In the 2022 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation, by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, it reveals that almost 40 million people – age 16 and older – went fishing. Of those 40 million, 12.5 million were women, which is roughly 31 percent. This survey was conducted in 2022, with data released in 2023. The next survey will occur in 2027.
Meanwhile, in “Wide Open Spaces,” it reported, “More women than ever picked up a rod and reel in 2021, according to a study by the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF). The study, done in collaboration with the Outdoor Foundation, said that women now make up 37 percent of all anglers in the United States. This is the highest number on record for female participation in fishing, the report said.”
As we await new survey results, and are hopeful that the ranks of female anglers has grown even more, we are happy to offer names and links to several organizations in this country (and in Canada) that offer fishing trips for women that not only entertain, but also, educate.
Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing (The No Yelling School of Fishing)
http://ladiesletsgofishing.com/
“Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing!” is a weekend seminar series offering a complete fishing experience presented in a non-intimidating environment. Leading sportfishing and marine industry professionals teach classes and provide hands-on training in inshore, offshore, bottom and fly fishing techniques. Skill stations are offered and a fishing excursion is available, complete with fish fillet instructions.
Sisters on the Fly
https://www.sistersonthefly.com
Membership-based outdoor women’s organization that fly-fishes, and holds special destination trips: camping, sightseeing, hiking, Girls’ Night Out, antiquing, junkin’, dancing, cooking, horseback riding, fishing, kayaking, wine tasting, geocaching, community service, fundraising, Meet-Greet-&-Eat gatherings, creative outlets, cultural forays.
Casting for Recovery
http://castingforrecovery.org/
The mission of Casting for Recovery is to enhance the quality of life of women with breast cancer through a unique program that combines breast cancer education and peer support with the therapeutic sport of fly fishing. The retreats offer opportunities for women to find inspiration, discover renewed energy for life and experience healing connections with other women and nature. Casting for Recovery’s retreats are open to breast cancer survivors of all ages, in all stages of treatment and recovery, and are free to participants.
Wisconsin Women Fish
With more than 160 members from 5 states, this women’s fishing organization offers fishing outings year round. Fish from shore, kayak or boat. Members range in age from 25 to 79.
Women’s Pro Bass Tour (LBAA)
https://www.ladybassanglers.com
You may not be a pro bass angler, but you can learn from women who are, and get out to see them in action. Members receive a quarterly blog featuring tactics and outlooks from LBAA anglers, tips, and much more.
United Women on the Fly
United Women on the Fly (UWOTF) is an interactive community based website allowing anglers (specifically women) to connect with other groups, clubs and organizations throughout the world. Offers online fishing classes.
Becoming an Outdoors Woman
If you want to do a bit of fishing on the web, you might be able to find fishing events tailored for women through Becoming an Outdoors Woman, which includes 38 states and 6 Canadian provinces.
Be sure to check out our comprehensive list of women’s organizations that offer all types of activities and skill-building opportunities.
Publisher/Editor Barbara Baird is a freelance writer in hunting, shooting and outdoor markets. Her bylines are found at several top hunting and shooting publications. She also is a travel writer, and you can follow her at https://www.ozarkian.com. View all posts by Barbara Baird
