Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - July/August 2023 - 35

which matches new adult anglers with mentors who guide
them through the whole process of starting out and catching
their first fish.
" We do a Learn to Fish for kids, too, in conjunction with
the PFBC. They provide the equipment, and we provide the
mentors, " said Rank. " We also started a rod lending program at
local libraries. "
Money can play a big role in whether someone can purchase
fishing gear. It can be hard to justify the initial expenditure on
something that you're not sure you'll want to continue doing.
" So, instead of checking out a book, you can check out a fishing
rod and go fishing, " said Rank, " and it can be a great way to
introduce them to the outdoors without them having to make
the financial investment right from the start. "
The BHA introduces new hunters and anglers to the
outdoors through their R3 program, which stands for
Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation. The program's goal
is to spur new, conservation-minded outdoorswomen and men
while also engaging with college students who already hunt
and fish.
Last year, the BHA piloted the PFBC's Adopt An Access
program, which provides volunteers the opportunity to help
keep Commission-owned fishing and boating access areas
clean and beautiful by conducting litter pick up. Program
volunteers are encouraged to visit these access areas and boat
launches frequently throughout the year, especially during
busy fishing and boating seasons. BHA has adopted PFBC
access areas on the Delaware River, Big Spring Creek, Penns
Creek, and many other areas, although the Adopt An Access
program offers opportunities statewide. Litter pick up at these
sites ensures they are appealing and inviting to all who wish to
access the water for years to come.
The BHA also conducts cleanup projects on other public
lands as well as habitat improvement projects.
They are a strong voice for hunters and anglers everywhere.
" The main component of what we do is advocacy, " said Rank.
" Whether it's on the state or federal level, we help get people
involved in the issues that matter most to ensure that future
generations will have access to the many public lands and
waters that we all love. "
It's never too early to get kids involved. Board Member
Samantha Lutz and her daughter cleaning up an access.
Cleaning up and maintaining access areas are a key
component of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers.
A camping and fishing outing sponsored by the organization. This
year's event will take place on Pine Creek.
On June 5, 2023, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
recognized Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BHA) during
the Boating Advisory Board meeting in Harrisburg for their
partnership in implementing the Commission's Adopt An Access
program. Nick Long accepted the award on BHA's behalf.
July/August 2023
35
photo-courtesy of BHA
photo-courtesy of BHA
photo-Adam Spangler
photo-courtesy of BHA
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - July/August 2023

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