This past weekend, we had the incredible opportunity to host three Learn 2 Fish seminars at the Wisconsin Fishing Expo, and what an experience it was! From eager young anglers to adults looking to refine their skills, we saw firsthand how passionate people are about the sport of fishing.

A huge thank you to the Wisconsin Fishing Expo for providing us with a private room where we could engage with attendees on a deeper level after each seminar. These one-on-one and small group interactions allowed us to answer questions, share tips, and help set up new anglers for success on the water.

Of course, this wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our amazing sponsors. Wildlife Forever, Getting Families Fishing and Boating, and our other great sponsors and donors, helped ensure that each participant left not only with knowledge but also with the tools they need to get started—fishing combos, shirts, mini tackle boxes filled with tackle, and educational fishing books were provided to attendees. These resources make a huge difference in turning interest into action, helping families get out on the water with confidence.

One of the most rewarding moments of the weekend came from hearing feedback like this: “Me and my daughter attended both seminars on Saturday and were very appreciative of the info that was shared. Many thanks for what you are doing for the youth! Keep up the good work.” – Paul Soldner

This is exactly why we do what we do—fostering a love for fishing, conservation, and the great outdoors in the next generation.

A big shoutout to everyone who attended, supported, and helped make these seminars a success. The future of fishing is bright, and we’re grateful to be part of the journey!

This past Friday, Captain Greg, Jehan, and Eric kicked off Fishing Club at South Park Middle school in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.  Fishing Club will be held monthly, and club members will learn about the skills and equipment needed to begin fishing.  During the first session club members learned safety while fishing, how to use a spin cast and spinning fishing combo, live bait and how to identify over fifteen different freshwater fish.  Captain Greg asked club members what was so important about a muskie in the state of Wisconsin and one student said it’s are state fish!!  He was rewarded with Northland jigs and plastics!!   Fishing Club will continue with more education along with them rigging a fishing combo that they will utilize to go fishing and will keep!!  Do you think we had fun at Fishing Club!!!

On January 23rd, Learn 2 Fish With Us had the incredible opportunity to introduce 110 third-grade students at Freedom Elementary to the world of fishing! Over two afternoon sessions, these young anglers participated in our Fishing Basics seminar, designed to equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to start their fishing journey.

During the seminar, students learned essential fishing techniques, including how to handle equipment safely, cast accurately, and tie crucial knots like the Clinch and Palomar. We also covered live and artificial bait, fish identification, and the importance of protecting our waterways from aquatic invasive species. Through hands-on demonstrations and interactive learning, students gained confidence and enthusiasm for the sport—many eager to get out on the water as soon as possible!

This event was made even more special by the participation of six members of the Freedom High School Fishing Team. Their willingness to step up and mentor these younger students truly showcased the power of passing down outdoor traditions. It was a full-circle moment, as just last month, on December 11th, I had the privilege of presenting my Icing Panfish seminar to the high school team. Their engagement and eagerness to give back to the younger generation highlight the importance of mentorship in growing the sport.

A huge thank you to everyone who helped make this event possible! Seeing students light up as they learned new skills and shared their excitement for fishing reminds us why these educational opportunities matter. We look forward to hosting more events like this in the future—continuing to inspire young anglers and foster a lifelong love of fishing.  Thanks to Wildlife Forever and Getting Families Fishing And Boating each youth received a Invader Crusader T Shirt.

Captain Greg presented his Icing Panfish On The Bago System at Community Church Oshkosh on Thursday, January 16th.  Community Church Oshkosh had the perfect venue to host this seminar for ice fisherman and potential ice fisherman.   Attendee’s learned locations to catch panfish, why maps and keeping fishing logs our so important, equipment and tools to use while pan fishing, electronics and so much more.   Anglers were excited to pick the brain of Captain Greg, as many of the attendee’s follow him and Learn 2 Fish With Us on Facebook and they know he catches fish!! Thanks to our great sponsors we had ice fishing gear for door prize giveaways!!

Captain Greg of Learn 2 Fish With Us presented his Icing Panfish On Your Local Lakes to the North Fond du Lac High School Fishing Team on Wednesday, January 15th.  Students and coaches said the seminar was so informative on the skills and equipment needed to catch panfish, which is so important to them when fishing Wisconsin Interscholastic Fishing Association fishing tournaments.   They learned about skills and equipment that can make them a better ice fishing angler.  Many of the students plan on putting some the skills to test this weekend.  After the seminar, students and coaches had many questions to ask Captain Greg.   Thanks to our great sponsors we had ice fishing gear to give to the team!!

Captain Greg of Learn 2 Fish With Us presented his Icing Panfish On Your Local Lakes to the Appleton East High School Fishing Team on Thursday, January 9th.  Students and coaches said they learned so many tips and tricks to catch more fish while ice fishing.  Captain Greg reviewed what should be done prior to the ice even forming so you are set once the ice is safe.  Ice fishing combos, electronics and other equipment was talked about so they understood what might be best for each student.  After the equipment, students learned the locations to fish as the ice fishing season progresses and why.  Ice fishing safety was covered asking they think before they do should someone fall.  After the seminar, students and coaches had so many questions to ask Captain Greg.   Thanks to our great sponsors we had ice fishing gear to give to the team!!

This past Saturday, January 4th, 2025, at the annual National Professional Anglers Association (NPAA) Convention, Captain Greg, Learn 2 Fish With Us, our dedicated volunteers, and our incredible sponsors were honored with a prestigious award presented by Getting Families Fishing & Boating, Wildlife Forever, and the NPAA.

This recognition celebrates our shared commitment to introducing families and youth to the joys of fishing and fostering a love for the great outdoors. Over the years, Learn 2 Fish With Us has worked tirelessly to educate and inspire tens of thousands of young anglers and their families, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, equipment and confidence to enjoy fishing for a lifetime.

This award is not just a reflection of our efforts but also a testament to the unwavering support from our volunteers, sponsors, and everyone who believes in our mission. Together, we’ve created opportunities for families to connect with nature, learn valuable life skills, conservation, and build lasting memories.

Thank you to Getting Families Fishing & Boating, Wildlife Forever, and the NPAA for this incredible honor. And thank you to every volunteer, sponsor, and supporter who has stood by us over the years.

Let’s continue to make a difference together—one fishing clinic at a time!

Tight lines, The Learn 2 Fish With Us Team

On Sunday, December 15^th our very own Captain Greg presented his seminar Icing Panfish On Your Local Lakes to an early morning crowd.  It may have been early but attendees were excited to learn his secrets and tips.  Attendees learned; what to do before the ice forms, where to find panfish early and late season, fishing combos, live bait and plastics, tools to have in your ice fishing arsenal and so much more.  This was the second year Captain Greg presented ice fishing seminar at the Wisconsin Ice Fishing Expo and was excited to be in the Eskimo stage as Eskimo is one of his sponsors.