by Marc Sussino
FISHING
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Merit Badge

Mr. R.
"A naturalist is one who calls our attention to things we have seen all our lives, 
but have never noticed."

 
Mr. R's Fishing Passport© (20-page, 4"x5" pocket guide) is available in PDF format to print out for non-profit use (requires free Adobe Acrobat© Reader).  Passports are copyrighted, but scouts and troops may use them free of charge if they create only one per scout.  NO scout may be charged! BSA councils must first contact Mr. R. before creating large quantities for scout camps, merit badge fairs, etc.

 

 SAFETY PRACTICES
Req#
1
Explain to your counselor the injuries that could occur while fishing and the proper treatment, including cuts, scratches, puncture wounds, insect bites, hypothermia, dehydration, and heat reactions. Explain how to remove a hook that has lodged in your arm. Name and explain five safety practices you should always follow while fishing.
The Fishing Merit Badge Book has very good safety information to follow while fishing.

 

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN FISHING OUTFITS
Req#
2
Learn and explain 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. 

 

DEMONSTRATE EQUIPMENT
Req#
3
Demonstrate the proper use of two different types of fishing equipment. 
  • If you don't already know how, have a relative, neighbor, or friend show you how with the actually equipment.

 

 KNOT:  USES & HOW TO TIE
Req#
4
Demonstrate how to tie the following knots: clinch, palomar, turle, blood loop (barrel knot), and surgeon's loop. Explain how each knot is used and when to use it. 
  • Fishing Cairns Drawings from "Fishing Knots & Rigs". Includes all required knots.
  • Marinews Animated drawings the blood, palomar, and turle knots (and others).
  • Killroy's Knots  Drawings of Blood & Clinch Knot, and Surgeon's Loop.
  • Noreast.com Animated knot drawings

 
 
 HOW TO USE LURES AND BAITS
Req#
5
 Name and identify five basic artificial lures and five natural baits and explain how to fish with them. Explain why bait fish are not to be released. 
 

 

LEAVE NO TRACE
Req#
6
Explain the importance of practicing Leave No Trace and how it positively affects fishing resources. 

 

 FISHING REGULATIONS
Req#
7
Give the regulations affecting game fishing where you live. Explain why they were adopted and what you accomplish by following those regulations. 
For other states, search the Internet with "fishing regulations" and (your state name).

 

SPORTSMANLIKE FISHING
Req#
8
Explain what good outdoor sportsmanlike behavior is and how it relates to fishermen. 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.

 

CATCH & IDENTIFY FISH
Req#
9
Catch two different kinds of fish and identify them. Release at least one of them unharmed. Clean and cook another fish.
The Fishing Merit Badge Book has good drawings of common fish and tips to help catch them.

 

BSA Advancement ID#: 52
Pamphlet Revision Date: 2002
Requirements last updated in 2003
 

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  Animated graphics by Animation Factory

Webpage updated December 2008
Webmaster, Mr. R.