Category: Blog

‘Greatest of all time’ Z-Man^® Scented Jerk ShadZ™ adds a refined 3.5” version

A cool half million and a shelf full of trophy shiny bass is not a bad haul for a single unassuming soft lure. “Over the last six or seven years, the 4-inch Scented Jerk ShadZ has produced some great tournament wins, from 150 boat races around my home waters in Ontario to the Tennessee River,” notes Z-Man pro Jeff “ Gussy Gustafson, who sailed each of his 2023 Bassmaster Classic winning basses with the same exceptional soft lure. “It’s crazy to consider that I’ve now made over half a million dollars on Jerk ShadZ alone.”

But overshadowed by Gussy’s “greatest bait ever” chatter, whispers of a little secret have gradually leaked out. “During the 2023 Classic, when the biting got tough, I reduced the size to a slightly shorter bait to give the bass a smaller profile, less than 4 inches,” he divulged. “Over the years, this modded Jerk ShadZ has fooled a lot of loudmouth critics and certainly helped me secure victory in the Classic. Actually, anytime the conditions get tough, a reduced bait can make a world of difference.”

So when Z-Man recently put a new 3.5-inch Scented Jerk ShadZ in Gussy’s hands, he was understandably excited.

“Really happy to add the new fry-sized Jerk ShadZ to my bag of tricks,” he admitted. “Many times, a small adjustment in bait size can cause a large increase in bites. During cold fronts or heavy fishing pressure, just a small adjustment can go a long way. Sometimes bass that are hesitant to bite into a larger offering will completely inhale a slightly smaller bait. It’s like changing focus from a year class of baitfish to a smaller or younger one; it works because it is a better match for the predominantly natural forage.

“I should also mention that walleye really like a bit smaller bait. Mounted on a jighead, the new Jerk ShadZ will be a natural visual producer, wherever you cast it.”

On the surface, a half inch haircut may not seem significant. But shrink and rescale the entire head, torso, and tail proportionately and you’re immediately throwing out a beautiful little baitball snack. Decidedly smaller than its 4-inch brethren, the new 3.5-inch Jerk ShadZ appeals to predators focused on young shad, oysters, smelt, and other minnow species.

An optimal match for interactive fishing with live sonar, Gussy believes the newer, more subtle Jerk ShadZ will see extended playtime and an increasing role in the upcoming season, from the vertical “finesse” on a jighead to the dropshot rig for working without weeding or throwing. springs with a 2/0 weedless hook.

For saltwater anglers following the trend toward Ned-rig sized inshore baits, the 3.5” Jerk ShadZ offers an intriguing offering. “Particularly in the spring, or after cold fronts, the new, small-sized Jerk ShadZ offers a bite-sized snack to fool redfish, hard bass and selective trout,” notes Capt CA Richardson of Z-Man pro and FlatsClass TV. “Set it Weedless or Texposed on a ChinlockZ SWS™ 2/0 hook or a free-swing Texas Eye™ Finesse Jighead for two different looks and actions.

“With the ChinlockZ, you get a nice horizontal drop and then a cool sub-surface walking action when you move it and let go,” Richardson explains. “It also works great for dock jumping for snook. For a smaller smooth jerkbait, the 3.5-inch Jerk ShadZ just has some killer moves, including a tail that never stops kicking and shaking, even at rest.”

To celebrate its maiden dive, the 3.5-inch Z-Man Jerk ShadZ will sport two stunning new color patterns to match the forage (also available on the 4-inch and 5-inch Jerk ShadZ). one of Gustafson’s all-time favorite patterns, Gussy Glitter Blue hums with a subtle shimmer and shine. “For smallmouth, largemouth, and spotted bass almost everywhere I’ve fished, this is a superlative color,” she reveals. “The Jerk ShadZ’ ElaZtech® composition really adds shine to this pattern. He is just one of those fishermen that gives me confidence. Also in lightly tinted or tannic colored water, Glimmer Blue emits a pleasant underwater glow that is constantly eaten.”

Another dazzling, electric shad is a proven pattern making its debut as an ElaZtech bait. “This is a color that has proven itself on many of the best swimbaits,” says Gussy. “It’s a great natural addition to the family, one of nearly 40 colors of Jerk ShadZ bait.”

