Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure for 2024

The Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure is a great way for Scouts to learn about fishing. In this adventure, Webelos plan a fishing trip and learn about different types of fish and their environments. They also learn how to use fishing equipment safely and responsibly. This activity helps Scouts enjoy nature and learn important outdoor skills

Fishing is not just about catching fish; it’s about understanding nature and being a responsible part of it. Webelos learn to recognize different fish species and understand where these fish live. This knowledge helps them appreciate the diversity of life in water bodies and the importance of protecting these environments.

Safety is a key part of the Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure. Scouts use the BSA SAFE Checklist to prepare for their fishing trip. This teaches them to always think ahead and plan for safety when doing outdoor activities. By following safety guidelines, Scouts ensure that their fishing experience is fun and safe for everyone involved.

Overall, this Catch the Big One adventure helps Webelos develop respect for nature and learn fishing skills they can use and enjoy throughout their lives. It also encourages teamwork and planning, which are important skills for all Scouts.

Catch the Big One Adventure Requirements

1. Make a plan to go fishing.  Determine where you will go and what type of fish you plan to catch.  All of the following requirements are to be completed based on your choice.
2. Use the BSA SAFE Checklist to plan what you need for your fishing experience. 
3. Describe the environment where the fish might be found.
4. Make a list of the equipment and materials you will need to fish.  
5. Determine the best type of knot to tie your hook and tie it.
6. Set up the appropriate type of fishing rod and tackle you will be using.  Have an adult review your gear.
7. Using what you have learned about fish and fishing equipment, spend at least an hour fishing following local guidelines and regulations.

Printable requirements for the Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure

Check off sheet to keep track of your den’s progress on the Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure

Webelos Adventures Check Off Sheet

Make a Plan

Make a plan to go fishing.  Determine where you will go and what type of fish you plan to catch.  All of the following requirements are to be completed based on your choice.

For the first requirement of the Catch the Big One adventure, Webelos need to make a plan for their fishing trip. This means deciding where to go fishing and what kind of fish they want to catch. This choice will guide the rest of the activities they do in this adventure.

The Take Me Fishing website can be helpful in locating places to fish in your area.

Here is an option for fulfilling Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure requirement 1:

• Plan Your Fishing Adventure
  • Cub Scouts plan their fishing adventure.
  • Supplies: Fishing Plan printout, pencils, computers or smart devices
  • indoor, low energy, 1 to 3 days prep

Planning helps Scouts think ahead and organize their trip to have a successful and fun fishing experience. This step is important because it sets the foundation for all the other things they will learn and do in Catch the Big One.

BSA SAFE Checklist

Use the BSA SAFE Checklist to plan what you need for your fishing experience.

For the second requirement of the Catch the Big One adventure, Webelos use the BSA SAFE Checklist to prepare for their fishing trip. This checklist helps them think of everything they need to bring and do to stay safe while fishing. It includes things like wearing the right clothes, bringing safety gear, and knowing who to contact in an emergency.

Get the BSA SAFE Checklist here.

Here is an option for fulfilling Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure requirement 2:

• Safety First
  • Cub Scouts use the BSA SAFE checklist for their fishing adventure.
  • Supplies: BSA Safe Checklist, flip chart or white board or chalk board, markers or chalk, pencils
  • indoor, low energy, 1 to 3 days prep

Using the checklist makes sure that Scouts are ready for any situation and can focus on enjoying their Catch the Big One experience safely.

Aquatic Environments

Describe the environment where the fish might be found.

For the third requirement of the Catch the Big One adventure, Webelos need to describe where the fish they want to catch can be found. This involves understanding different water environments like rivers, lakes, or ponds and what types of fish live in each. For this age group, a creative approach could include activities like:

• Drawing a Map: Have Scouts draw a map of the fishing area, marking where they think different types of fish might be found.
• Guest Speaker: Have an angler who is familiar with the fishing location come and talk about what fish might be caught and good places to fish.
• Field Trip: Visit a local aquarium or fish hatchery before the fishing trip, so Scouts can see some fish species in person and learn about their habitats.

Here are some options for fulfilling Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure requirement 3:

• Fish Diorama
  • Cub Scouts create a fish environment diorama.
  • Supplies: shoebox, colored paper glue sticks, small craft pebbles, small sticks, air dry clay, plastic knives, scissors, fishing magazines
  • indoor, moderate energy, 3 to 5 days prep
• Tag, You’re Caught!
  • Cub Scouts learn what different fish like to eat and their environments by playing a tag-like game.
  • Supplies: Fish Tag printout, hat, stickers
  • indoor, very high energy, 3 to 5 days prep
• Think Like A Fish
  • Cub Scouts describe fish environments and where they might be found.
  • Supplies: Think Like A Fish worksheet, pencils, crayons or markers
  • indoor, low energy, 1 to 3 days prep

These activities will help Webelos better understand the environments where fish live and make their Catch the Big One adventure more engaging and educational.

