Angler Recruitment, Retention and Reactivation Grant Program
Forecasted
Angler Recruitment, Retention and Reactivation Grant Program supports Wisconsin partners running fishing education and participation activities to develop new anglers, keep novices engaged and welcome lapsed anglers back.
Funder: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates (Anticipated): February 2027 (annual application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $5,000 per award; up to 75% of eligible project costs
Summary: Supports Wisconsin programs that recruit, retain, and reactivate anglers through education and participation activities.
Key Information: Recipients pay project costs before seeking reimbursement; work begun before a signed grant agreement is not reimbursable.
Description
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) funds partners conducting angler recruitment, retention, and reactivation activities in Wisconsin. The program aims to grow the number of anglers and expand adult participation, particularly among audiences not traditionally engaged in fishing. Community-based education, skill-building, and mentorship help participants become safe, ethical anglers. Youth education programs are also a program priority.
Funding comes through the federal Dingell-Johnson Sportfish Restoration Act. Projects can support instructors, services, fishing supplies, equipment, and transportation needed for activities. DNR prioritizes programs with documented success in developing new anglers, effective instructor training, and approaches that retain novice anglers or bring lapsed anglers back to fishing.