A smooth and lively yet inconceivably durable jerkbait, the new 3.5-inch Jerk ShadZ adds a small baitfish profile to the ever-popular ElaZtech series, which currently consists of 4-, 5-, and 7-inch sizes. Molded with a high action split tail and belly hook slot for easy weedless rigging and solid hooks. Packed with two layers of powerful aroma and flavor, the 3.5-inch Jerk ShadZ is infused with salt and marinated with a 100% natural Pro-Cure Super Gel attractant. Scheduled for release in October, the Scented Jerk ShadZ is made in the USA. For more information, visit www.zmanfishing.com.

“Z-Man’s Jerk ShadZ has rewarded me with a lot of money in tournaments. Without a doubt, he will go down as my personal best bait of all time.”

About Z-Man Fishing Products: A dynamic company based in Charleston, South Carolina, Z-Man Fishing Products has been fusing cutting-edge fishing tackle with technology for nearly three decades. Z-Man has long been one of the industry’s largest suppliers of silicone skirt material used in jigs, spinnerbaits, and other lures. Creator of the original ChatterBait®, Z-Man is also the renowned innovator of 10X Tough ElaZtech® soft baits, among the most sought-after baits in freshwater and saltwater. Z-Man is one of the fastest growing lure brands in the world.

Silencer Central, America’s largest distributor of silencers, announces its continued sponsorship of YouTube phenomenon Hickok45. As a title sponsor of the family shooting channel, Silencer Central is dedicated to supporting the channel’s captivating videos of firearms, suppressors, and industry trends.

“Since our initial collaboration with Hickok45, we have witnessed tremendous growth in our shared mission to connect with our customer base and educate the firearms community,” said Brandon Maddox, CEO of Silencer Central. “Her channel has made an indelible impact on our industry, constantly forging meaningful connections with fans and shooting enthusiasts.”

For over a decade, Hickok45 and his son, John, have been producing videos tailored for the avid shooter. With an impressive subscriber base exceeding 7.3 million, this YouTube sensation consistently delivers top-notch content on a wide range of firearms. From muzzleloaders to state-of-the-art pistols and rifles, Hickok45 effectively showcases the exceptional quality of all products, including Silencer Central’s Banish line of silencers, and how the company has simplified the silencer shopping experience.

“We are excited to continue working together with Silencer Central,” said Hickok45. “Their exceptional products and shared vision never stop creating extraordinary experiences for our fans. From Maddox’s visits to our range to our unforgettable tour of Silencer Central HQ, this expanded partnership marks the start of another fantastic year for our channel.”

Maddox added, “We are delighted to expand this partnership and show the firearms industry how Silencer Central has revolutionized the silencer buying process.”

With a legacy of over 18 years, Silencer Central emerged as a pioneer offering customers a streamlined process to legally obtain firearm sound suppressors. Today, this industry-leading company plays a vital role in the firearms industry, tirelessly advocating for silencer owners across the country.

For more information, visit SilencerCentral.com or call 888-781-8778.

About Silencer Central:

Silencer Central embarked on its illustrious journey in 2005 as South Dakota Silencer, an event-based business driven by the mission of reaching the underserved hunting and sport shooting market through a streamlined silencer ownership process. Evolving into the Dakota Silencer and ultimately renaming itself the Silencer Central in August 2020, the company expanded its streamlined process to all 42 states where mufflers are legal. Recognized on the 2022 Inc. 5000 list of Fastest Growing Companies, Silencer Central has made buying a silencer a breeze by managing the entire buying process for consumers. With services including a free NFA Gun Trust, interest-free payment options, and shipping direct to your front door upon approval, Silencer Central continues to lead the way.

BELLEVUE, WA – The Second Amendment Foundation said today that it welcomes the National Rifle Association’s request to join a federal lawsuit brought by SAF and its associates in a challenge to the new “arm bracing rule.” from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. ”

The NRA announced the effort Wednesday on its website, explaining that the move was to obtain injunctive relief for its members to prevent the ATF from enforcing its new rule, which totally reversed the agency’s previous position that gun clamps they did not convert pistols to short-barreled rifles. making them subject to regulation under the National Firearms Act of 1934. The case is known as SAF, et al. v. ATF et al. Alabama.