Fishing Equipment

Make a list of the equipment and materials you will need to fish.

For the fourth requirement of the Catch the Big One adventure, Webelos need to list the equipment and materials they will need for fishing. This includes items like fishing rods, bait, hooks, and a tackle box. This step is important because being prepared with the right tools is key to a successful fishing trip.

Here are some creative ideas for Webelos to engage with this requirement:

• Equipment Show and Tell: Each Scout can bring a piece of fishing equipment to a meeting, explain what it is used for, and demonstrate how to use it. This helps everyone learn about different fishing tools.
• DIY Fishing Gear: Scouts can try making simple fishing gear, like tying their own flies or assembling a basic tackle box. This gives them a hands-on understanding of fishing tools.
• Checklist Creation: Have the Scouts work together to create a comprehensive fishing trip checklist. They can include everything from snacks to sunscreen, ensuring they think of all essentials.

Here is an option for fulfilling Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure requirement 4:

• Group Tackle Box
  • Cub Scouts learn what equipment should go into a tackle box.
  • Supplies: tackle box, fishing line, fishing license, barbless hooks, bobbers, sinkers, swivels, bait, needle nose pliers, scissors, first aid kit, de-hooker, trash bag
  • indoor, low energy, more than one week prep

These activities make learning about fishing equipment fun and practical, helping Webelos be well-prepared for their adventure.

Fishing Knots

Determine the best type of knot to tie your hook to your line and tie it.

For the fifth requirement of the Catch the Big One adventure, Webelos learn to tie a knot that connects their hook to their fishing line. Knowing how to tie a good fishing knot is important because it keeps the hook secured to the line, helping ensure that the fish doesn’t get away.

Here are a few common fishing knots that Webelos might learn:

• Improved Clinch Knot: This knot is strong and easy to tie. It’s great for attaching the hook to the line and works well with most types of fishing lines. See how to tie this knot.
• Palomar Knot: Known for its strength, the Palomar knot is simple and very effective, especially with monofilament fishing line. It’s a good choice for securing a hook or a swivel. See how to tie this knot.
• Uni Knot: Versatile and strong, the Uni Knot can be used for tying the hook to the line, as well as for other fishing connections. See how to tie this knot.

Creative ideas to practice these knots include:

• Knot Tying Race: Organize a fun race where Scouts compete to tie each type of knot the fastest and the most accurately.
• Knot Practice Boards: Create practice boards with diagrams of different knots. Scouts can use these boards to practice tying knots during meetings.

Here is an option for fulfilling Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure requirement 5:

• Knot Stations
  • Cub Scouts practice fishing knots by doing stations around the meeting space.
  • Supplies: fishing line, small washers, scissors
  • indoor, moderate energy, 1 to 3 days prep

Learning these knots not only prepares Webelos for fishing but also teaches them useful skills for other outdoor activities.

Rod and Tackle

Choose the appropriate type of fishing rod and tackle you will be using.  Have an adult review your gear.

For the sixth requirement of the Catch the Big One adventure, Webelos must choose the right type of fishing rod and tackle for their planned fishing trip. They also need to have an adult check their gear to make sure it’s suitable and safe for use. This step is crucial because using the correct equipment can make the fishing experience more successful and enjoyable.

Here are some ways to help Webelos with this requirement:

• Fishing Gear Workshop: Hold a meeting where Scouts bring their fishing rods and tackle, and an experienced angler or adult leader reviews each item. This could include demonstrations on how to use each piece of equipment properly.
• Gear Matching Game: Create a game where Scouts match different types of fishing rods and tackle with the types of fish they’re most suited for. This helps them understand why certain equipment is better for certain situations.
• Equipment Research Project: Assign each Scout to research a type of fishing rod or piece of tackle. They can present their findings to the group, explaining what it’s best used for and why.

Here is an option for fulfilling Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure requirement 6:

• Gear Check
  • Cub Scouts have their fishing gear checked by an adult leader.
  • Supplies: fishing poles, tackle boxes, Cub Scout Six Essentials, bait
  • outdoor, very low energy, 3 to 5 days prep

These activities not only make learning about fishing gear more fun but also deepen the Scouts’ understanding of how to choose and use their equipment effectively.

Go Fishing

Using what you have learned about fish and fishing equipment, spend at least one hour fishing following local guidelines and regulations.

