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Top 10 Activities for Saltwater Anglers This National Fishing and Boating Week

June 04, 2023

Here are some activities that can help everyone have a great National Fishing and Boating Week in 2023!

Celebrating a nice fish Celebrating a nice fish! Credit: National Park Trust.

Fun Fishing Activities to Try

1. Introduce someone new to fishing!

Take advantage of a “Fee-Free Fishing Day” around the country by introducing someone new to fishing. Remember: you can also collect a fishing badge when fishing in a national marine sanctuary or park!

2. Reduce marine debris.

Learn how to reduce marine debris and keep our marine environments clean and vibrant for the fish we love to chase.

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Man holds fish trap in water on boat
Responsible boaters and fishers can prevent marine debris and join efforts to clean up our Ocean and Great Lakes. Credit: Scott Martin/ Ocean Aid 360.

3. Recreate responsibly.

Ensure you, your family, and friends #RecreateResponsibly in, on, or around water.

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Recreational Fishing image

4. Catch and identify a new species of fish.

Learn how to catch and identify a new species of fish—maybe an Atlantic Highly Migratory species or West Coast Rockfish.

5. Go on an adventure in your own kitchen and try a new recipe.

Try a new recipe with your favorite catch. 

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Tasty Fish Sticks with Yogurt Dill Dip
Easy oven-fried fish sticks with yogurt dill dip. Credit: Seafood Nutrition Partnership.

6. Participate in a recreational fishing survey.

Help NOAA Fisheries better understand and manage our saltwater fisheries by participating in our recreational fishing surveys.

7. If you are not keeping your catch, release it.

Release it in the best way possible to ensure the maximum chance of survival. Learn how descending devices are helping to return fish down to the deep in the Gulf of Mexico!

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A fish is led underwater with a device attached to its mouth to help guide it back to depth.
Descending devices help fish overcome buoyancy and symptoms of barotrauma by releasing them at depth. Credit: Return 'Em Right

8. Restore fish habitat.

Help restore fish habitat by getting involved with one of many projects around the country.

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9. Check vessel safety.

Double check that you and your vessel will be operating safely on the water to kick off the summer season. 

10. Hit the water with friends and family!

If you don't have a boat, charter a boat or hop on a head boat to go out with your friends and family. You will want to make sure the for-hire fishing operation is legitimate.

And if you can't get out on the water this week, check out the Angler Academy for Kids for a bunch of fun indoor activities for the whole family!

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Recreational fishing boats on water.

Last updated by West Coast Regional Office on June 05, 2023

Recreational Fisheries