On May 31, U.S. District Judge Jane J. Boyle in the Northern District of Texas, Dallas Division, upheld the scope of a preliminary injunction she had issued in the case that applied not only to SAF, but also to its members. “The Court confirms that its Preliminary Injunction Order applies to both the Second Amendment Foundation, Inc. and its members.”

The NRA’s announcement confirmed that the organization “will go to court for preliminary, and ultimately permanent, injunctive relief preventing Defendants from enforcing the attached ‘Factoring Criteria for Firearms with ‘Stabilizer Brakes’ ( the “Final Rule”) against law-abiding members of the NRA. .”

“We welcome the NRA’s motion to join our lawsuit,” said SAF Founder and Executive Vice President Alan M. Gottlieb. “If your motion is granted, and we certainly have no objection, it will mean that more American gun owners will enjoy the same protection that SAF members were afforded under Judge Boyle’s preliminary injunction. It makes sense that the NRA would want the same protection for its members.”

SAF is joined in the case by Rainier Arms, LLC and two private citizens, Samuel Walley and William Green. They are represented by attorney Chad Flores at Flores Law in Houston, Texas.

“We are in this for the long haul and we intend to win,” Gottlieb said. “SAF has become a recognized leader in Second Amendment litigation since our Supreme Court victory in 2010 in McDonald’s vs. the city of Chicago. We are serious about bringing back gun freedom one lawsuit at a time.”

SAF offers several different levels of membership which are available at https://www.saf.org/join-saf/. Annual membership is $15, five-year membership is $50, and lifetime membership is $150. Membership is effective from the date of receipt.

If you have questions about membership, please contact [email protected].

The Second Amendment Foundation (www.saf.org) is the nation’s oldest and largest tax-exempt legal action, research, publishing, and education group focusing on the constitutional right and inheritance to own and own guns. fire privately. Founded in 1974, the Foundation has grown to more than 720,000 members and supporters and runs many programs designed to better inform the public about the consequences of gun control.

Father’s Day is always a special time when people across the United States connect with their fathers, mentors, and father figures in their lives. Fishing and fathers always seem to go hand in hand, and Huk aims to highlight that connection with this opportunity on Father’s Day. This year, Huk wants to make this day even more special by entering for a chance to win a $500 gift card worth of Huk gear. Five selected winners can make this Father’s Day truly unforgettable and bring home all the fishing gear dad could ever want!

To enter, head over to hukgear.com to nominate your parent or mentor for a chance to win a $500 Huk Gift Card. Be sure to follow Huk’s social pages on Instagram, FB, etc. to get updates. Feel free to share memories and character traits about your mentor or father figure to truly commemorate them before Father’s Day. With this special occasion also falling on National Fishing Day, Huk aims to give everyone the chance to relive and cherish fishing memories with their mentors and father figures.

Huk truly believes in the power of fatherhood in fishing. Recent Bassmaster Elite winner Brock Mosley is very open about his strong passion for being a father and for fishing. “I spent a lot of time fishing as a kid, most days…” he said. “Being a father also made me appreciate Father’s Day even more. I understand the importance of being a father and being a role model for my two daughters.”

Huk encourages all anglers to step up to their father or father figure and join Huk in this national celebration of those who taught valuable life skills like patience, hard work, integrity, discipline and how to tie a lure. Fishing is a family tradition shared from generation to generation, so there’s no better way to celebrate Father’s Day than by gearing up for a weekend of fishing. This year, Huk has dads covered!

Marolina Outdoor Inc. was founded to provide a deeply rooted product experience across all outdoor categories. Our innovative designs and technology-focused products create the foundation for our authentic outdoor apparel. Huk clothing represents a fresh take on and a unique understanding of the needs of fishing, offering functional styles that appeal to anglers of all ages. NOMAD is motivated to provide quality clothing so hunters can maximize their hunting experiences and provide sustenance regardless of the size of the game or where their activities take them.