For the seventh requirement of the Catch the Big One adventure, Webelos need to apply what they’ve learned by spending at least one hour fishing. They must follow all local fishing guidelines and regulations during this activity. This requirement is important because it gives Scouts a chance to practice fishing skills in a real-world setting and learn about being responsible anglers.

• Fishing Field Trip: Organize a group trip to your selected fishing spot. Make sure to have enough adults to supervise and help as needed.
• Fish Identification Contest: During the fishing trip, have a contest to see who can identify the most types of fish caught or spotted. This adds a fun learning element to the outing.

Here is an option for fulfilling Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure requirement 7:

• Catch the Big One
  • Cub Scouts go fishing for at least one hour.
  • Supplies: fishing poles, fishing licenses, barbless hooks, bobbers, sinkers, swivels, artificial bait, needle nose pliers, scissors, de-hooking, fishing net, bait or tackle, first aid kit, Cub Scout Six Essentials, Activity Consent Form
  • requires travel, high energy, more than a week prep

These activities not only make the fishing trip more fun but also reinforce the skills and knowledge the Scouts have gained throughout the Catch the Big One adventure.

Before any activity, check the SAFE Checklist to make sure everyone is safe. Everyone involved in Scouting America activities should know the Guide to Safe Scouting and other relevant guides or books. Also follow any state or local rules that are more strict than Scouting America rules and guidelines.

Before starting the Adventure:

• Review fishing content on Scouting.org.
• Check state requirements for fishing licenses or permits for youth and adults.
• Secure extra adult supervision to help Cub Scouts during the activity.
• Get permission to fish at your chosen location.
• Check the weather before you go. Do not fish in a thunderstorm or bad weather.
• If fishing in freshwater, review the Fishing Basics PowerPoint presentation and Instructor’s Guide.
• Find additional fishing resources in Scout Life Magazine.

During the Adventure:

• Use the buddy system.
• Give plenty of space to others who are fishing nearby.
• Never fish where people are swimming.

To stay safe, follow these six rules:

1. Fish with proper adult supervision.
2. Get permission to fish at your chosen location.
3. Check the weather before you go. Do not fish in a thunderstorm or bad weather.
4. Use the buddy system. Always keep your buddy in sight.
5. Give plenty of space to others who are fishing nearby.
6. Never fish where people are swimming.

Before starting this Adventure, review Digital Safety and Online Scouting Activities.

More information

What do I need to bring for the Catch the Big One adventure?

• You need a fishing rod, fishing line, hooks, bait, and a tackle box. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, and water.

Do I need a fishing license for this adventure?

It depends on where you are fishing and your age. Check local fishing regulations or ask an adult to help you find out.

How do I know which fish I can catch?

Research the types of fish common in the area where you will fish. Use books or safe online sources to learn about local fish.

What is the BSA SAFE Checklist?

The BSA SAFE Checklist is a list of safety steps and things to check before going on a scouting adventure. It helps make sure you are safe and prepared. You can find it here.

Why do I need to have an adult check my gear?

An adult checks your gear to make sure it’s right for you and safe to use. This helps prevent accidents and makes your fishing experience better.

What should I do if I don’t catch any fish?

It’s okay if you don’t catch fish. Fishing is about enjoying nature and learning new skills. You can always try again another time.

The Webelos Catch the Big One adventure is a fun journey into the world of fishing. It’s designed for Webelos Scouts to explore and learn about fishing, fish habitats, and the importance of respecting nature. Throughout this adventure, Scouts plan and carry out an actual fishing trip, applying what they’ve learned about fishing techniques and safety.

This adventure begins with Scouts making a detailed plan for their fishing trip. They decide where to go, what types of fish they aim to catch, and how they will catch them. This planning stage is crucial as it sets the stage for everything that follows. Scouts use the BSA SAFE Checklist during this phase to ensure their trip is safe and well-organized, covering all necessary precautions and gear.

Next, Webelos dive into learning about different fish species and their environments. This knowledge helps them understand where to fish and what methods to use. They also prepare by listing the equipment they’ll need, like rods, lines, and bait, and learning to tie the right kinds of knots to secure their hooks.

An important part of the adventure is choosing the right fishing gear. Scouts get to pick out their rods and tackle, and an adult checks to make sure their choices are appropriate. This not only teaches them about the tools of fishing but also ensures they are using gear that is safe and suitable for their skill level.

Finally, the Scouts put all their preparation into action by going fishing for at least an hour, following local rules and guidelines. This hands-on experience is where they get to see the fruits of their labor, practicing patience and enjoying the great outdoors.

The Catch the Big One adventure is about fostering a deeper appreciation for nature, learning practical outdoor skills, and having fun in a responsible way. It’s a great way for Webelos to connect with their environment and each other, setting them up for further scouting adventures.