Requirements
1. Do the following:
a. Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may
encounter while participating in fishing activities, and
what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate,
and respond to these hazards.
b. Discuss the prevention of and treatment for the
following health concerns that could occur while
fishing, including cuts and scratches, puncture
wounds, insect bites, hypothermia, dehydration,
heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and sunburn.
c. Explain how to remove a hook that has lodged in
your arm.
d. Name and explain five safety practices you should
always follow while fishing.
2. Discuss the differences between two types of fishing outfits.
Point out and identify the parts of several types of rods
and reels. Explain how and when each would
be used. Review with your counselor
how to care for this equipment.
3. Demonstrate the proper use of two different types of
fishing equipment.
4. Demonstrate how to tie the following knots: improved clinch
knot, Palomar knot, uni knot, uni to uni knot, and arbor
knot. Explain how and when each knot is used.
5. Name and identify five basic artificial lures and five
natural baits and explain how to fish with them. Explain
why baitfish are not to be released.
6. Do the following:
a. Explain the importance of practicing Leave No Trace
techniques. Discuss the positive effects of Leave No
Trace on fishing resources.
b. Discuss the meaning and importance of catch and release.
Describe how to properly release a fish safely to the water.
7. Obtain and review the regulations affecting game fishing
where you live. Explain why they were adopted and what
is accomplished by following them.
8. Explain what good outdoor sportsmanlike behavior is and
how it relates to anglers. Tell how the Outdoor Code of the
Boy Scouts of America relates to a fishing sports enthusiast,
including the aspects of littering, trespassing, courteous
behavior, and obeying fishing regulations.
9. Catch at least one fish and identify it.
10. If regulations and health concerns permit, clean and cook a
fish you have caught. Otherwise, acquire a fish to clean and
cook it. (You do not need to eat your fish.)
Earning the BSA Complete Angler Award could help
you expand your fishing knowledge and experiences.
To become eligible for the award, start by earning
these three merit badges: Fishing, Fly-Fishing, and Fish
and Wildlife Management. Then complete one or more of
the following projects:
• Teach a Fishing or Fly Fishing merit badge skill to your troop, crew,
or team as part of a unit program activity.
• Help instruct Cub Scouts on fishing skills or fishery management as
part of a Cub Scout meeting or outing.
• Participate in a local fishing derby or tournament, either a Scouting
or community event.
• Complete a conservation project that will benefit a local fishery.
With the Complete Angler Award, you can become a mentor for
younger Scouts, sharing your knowledge and helping others to enjoy a
positive fishing experience. For more information, visit www.scouting.
org/Home/OutdoorProgram/Fishing.aspx.
Resources:
Scouting.org Merit Badges - Requirements
boyscouttrail.com Merit Badges