For more information please visit
WWW.HUKGEAR.COM

One bike to rule them all. Power when you want it, rating when you need it.

EAGLE, Col. — QuietKat Electric Bikes, the leader in off-road electric bikes and a brand of Vista Outdoor Inc. (NYSE: VSTO), is proud to announce the launch of its Variable Power Output (VPO™) technology. This new feature gives riders the ability to customize power output parameters based on the trails or areas they choose to ride. This option extends the range of QuietKat e-bikes and allows riders to adjust the output to comply with applicable jurisdictional regulations.

“We are excited to introduce VPO to our customers,” said QuietKat President and Co-Founder Jake Roach. “This technology is truly a first for the market, not only for the end user but for the industry as a whole. With VPO, QuietKat customers can now access more trails, paths, and other areas that have different egress requirements for eBike use. This technology allows us to offer more riding options with a single eBike.”

The QuietKat VPO-enabled eBike adheres to the three-class system, recognized in more than 40 states and standardized by People for Bikes, the trade association for the electric bicycle and bicycle industry. In order to modernize electric bike law in the United States, People For Bikes devised a three-class system to classify electric bikes and regulate them accordingly based on their maximum assisted speed.

Every QuietKat VPO enabled eBike ships as Class 2 and allows the rider to easily toggle between Class 1, 2, 3 and unlimited.

“E-Bike rules are inconsistent across federal, state, and local jurisdictions. Often, there are competing rules within the same agency or administration area, challenging both passengers and administrators. The QuietKat VPO enabled eBike allows the rider to assess which class is approved and adjust accordingly,” said Roach. “QuietKat and our riders have a demonstrated commitment to stewardship and conservation. Our passengers care deeply about complying with local rules, and the VPO technology will make it easier for passengers to comply and continue their journey.”

Switching between ratings is simple and can be easily done with the display screen on the QuietKat eBike. The QuietKat electric bike must come to a complete stop to allow the user to safely shift; then it will immediately be set to the mode you have selected. It is up to the rider to ensure that the correct class has been chosen for the area in which he is riding.

VPO technology will be available on all mid-drive engine options, including APEX PRO, APEX SPORT, JEEP, RUBICON and IBEX. See the most up-to-date list of eBikes with VPO software along with more information on the exact description of each class by clicking here. More information about QuietKat’s new VPO software, including tutorials and images, can be found here.

QuietKat was founded in 2012 by twin brothers Jake and Justin Roach in Eagle, Colorado with the goal of helping people enjoy the outdoors more quietly than with traditional motorized methods. QuietKat is now part of the Vista Outdoor family of brands, which includes Goldtip, Primos, Simms, Fox, Federal Ammunition, Remington and more. QuietKat has earned a reputation as a reliable, heavy-duty electric bike built by hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, making them the most trusted electric bike brand in the country.

About QuietKat

Founded in 2013 in Eagle, Colo., QuietKat is a leader in off-road electric bikes for hunting, fishing, camping, and exploring the great outdoors. Built for all-season utility, QuietKat e-bikes and accessories are built to go further and explore more while carrying everything you need for your adventure. Riding a QuietKat electric bike has a low impact on the environment and high utility and adventure performance. QuietKat strives to enhance the outdoor experience by creating rugged, dependable products with solid construction, powerful electric motors, and high performance in the field. QuietKat stocks a wide range of electric bikes and accessories including bags, racks, trailers and everything you need for the outdoor lifestyle. For more information, visit www.QuietKat.com

Nampa, ID – AmmoSquared, the leading platform that promotes ammunition as a practical and tangible alternative asset, is pleased to announce the release of new user experience enhancements and advanced security features.

AmmoSquared has implemented updates to the wallet, dashboard, navigation, asset account section, and shipping section of its platform to provide a cleaner, more user-friendly experience. These enhancements allow customers to more easily navigate their account and monitor their ammunition assets. Major improvements have been made to make it easier to buy and trade ammo, including setting up a convenient auto-purchase. The wallet enhancements include features to make it easier to deposit funds into an account using ACH or credit cards. While shipping-related improvements make it even easier to ship ammunition assets on demand or automatically.

