact Greg Kucharewski with your listing of youth and family events and don’t forget the Sportsmen Shows and include your booth location, fishing club or organization that will attend. By providing this information you’re fishing club or organization can improve membership and increase consumer participation.