Angler education instructor certification

Angler Education Instructors provide a range of clinics and programs in a variety of places. The DNR provides teaching materials to certified instructors, along with tips that help instructors tailor their programs to meet the needs of the groups they serve.

Certification steps

• Attend an instructor training workshop.
• Sign the Angler Education Standards of Conduct on the volunteer application at the workshop.
• Pass the background check administered by the DNR's Bureau of Law Enforcement. You may download the mentor background check form, DNR Form 4100-217 [PDF], to begin this process.

Instructor qualifications

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have an interest in aquatic resources and their well-being.
• Possess a strong personal sense of outdoor ethics.
• Enjoy working with people of all ages.
• Have good communication and organizational skills.
• Hold a current fishing license when while fishing or leading fishing outings.

General fishing skills are helpful, but not required; a willingness to participate and learn is essential!

Instructor duties

• Conduct Angler Education programs for clubs, youth groups, or schools in their communities.
• Recruit assistants and participants.
• Return loaner equipment and materials promptly and in good condition.
• Document and submit timely and accurate program records to the Angler Education office.
• Supervise and assist Fishing Buddies and other volunteers involved with your program.

Recertification requirements

We ask instructors to offer at least one program within the first year of certification. Re-certification will automatically renew for instructors who provide a program at least once every two years. Instructors inactive for two years must attend another workshop to become re-certified.