In addition to user experience improvements, AmmoSquared has implemented new security measures to protect customer accounts and financial information. Fraud prevention and detection measures have been integrated to ensure that customer data remains secure. AmmoSquared’s dedication to account security and fraud prevention gives customers peace of mind, knowing that their financial information and assets are well protected.

AmmoSquared is committed to simplifying ammunition purchasing, storage, and management, making it a viable alternative asset for pro-2A patriots of all walks of life.

These recent enhancements reaffirm AmmoSquared’s position as a pioneer in promoting ammunition as an alternative asset class. Existing and potential customers are encouraged to explore these upgrades and experience first-hand the benefits of the AmmoSquared platform. To learn more about AmmoSquared and its unique services, visit AmmoSquared.com today.

About AmmoSquared Inc.:

AmmoSquared is pioneering an online ammunition wallet or “bank account”, offering customers an innovative way to purchase and store ammunition while still meeting their daily shooting and hunting needs. With a wide variety of calibers available, the AmmoSquared platform provides an easy-to-use experience that allows people to diversify their physical ammunition assets.

Team Blaser’s Rachel Barringer hit 395 of 400 clays to win the Ladies Senior Overall (HOA) Champion at the Texas Skeet State Championships for the second year in a row. Barringer also won 12-Caliber Overall Champion, 12-Caliber Women’s Champion, and .410-Caliber Women’s Champion.

The event was held June 1-4, 2023 at the Greater Houston Sports Club in Houston, Texas. Barringer started the week with a 99/100 in 28 gauge, 98/100 in 20 gauge and finished strong with 100/100 in 12 gauge and 98/100 in .410 caliber.

“This was a big goal for me, and I am honored to win the title of HOA Women’s Skeet State Champion two years in a row,” said Barringer, Digital Manager, Blaser Group. “It’s great to have a gun that is reliable and comfortable to shoot hundreds of targets over a weekend. My F3 has never let me down and I look forward to many more milestones with it!”

Rachel’s twin sister and member of Team Blaser, Melissa Barringer, finished runner-up in HOA Ladies and Ladies 12-Gauge and third in 20-Gauge, 28-Gauge and Doubles, while her teammate Kaleigh Lawson won Champion Ladies 28-Gauge and Women’s 28-Gauge Champion. double.

Team Blaser Sergeant Cody, Jason Ward and John Barnes also shot well in the tournament.

“Rachel had another outstanding performance at this year’s Skeet State Championships and we are very happy for her,” said Jason Evans, CEO of Blaser Group USA. “Congratulations to Rachel and her teammates from Team Blaser for her great effort.”

About Blaser Group

The Blaser Group is the official US importer of the iconic German firearms brands Blaser, Mauser and JP Sauer; English gunsmith John Rigby & Co.; Minox Optics and Liemke Thermal Optics. Established in 2006, the San Antonio, Texas-based company works with distributors,

wholesalers and over 200 authorized Blaser Group dealers in every state in North America, and this number is continually growing. Today, Blaser Group’s industry-leading product portfolio includes combination bolt action rifles and over and over shotguns designed specifically for hunters and competitive shooters. Their custom shop offers exclusive engravings, design work and custom finishes for bespoke weapons. With recent innovations, Blaser Group has expanded its product portfolio into cutting-edge optics and accessory lines. For more information on the company and product lines, visit: www.blaser-group.com.

SLG2, Inc.®, the industry-leading event marketing company and includes the Shoot Like A Girl®, Safe LivinG™, Hunt Like A Girl™ and SLG2 Consulting brands, is pleased to announce the extension of its partnership for 5 years with Bass Pro Shops®. Dedicated to educating women and their families on the importance of firearms, community and family safety, SLG2, Inc. travels to Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s storefronts across the country, introducing guests to the sports of shooting and education on how to live safely.

“Through our partnership with Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s, we have been able to create a tremendous impact with community members across the country and the industry as a whole,” said Karen Butler, President and CEO of SLG2, Inc. “Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s customers and employees hold a very special place in our hearts. With hundreds of moving testimonials and countless lives changed, this ongoing partnership is critical to enhancing and maximizing Shoot Like A Girl’s mission.”

