School Club

[Anantha Patel]

I have always had a halo of friends near me that like to fish. We would get our parents to drive to Lake Elkhorn or somewhere else in Howard County and fish for the whole day. Always loved it. But the idea of starting a small club of a manageable size hit me. We wouldn't go to do really hardcore tournaments up in Baltimore, but do local tournaments. I currently got 7 members from my middle school, and if I really advertise around the school, I could get more. As for experience, I am in a real fix. On one hand, I got me and another kid, who I say are quite experienced and been at the top of a few small derbies, a kid in the middle in the terms of experience, and a bunch of kids that can't even around getting a worm on the hook and make me do it. My teachers and peers say that I am really patient, but when it comes to idiots that tip over kayaks just because of a small spider really ticks me off. I am thinking of closing the gap for such people. I know some more experienced people in my school, but again, aren't clubs meant introduce people to fishing? If I don't invite those with no experience, how would the hobby grow? But again, I am not going to ruin it for those that are capable. Any advice?

[blongfishing]

I am the founder and former president of my middle school. I had the same problem, many students didnt know much about fishing as well as the patience problem. In the beginning I would often get angered by students not having the same knowledge as me. I was not a "people person" as some would say. As the club progressed on I became more patient with new anglers because we have to remember we were all at that place at some point. I also came into the club with my nose stuck up like I was the best. When it was all said and done I did turn out to be the best but I was learning from other anglers too. That was something I didnt expect to happen, I thought I would be constantly teaching. I have to say that through that club I started, I learned more than I ever had before. I think school affiliated clubs are great! I really encourage you to start one at your school through TBF (a division of FLW) or B.A.S.S. because they host great middle school and high school tournaments as well as a college program. Best of luck to you! 

[Anantha Patel]

Thanks! For now I am just bringing recruits fishing one on one and getting them excited by going to ponds overstocked with bluegill.

[Anantha Patel]

Since the school club was allowed by the school, I will be recruiting members before the school year. Since the whole school does Boy Scouts, and all Boy Scouts fish, I think I will be to the brim with recruitment. However, do any of you know the hierarchy in fishing clubs? Are their any other roles other than president and vice president.