Wildlife Forever and Major League Fishing Launch New Partnership to Expand Getting Families Fishing and Boating Initiative™

Wildlife Forever today announced a new partnership with Major League Fishing (MLF) to significantly expand the reach and impact of the Getting Families Fishing and Boating Initiative, a national effort focused on connecting youth and families to fishing, boating and conservation.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) formalizing the partnership was signed at Bass Pro Shops Headquarters during the REDCREST 2026 championship event in Springfield, Missouri, marking a major step forward in uniting conservation education with professional angling and industry leadership.

Through this collaboration, MLF anglers will be eligible to receive product grants that include free fishing equipment and conservation education materials. These resources will be distributed through volunteer-led youth fishing clinics and family-oriented outdoor community events nationwide, helping remove barriers to participation while reinforcing stewardship of natural resources.

“This partnership represents a powerful alignment to increase angling participation while coordinating distribution of equipment and conservation education,” said Pat Conzemius, President and CEO of Wildlife Forever. “By working with Major League Fishing and its network of professional anglers, we will expand our ability to inspire the next generation of anglers while instilling the core values of conservation and responsible outdoor recreation.”

Getting Families Fishing and Boating Initiative has reached thousands of youths and families and builds upon the established network of the National Professional Anglers Association (NPAA). NPAA members have long been dedicated to mentoring new anglers, teaching angling basics, and best practices of invasive species prevention. With the added support and coordination of MLF, the program will reach more communities and provide greater access to hands-on outdoor experiences.

MLF anglers and industry sponsors, known for their influence both on and off the water, will play a critical role in delivering these programs, serving not only as ambassadors of the sport but also in a commitment to grow the Getting Families Fishing & Boating brand and nationwide program.

“This partnership allows our anglers and industry partners to give back and truly grow the sport in meaningful ways,” said Dave Washburn, Vice President of Operations for Major League Fishing. “By giving youth and families the equipment and skills to be successful anglers and good stewards of our waters, the collective effort will have compounding benefits for generations.”

Organizations interested in supporting Getting Families Fishing and Boating should contact info@WildlifeForever.org. For more information: wildlifeforever.org