In 2022, the mobile range traveled more than 35,000 miles to Bass Pro Shops/Cabela locations and continues to provide women and their families with the resources to build unmatched confidence in their sport shooting skills in 2023. From new to seasoned shooters , SLG2, Inc Trailer Stops introduce guests to safe driving and shooting from various disciplines.

Shoot Like A Girl’s 15-Year Expansion Tour and Safe LivinG Tour mark an important milestone for the company, and thanks to partners like Bass Pro Shops, they are able to continue to expand the mission of educating others about the importance of safety the firearms. Those who visit the shooting range not only learn about responsible gun ownership, the benefits of firearms, and the positive influence that participation in shooting sports can have on their lives, but each guest leaves forever empowered. and confident in his new abilities.

To learn more about Shoot Like A Girl’s mission, partners, resources and events, visit ShootLikeAGirl.com and safeliving2.com.

About SLG2, Inc.

Founded in 2008, SLG2, Inc. is a marketing company that delivers results to its partner advertisers through interactive experiences and trusted market research. SLG2, Inc. currently has four brands: Shoot Like A Girl®, Safe LivinG™, Hunt Like A Girl™ and SLG2 Consulting.

Shoot Like A Girl is dedicated to empowering women and their families to participate in shooting sports through interactive experiences on its iconic mobile range of semi-trucks. The women and their families learn to shoot a pistol, rifle and bow in a safe and controlled environment.

Safe LivinG™ is dedicated to empowering women, men, families, and communities to live safely in their homes and neighborhoods using an experience-based introduction to a variety of safety measures.

Hunt Like A Girl is dedicated to empowering women through hunting adventures, partnering with Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Club to boost confidence and promote the outdoors. Hunt Like A Girl, along with partners like Beretta, also hosts industry hunts that allow guests to participate in hunts while creating marketing content.

SLG2 Consulting provides sound, data-driven advice to develop strategies for partners to take advantage of today’s market. The data is obtained by maximizing the experience, knowledge and feedback obtained from guests of Shoot Like A Girl, Safe LivinG and Hunt Like A Girl.

The Women’s Outdoor Media Association (WOMA), known for encouraging women in outdoor sports endeavors in shooting, archery, fishing and hunting, proudly announces a new WOMA logo and branding to coincide with its renewed commitment to promote their efforts through social and mass media. media.

“As WOMA continues to grow and evolve, we feel it is essential to maintain a cohesive brand identity that reflects our values ​​and mission,” said WOMA President Erica Chin. “Over the past decade, our dedicated group of women have enthusiastically promoted their shooting, hunting and fishing activities.”

Today, the WOMA organization has a growing membership of women from across the US who are passionate about promoting the outdoors they love and sharing their experiences through all available media. “Passing on the legacy of an outdoor lifestyle to the next generation of women is our responsibility,” Chin said. “The refreshed design and color scheme of our new brand, logo and website help us focus our energy on that vital task.”

According to Chin, WOMA Vice President Jessica Adanich, owner of DesignPod Tactical, boarded the project. “Their creativity and experience of hers made the whole process easy. Jessica listened to our input and created a design that perfectly embodies our mission. We selected royal blue as our new brand color because we believe it is strong, confident and patriotic,” Chin said.

WOMA hopes these updates will improve your ability to connect with new WOMA members and patrons. “Extending our efforts through networks and media is very important to the success of our mission. We look forward to many more exciting activities in our future,” Chin added.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a member or patron of The Women’s Outdoor Media Association (WOMA), or would like to participate in our annual fundraising event, She Never Quit, please email info@theWOMA. org for more information. details.

About the Women’s Outdoor Media Association

The Women’s Outdoor Media Association is dedicated to encouraging women in outdoor sports endeavors in shooting, archery, fishing, and hunting. Out of her passion to do more to foster community and women’s leadership in the outdoors, Deb Ferns founded The WOMA in 2009. WOMA brings visibility to the growing movement of women seeking outdoor adventure and helps them excel at through networking and media outreach.

