Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris is challenging families to put down their digital devices and get outside to discover the joys of fishing. To kick off Gone Fishing, the nationwide movement that gets kids and families connected to nature each summer, Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s are donating 50,000 rods and reels to nonprofit organizations that help kids from all backgrounds connect to the great outdoors.
Media are invited to Cabela’s in Rogers on Thursday, June 7, at 11:00 a.m. for a special ceremony featuring the Arkansas Youth Fishing Foundation, a local nonprofit that helps get kids outside, receiving a donation of rods and reels.
During the family friendly Gone Fishing events taking place over the next two weekends (June 9-10 and 16-17), kids of all ages are are invited to catch their first fish with free catch-and-release ponds, take home a “First Fish” certificate and beginner’s guides, and participate in free seminars, free crafts and free photo downloads.
The effort is part of the company’s mission to inspire future generations to enjoy, love and conserve the great outdoors. In the past five years, Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s have donated more than 300,000 items to youth-focused nonprofit organizations across North America.