Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure
Adventure Type: Elective
Number of Requirements: 7
Typical Time to Complete: 1 meeting plus a fishing outing
Parent Involvement: Moderate; gear review, supervision, transportation
Preparation Needed: Choose a location, check regulations, gather fishing gear
Activity Level: Moderate
Indoor or Outdoor: Indoor preparation, outdoor fishing
Special Requirements: SAFE Checklist, adult gear review, fish for at least 1 hour, follow local regulations
Supplies Snapshot: Fishing rod, tackle, bait, safety gear, fishing license if required
The Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure introduces Scouts to fishing through planning, preparation, and hands-on experience. Webelos learn about fish, their habitats, and the equipment needed for a successful trip.
Scouts also practice important skills such as tying fishing knots, setting up a rod and tackle, and using the BSA SAFE Checklist. These activities teach them to prepare carefully and enjoy the outdoors safely.
By spending time fishing and following local regulations, Webelos learn to be responsible anglers. Along the way, they build teamwork, confidence, and respect for nature.
Requirements for the Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure
Catch the Big One Adventure Requirements
- 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.
- Use the BSA SAFE Checklist to plan what you need for your fishing experience.
- Describe the environment where the fish might be found.
- Make a list of the equipment and materials you will need to fish.
- Determine the best type of knot to tie your hook and tie it.
- Set up the appropriate type of fishing rod and tackle you will be using. Have an adult review your gear.
- 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
Resources for the Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure
Requirement 1: 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.
Help Webelos choose a nearby fishing spot and a fish commonly found there. Keep the plan simple by checking access, travel time, and local fishing rules in advance.
Easy Option: Complete a fishing plan together as a den using one local pond or lake. See Plan Your Fishing Adventure. The Take Me Fishing website can be helpful in locating places to fish in your area.
Requirement 2: Prepare for Safety
Use the BSA SAFE Checklist to plan what you need for your fishing experience.
Review the BSA SAFE Checklist as a group and discuss the clothing, supplies, supervision, and emergency information needed for the outing. Assign each Scout one item to check so everyone takes part.
Easy Option: Display the checklist and work through it together during a den meeting. See Safety First. Get the BSA SAFE Checklist here.
Requirement 3: Explore the Fish’s Environment
Describe the environment where the fish might be found.
Encourage Webelos to think about what their chosen fish needs, such as food, shelter, clean water, and the right temperature. Pictures or a simple drawing can make the discussion easier.
Easy Option: Have each Scout draw the fishing spot and mark where the fish might hide or feed.
More options:
- Fish Diorama: Cub Scouts create a fish environment diorama.
- Tag, You’re Caught! Cub Scouts learn what different fish like to eat and their environments by playing a tag-like game.
- Think Like A Fish: Cub Scouts describe fish environments and where they might be found.
Requirement 4: Gather Fishing Equipment
Make a list of the equipment and materials you will need to fish.
Show Scouts a basic fishing setup and explain what each item does. Focus on essential gear, including a rod, line, hook, bait, pliers, safety supplies, and any required license.
Easy Option: Pack one group tackle box together and use it as a visual checklist. See Group Tackle Box.
Here are some creative ideas for Webelos to engage with this requirement:
Requirement 5: Practice a Fishing Knot
Determine the best type of knot to tie your hook to your line and tie it.
Choose one beginner-friendly knot and demonstrate it slowly using thick cord before moving to fishing line. Give Scouts time to practice, and check that each finished knot holds securely.
Easy Option: Teach only the improved clinch knot and let Scouts practice by tying line to a washer. See how to tie this knot.
More resources:
- See how to tie the Palomar knot.
- See how to tie the Uni knot.
- Knot Stations: Cub Scouts practice fishing knots by doing stations around the meeting space.
Requirement 6: Check the Rod and Tackle
Choose the appropriate type of fishing rod and tackle you will be using. Have an adult review your gear.
Ask an experienced adult to make sure each Scout’s rod and tackle are safe and suitable for the planned location and fish. A quick check before the outing leaves more time for fishing.
Easy Option: Hold a short gear-check station at the start of the fishing trip. See Gear Check.
Requirement 7: Go Fishing
Using what you have learned about fish and fishing equipment, spend at least one hour fishing following local guidelines and regulations.
7. Go Fishing
Plan at least one hour at an easy-to-reach fishing location with enough adults available to help. Review local regulations beforehand and remind Scouts that practicing their skills matters more than catching a fish.
Easy Option: Visit a stocked pond or community fishing area where beginners can fish from the shore. See Catch the Big One.
Frequently Asked Questions for the Webelos Catch the Big One Adventure
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.
Hook, Line, and Thinker
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.
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