With the expansion of WOMA’s Board of Directors, an annual training event called “She Never Gives Up” was added in 2014. The experience introduced the women to outdoor activities related to shooting, hunting, fishing and fishing. archery. Since then, She Never Quit has become a 501c3 charitable foundation and hosts an annual fundraising and training event: Funds raised through She Never Quit sponsorships support female veterans, first responders and their families.

To learn more about WOMA, visit thewoma.org. Follow on social media on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Spring Hill, Tennessee More than 250 youth had the opportunity to wet a line and fish at Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) Take Kids Fishing Day free community events held in four different Wisconsin cities over the weekend of fishing free from the state

To entice newcomers to try the sport, Wisconsin’s Free Fishing Weekend allows people to go fishing without having to purchase a license. In addition, Take Kids Fishing Day events, organized by local union volunteers through the US Work Boots on the Ground program, are designed to introduce youth to the sport of fishing and encourage interest in outdoor activities. Free, at no cost to parents or guardians. .

On Saturday, June 3, the South Central Wisconsin Building Trades Council (BTC), Western Wisconsin AFL-CIO, and Western Wisconsin Building Trades Council, along with the Greater West Central Area Labor Council, held fishing events in Madison, La Crosse, and Eau Claire. , respectively. Additionally, the South Central Wisconsin BTC hosted an event in Beloit on Sunday, June 4.

At Carson Park in Eau Claire, 20 budding anglers, mentored by 10 union volunteers from Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 434, Ironworkers Local 512, and IBEW Locals 14 and 955, spent a few hours learning how to bait hooks, cast lines, and catch park bluegills. small lake. Afterward, they and their families enjoyed a picnic lunch of hot dogs and grilled sausage.

Union volunteers have been organizing Take Kids Fishing Day events in Eau Claire for nine years, according to Greg Erickson, business agent for Plumbers Local 434 and organizer of the event. “It’s about getting kids outdoors and teaching them basic fishing skills that they can use for the rest of their lives,” he says.

In Madison, 75 youth participated in the fishing event at Vilas Park. “It was hot and sunny, but the cool breeze off the lake made it a perfect fishing day,” says Jaclyn Weitzel, executive director of BTC of South Central Wisconsin. “The kids caught a lot of fish, including a couple of them that caught some good largemouth bass.”

Throughout the entire process, from assembling the fishing tackle to training the young fishermen to preparing a picnic lunch for the participants and their families, 36 union volunteers donated their time to this community event, he adds.

The young La Crosse fishermen mentored 11 union volunteers from IAM Locals 21 and 1115, Plumbers and Steamfitters 434, IBEW 14, AFSCME 101 and American Federation of Teachers Local 4999.

All young anglers who participated in Take Kids Fishing Day events received a free rod and reel and a goody bag containing essential US items, along with a foundation of knowledge and skills they need to continue. fishing with his family. and friends.

In all, 68 union volunteers from 20 local unions and affiliate organizations throughout Wisconsin donated hours of their time to plan the events and train the young anglers.

“That’s a strong testament to our union members’ commitment to doing good and giving back to their communities,” says US Conservation Coordinator Cody Campbell. “These volunteers not only taught the kids in their neighborhoods how to fish, but also helped them to appreciate nature more and the importance of taking care of our natural resources.”

The Wisconsin events were part of a series of free, community-based Take Kids Fishing Day events organized through the US Work Boots on the Ground program with support from US national partners. Provost Umphrey Law Firm, Union Plus, and Humana, as well as partners UIG, ULLICO, Bank of Labor, AFL-CIO Investment Trust Corporation, and Buck Knives.

Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA): USA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to unions whose members hunt, fish, shoot, and volunteer their skills for conservation. America is uniting the union community through conservation to preserve North America’s outdoor heritage. For more information, visit www.unionsportsmen.org or connect on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Ground Work Boots (WBG): WBG is America’s flagship conservation program that brings together union members willing to volunteer their time and expertise for conservation projects that enhance and enhance public access to the outdoors, conserve wildlife habitat, they restore America’s parks and mentor youth in the great outdoors. The US Work Boots on the Ground program works closely with federal, state and local agencies and other conservation groups to provide the labor needed to complete critical projects that might otherwise go undone.