Fishing Academy Going Strong through Support

By The Fishing Academy

The Fishing Academy has taken over 5,000 children out fishing through the after Ischool, summer, group, family and Veterans fishing programs.
The Fishing Academy has taken over 5,000 children out fishing through the after Ischool, summer, group, family and Veterans fishing programs.

In 2004, an idea to take inner-city kids off the streets and into the out-doors became reality when John Hoffman of Boston founded the non-profit charity The Fishing Academy (TFA). Born and raised in the Fidelis Way Housing Projects, John in his youth discovered sports and outdoor recreation, especially fishing, as a way to escape from drugs, alcohol abuse and street violence that was prevalent when he grew up in Boston, and that continues to afflict city youth today.

Now entering their second decade, The Fishing Academy has taken over 5,000 youth out fishing, providing school-based, after-school, summer, group, family and Veterans Fishing programs. The program has won numerous awards and accolades, but the only thing that matters at The Fishing Academy is watching the kids succeed.

Michael McHale, from Boston, was an at-risk youth who signed up as the program’s very first camper at the age of 12. After attending camp for several years, Michael landed his first job as a Junior Fishing Counselor with the organization. Today, Michael works as a Boston Park Ranger and says The Fishing Academy had a huge impact on him.

Children who have gone through the program have also caught trophy fish such as the Striped Bass 42 pounds at fishing tournaments.
Children who have gone through the program have also caught trophy fish such as the Striped Bass 42 pounds at fishing tournaments.

“Fishing has always been a big part of my life. Through The Fishing Academy I was able to further my knowledge of the sport and the great outdoors. More importantly, John and TFA taught me patience, leadership and appreciation for our natural surroundings and kept me out of trouble the inner-city can bring. As a Boston Park Ranger, I credit where I am now to The Fishing Academy and what they have done for me over the years.”

But none of these success stories could have happened without the support of donors, sponsors and companies according to Hoffman. One of these companies, Bass Pro Shops in Foxboro, has been supporting The Fishing Academy and other local youth groups for the past six years through their Annual Rod and Reel Trade In Program.

“I was contacted by Bass Pro Manager Jeff Moschella and he told me to come by to get some equipment that they wanted to donate, but it wasn’t just a couple of things. He supplied us with enough rods and reels to last a few seasons. They went above and beyond what we were expecting.” said Hoffman.

For the past 6 years, Bass Pro shop in Foxboro has been a supporter of The Fishing Academy by donating supplies to the program. Pictured left to right: Jeff Moschella, John Hoffman and Steve Jones.
For the past 6 years, Bass Pro shop in Foxboro has been a supporter of The Fishing Academy by donating supplies to the program. Pictured left to right: Jeff Moschella, John Hoffman and Steve Jones.

Eventually, The Fishing Academy started doing some in-store seminars that led to another great opportunity. Hoffman met Mercury Marine manager Blake Phillips and he helped them obtain a 2014 Mercury115hp Four Stroke Motor for the program. “I can’t thank Jeff and Blake enough for all their support, they have helped us put smiles on many kids’ faces. When that kid catches that very first fish and gains self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment, they played a big part in making that happen.”

Some of the kids that came through the program have also caught some trophy fish. Over 40 kids have caught State Pin Fish and have won awards for the biggest striped bass at 42 pounds and flounder at four and a half pounds at fish- ing tournaments. While having fun they are learning
youth development skills such as teamwork, discipline, patience, self-confidence, respect and decision-making.

Al Smith is a Youth Counselor at the Vine Street Community Center in Roxbury, a neighborhood that has been infested with gang activity and violence. Over the years, hundreds of the youth he works with have attended the Fishing Academy programs and he sees the positive impact it has on them. “Many of these kids have never been fishing before and don’t have fathers to take them” says Smith, “These kids now get to experience going out on boats in Boston Harbor and Cape Cod. Our kids have come back and volunteered with The Fishing Academy. It gives them a purpose, something to look forward to.”

The Fishing Academy receives grants from Boston College, Boston University and Harvard University but relies on small donations from fellow anglers and donors to keep programs running strong. Donations can be sent to The Fishing Academy, 16 Adair Road, Brigh- ton, MA 02135. All donations are tax de- ductible. If you would like to volunteer on the Board of Directors or at events email info@thefishingacademy.org.

With your support, The Fishing Academy will continue to provide quality programming that keeps kids safe while putting smiles on their faces. Together we can help them develop into future leaders of their communities so that someday they too can create positive opportunities for the next generation! Because at the end of the day, remember, it’s all about the kids!