Free Learn to Fish Course!

The IGFA's Intro to Fishing course offers an immersive curriculum covering angling basics and safety, aquatic and marine biology, fish anatomy, environmental stewardship, and more! The goal of the IGFA Online Angling Education Resources is to provide young and/or novice anglers with a strong foundation of angling knowledge in a comfortable, virtual setting that will give them the confidence to get out and go fishing in a responsible and ethical way. The IGFA's Intro to Fishing course is the first of several online resources planned for release and presented on a fun, interactive learning platform.

Course Chapters

Intro to Fishing

Course Curriculum

  • 01
    The Fish
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    • What Makes a Fish a Fish?
    • Eat or Be Eaten!
    • Quick Review of Fish
    • Intro to Fish Identification - Which Fish is Which?
    • Freshwater Fish Identification
    • Saltwater Fish Identification
    • The Blue Marlin
    • Fresh and Salt Water Fish Identification
    • Practice Your New Fish ID Skills!
    • Print and Color Your Own Game Fish!
    • Fun Fish Facts!
  • 02
    The Habitat
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    • Where do Fish Live?
    • Types of Aquatic Habitats
    • The Importance of Plants
    • Why are Habitats Important?
    • Quick Review of Fish Habitat
  • 03
    The Basics
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    • The Angler and the Gear
    • How to Rig a Spincast Combo
    • How to Rig a Spinning Combo
    • How to Choose a Kid's Tackle Box
    • Quick Review of the Gear
    • How to Tie a Clinch Knot
    • How to Tie a Uni Knot
    • How to Tie a Palomar Knot
    • Download IGFA's Fishing Knots Handout to Practice!
    • Natural Baits and How to Rig Them
    • Artificial Baits and How to Rig Them
    • Rigging Baits for Saltwater
    • Quick Review
    • Angling Safety Tips
    • Safe Boating Tips
    • How to Cast a Spincast
    • How to Cast a Spinning
    • Quick Review of Safety and Casting
    • How to Catch a Fish!
  • 04
    The Ethical Angler
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    • Who is an Ethical Angler?
    • What is Conservation?
    • How to Release a Fish Using a De-Hooking Tool
    • How to Release a Fish Properly Without Using a De-Hooking Tool
    • Kick Plastic with Costa Sunglasses
    • Review of Ethical Angling Practices
    • TakeMeFishing.org explains the benefits of fishing licenses.
    • Quick Review of Fishing Licenses
  • 05
    The IGFA
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    • Who is the International Game Fish Association (IGFA)?
    • Learn how to submit an IGFA World Record
    • Learn more about the IGFA's Passports to Fishing program - our signature angling education program
    • Learn more about the IGFA Great Marlin Race - our signature conservation program
  • 06
    Wrap Up and Keep Learning!
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    • Quick Survey for the IGFA
    • Pass on the Passion
    • Junior Ranger - Let's Go Fishing Activity Book
    • Catch a Memory with Reel Guppy Outdoors! - Activity Book
    • Catch a Memory with Reel Guppy Outdoors! - Activity Book (Spanish)
    • Thank you!

Student Testimonials

“Great learning experience and a very well structured program. Learning to fish can be a daunting experience but this training makes you gain that required confidence.”

Eduardo

Texas, USA

“I really really enjoyed it, and I don't think there is anything wrong with it. Thanks for giving me info about fishing!!”

Khalifa

Manama, Bahrain

“Thank you IGFA for a great course! I have fished for most of my life, but I took this course along with some kids who I babysit. This was an excellent addition to their homeschool curriculum and I learned so much too! I definitely want to get back out on the water and fall in love with fishing again!”

Grace

Virginia, USA

FREE Digital Membership!

Upon completion of the course, students will receive a Certificate of Recognition and a PROMO CODE for a free, IGFA Digital Membership ($20 USD Value) or $10 USD off an Individual Membership. Get exclusive “Members Only” online access to: the IGFA World Record database, How-To & Historical Videos, World Record Game Fishes archives, the monthly International Angler digital publication, and discounts on tackle, trips, charters, and more from IGFA partners. Upgrade to an Individual Membership and receive the IGFA World Record Game Fishes book!
FREE Digital Membership!

The IGFA is a nonprofit organization committed to the conservation of game fish and the promotion of responsible, ethical angling practices through science, education, rule making, record keeping and recognition of outstanding accomplishments in the field of angling.