Beginning in 2020, AFA volunteers assisted Plumas County CF&W Fisheries Biologist Amber Mouser with taking Plumas County fourth graders fishing.

The Almanor Fishing Association partnered with Amber and CF&W to host a series of kids’ fishing days for all the Plumas County fourth grade classes. Amber scheduled fish plants at waters close to each of the Plumas County elementary schools to wrap up their year of studying fish: Snake Lake for Quincy Elementary School, Round Valley Reservoir for Greenville Elementary School, the North Fork Feather River for Chester Elementary School, and Lake Davis for C Roy Carmichael Elementary School. The kids got to help plant the fish from the truck into the water at each location, followed by an opportunity to fish for them. Many of the kids had never fished before, and some even limited it out! The fish were provided by American River Hatchery, Crystal Lake Hatchery, and Darrah Springs Hatchery. In the beginning fishing rods were borrowed from the CF&W Fishing in the City Program. Many volunteers were on hand, including members of the Almanor Fishing Association, local fishing guides, the Plumas County Fish and Game Commission, local businesses, teachers, and parents. These events were such a success that CF&W was able to purchase rods that are dedicated to this program and will continue to support these activities on an annual basis. From gracious donations the Almanor Fishing Association, for the past three years, has provided every participating fourth grader with their own fishing rod and reel!

Hopefully, these events will help to foster a love for fishing and the outdoors. These kids may grow up to be the next generation of advocates to help preserve and enhance our local fisheries. This is truly a rewarding experience for everyone involved.