Quotes

"The Passport Challenge will encourage Californians to fish in a variety of the state's most spectacular settings," said Secretary for Resources Mike Chrisman. "Outdoor activities, like fishing, give people a greater understanding and appreciation of California's rich natural resources, and will help them become better stewards of our environment."

"Our goal with the California Fishing Passport Challenge is to highlight all the fishing opportunities that the state has to offer," said CDFW Director Ryan Broddrick. "Whether you're new to fishing or you've been in the sport your whole life, the California Fishing Passport Challenge can point the way to a tremendous number of unique fishing experiences available only here in California."

"Completing this challenge will not be an easy endeavor and it will likely entail using a variety of different fishing methods along the way, said Carrie Wilson, CDFW marine biologist and Passport Challenge program coordinator. "This program will give anglers the educational tools and incentives needed to experience the state's full-range of fishing opportunities, currently a list of more than 200 game fish and shellfish species! Are you up to the Challenge?"

"California has some of the finest sport fishing in the world. UASC is proud to partner with CDFW in celebrating this with all of Californians," said Tom Raftican, president of United Anglers of Southern California.

"Each year, the Children's Fishing Festival draws people from all across the county, but it wouldn't be possible without our sponsors," said EJ Rummel, president of the Mammoth Lakes Sport Fishing Association. "Our volunteers teach freshwater techniques and focus on the child's overall experience to get them hooked on fishing," he said.

"For many, piers are the alpha and omega of their California saltwater fishing experience. They learn to fish on piers with their parents, they end their fishing days on piers with their grandkids," said Ken Jones, president of United Pier and Shore Anglers of California.

"The California Fishing Passport Challenge is a great program, and West Marine is pleased to participate with the California Department of Fish & Wildlife, the United Anglers of Southern California and the other partners," said Laurie Fried, West Marine's director of donations. "At West Marine, we encourage people to get out on the water and have fun, and recreational fishing is a terrific family activity."

".I really believe that fishing is an excellent way for families to spend time together. I know it's had a positive effect on my family and I would not trade anything for the time I spend with my husband and children fishing and boating," said actress Jane Seymour. "I'm looking forward to sharing our experiences and encouraging others to take their families and friends out on the water," said Seymour, who will serve as the 2006 Honorary Chairperson of National Fishing and Boating Week. Seymour is best known for her starring role on Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman, for which she won a Golden Globe Award.

"Fishing has always been a big part of my life, and I'm having a great time teaching my son, who always looks forward to the next time I take him fishing," said Dean Cain, actor and 2005 Honorary Chairperson of National Fishing and Boating Week. Cain is best known for his breakthrough role as Superman/Clark Kent in Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman.

"Pure Fishing is proud to partner with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to support the California Fishing Passport Challenge," said Ron Ten Berge, Executive Vice President of Pure Fishing, North America. "As a company deeply committed to the health and wellbeing of our natural resources, we hope our involvement in this unique program helps foster an appreciation for and participation in the countless sport fishing opportunities found in the beautiful state of California."

"Conserving resources and involving kids is the key to the future of fishing," said Jim Martin, Conservation Director of the Berkley Conservation Institute. "The great conservationists of our generation all began with a rod in hand, discovering the delight of trying to trick a fish...and getting tricked back by a little bit smarter fish. The Berkley Conservation Institute is delighted to support the California Dept. of Fish and Wildlife and other partners like the United Anglers of Southern California to help all the generations discover the diversity of California fishing....in the Land of the Endless Season."