Family Fishing Fun with Michael Scherer with Fishing’s Future

Podcast Overview

Show: The Best of the Outdoors Podcast

Host: Dustin Vaughn Warncke

Guest: Michael Scherer, Program Director of Fishing’s Future

In this enthusiastic and lighthearted episode, the conversation centers around the mission of Fishing's Future, an organization dedicated to reconnecting families and individuals with nature through angling. Michael Scherer shares his profound passion for the outdoors, emphasizing that fishing is less about the gear or the size of the catch, and more about the memories made and the therapeutic benefits of being on the water.

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Key Takeaways & Themes

• The Mission of Fishing’s Future: Founded in 2007 by Shane Wilson in South Padre Island, the organization has grown to over 70 chapters nationwide. A major milestone discussed is the organization reaching its one-millionth participant in 2018.

• "Kiss the Fish" Tradition: Scherer brings a fun, contagious energy to his camps by insisting that every fish caught—no matter how small—gets a kiss. This playful rule is designed to create unforgettable, joyful memories for kids and families.

• Fishing as Therapy & Healing: A core theme of the episode is the healing power of the outdoors. Fishing’s Future works closely with military personnel, particularly those recovering from PTSD, partnering with the USO and Fort Hood to help soldiers reset and find peace on the water.

• The "I CAN" Initiative: Scherer highlights their dedication to accessibility through the "I CAN" initiative, which utilizes a custom-rebuilt, 25-foot tri-toon boat that lowers to water level so that individuals in wheelchairs can safely and easily fish. They also deploy large "I Catch" tanks at festivals to bring the fishing experience directly to people.

• Minimalism in Angling: The conversation advocates for keeping fishing simple. Rather than focusing on expensive gear or bringing a dozen rods, Scherer encourages a minimalist approach: just bring some bait, get a line in the water, and enjoy the solitude or the company of family.

• Youth Leadership: The organization recently secured a grant to certify older teenagers (15–17 years old) as angling instructors, empowering them to teach their peers and take on leadership roles in the outdoors.

• Hall of Fame Induction: Toward the end of the episode, Michael shares the exciting personal news that he will be inducted into the Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame in Athens, Texas.

Closing Thought: Ultimately, the episode serves as a passionate call to action for listeners to step away from their daily stressors, take a kid or a family member out to the water, and experience the grounding, restorative power of nature.