Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure

Printable requirements for the Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure

Checkoff sheet to keep track of your den’s progress on the Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure

Arrow of Light Badge Checkoff Sheet

BSA Safe Checklist

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

For the second requirement of the Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure, AOL Scouts must use the BSA SAFE Checklist. This checklist helps Scouts make sure they have everything needed for a safe fishing trip.

Download the BSA Safe Checklist here.

Here’s how to use it:

• Supervision: Make sure adults are there to help and watch over the Scouts.
• Assessment: Look at the fishing area before you go to see if it’s safe.
• Fitness and Skill: Check that all Scouts can handle the fishing activities planned.
• Equipment and Environment: Gather all the gear needed like fishing rods, bait, and safety items like life jackets. Also, check the weather to make sure it’s safe to go fishing.

Here is an option for fulfilling Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure requirement 2:

• Hooked on Safety
  • 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 BSA SAFE Checklist helps Scouts plan a safe and enjoyable fishing experience as part of their Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure.

Where to Find Fish

Describe the environment where the fish might be found.

For the third requirement of the Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure, AOL Scouts need to describe the environment where the fish they plan to catch might be found. This helps Scouts understand more about fish habitats and the importance of preserving these natural areas. Here are some ideas to guide them:

• Type of Water: Explain whether the fish live in a lake, river, or pond. Each type of water body has different conditions like water flow and depth.
• Surrounding Area: Look at what’s around the water. Are there trees, bushes, or open fields? This can affect the water temperature and what food is available for the fish.
• Water Conditions: Discuss if the water is clear or murky, shallow or deep. Fish prefer different conditions depending on their species.
• Plant Life: Identify what kinds of plants are in and around the water. Some fish use these plants for hiding or breeding.

Here are some options for fulfilling Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure requirement 3:

• “Reel” Estate
  • Cub Scouts create a flyer to advertise local aquatic ecosystems and fish habitats.
  • Supplies: white paper, crayons or markers, fishing books with habitat information, printed material
  • indoor, low energy, 1 to 3 days prep
• Fin-tastic Habitat Chat
  • Cub Scouts learn about local fish from a guest speaker. 
  • Supplies: Wildlife Officer, Game Warden, Conservation Officer, Fish and Game Warden, Wildlife Enforcement Agent, or Ranger 
  • indoor, low energy, more than a week prep
• Model Habitat
  • Cub Scouts make a model of a local fish habitat. 
  • Supplies: empty cereal box, colorful paper, glue sticks, empty toilet paper tubes, scissors, markers, tape
  • indoor, moderate energy, 3 to 5 days prep

Describing these details helps Scouts be more prepared and respectful of the natural world during their Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure.

Fishing Equipment and Materials

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

For the fourth requirement of the Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure, AOL Scouts need to make a list of equipment and materials necessary for fishing. This list helps Scouts be prepared and have everything they need for a successful trip. Here are the essentials:

• Fishing Rod and Reel: Choose a rod and reel that are easy to handle and suitable for the type of fish you want to catch.
• Fishing Line: Make sure the line is strong enough for the fish you’re targeting.
• Hooks: Bring different sizes of hooks for different types of fish.
• Bait: Choose bait that is attractive to the type of fish you want to catch, such as worms, minnows, or artificial lures.
• Bobbers: These help you see when a fish bites.
• Sinkers: Use these to keep your bait down in the water.
• Needle Nose Pliers: Handy for removing hooks from fish.
• First Aid Kit: Always important for handling minor injuries.
• Sun Protection: Include sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect from the sun.
• Water and Snacks: Keep hydrated and energized during the trip.

Here is an option for fulfilling Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure requirement 4:

• Tackle Box Tune-Up
  • Cub Scouts learn what equipment and materials should be included in a personal tackle box. 
  • Supplies: tackle box, fishing license, rod, reel, fishing line, barbless hooks, bobbers, sinkers, swivels, bait, needle nose pliers, scissors, first aid kit, de-hooker, trash bag, Tackle Box Tune-Up worksheet, sharpened pencils
  • indoor, low energy, more than one week prep

Creating this list as part of the Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure ensures that Scouts are well-prepared and can focus on enjoying their fishing experience.

Fishing Knots

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

For the fifth requirement of the Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure, AOL Scouts need to learn how to tie a knot that attaches their hook to the fishing line. Knowing how to tie a strong, secure knot is crucial for successful fishing. Here are a few simple and effective knots that Scouts can learn:

• Improved Clinch Knot: This is one of the most popular fishing knots. It’s strong and works well with most types of fishing lines. It’s used to secure the fishing line to the hook. See how to tie this knot.
• Palomar Knot: This knot is simple and very strong. It’s excellent for tying on hooks, lures, or swivels. It’s also easy to tie, even for beginners. See how to tie this knot.
• Uni Knot: Also known as the Universal Knot, this is versatile and can be used for attaching the line to the hook, as well as tying two lines together. See how to tie this knot.

Here is an option for fulfilling Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure requirement 5:

• Four Fishing Knots
  • Cub Scouts practice fishing knots by doing stations around the meeting space.
  • Supplies: fishing line, small washers, scissors
  • indoor, moderate energy, 3 to 5 days prep

Scouts should practice these knots until they feel confident. Being able to tie a secure knot is an essential skill in the Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure. It ensures that the fishing trip is not only enjoyable but also successful.

Rod and Tackle

On your own, 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 Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure, AOL Scouts need to select and set up the right type of fishing rod and tackle for their fishing trip. It’s important to choose gear that matches the type of fishing they plan to do. Here are some options depending on different fishing conditions:

• Spinning Rod and Reel: This is a good choice for beginners. It’s easy to use and works well for lightweight baits and lures. It’s great for fishing in ponds, lakes, and rivers.
• Baitcasting Rod and Reel: This gear is suited for larger fish and heavier lures. It offers more precision and control but can be tricky to use. It’s best for experienced Scouts.
• Fly Fishing Rod and Reel: This type is specialized for fly fishing, where you use artificial flies as bait. It’s perfect for catching trout in streams or small rivers.
• Telescopic Rod: These rods are portable and can extend and collapse. They are great for Scouts who need to travel light or hike to their fishing spot.

After choosing their gear, Scouts should have an adult review it to ensure it’s suitable and safe for use. This step is crucial in the Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure to make sure everything is set for a successful fishing experience.

Here is an option for fulfilling Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure requirement 6:

• Hook, Line and Sinker
  • Cub Scouts have their fishing gear checked by an adult leader. 
  • Supplies: Completed Tackle Box Tune-Up worksheet, tackle box, fishing license, rod, reel, fishing line, barbless hooks, bobbers, sinkers, swivels, bait, needle nose pliers, scissors, first aid kit, de-hooker, trash bag, Scout Basic Essentials
  • indoor, low energy, 3 to 5 days prep

Go Fishing

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

The Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure requirement 7 involves spending at least one hour fishing while applying what you’ve learned about fish and fishing gear. Before starting, it’s important to understand local fishing guidelines and regulations to ensure a safe and legal fishing experience.

• Research local fishing regulations: Learn about fishing seasons, size limits, bag limits, and any specific rules for the body of water you’ll be fishing in.
• Gather fishing equipment: Prepare fishing gear such as rods, reels, bait, tackle, and a fishing license if required.
• Learn about fish species: Identify common fish species in your area, their habitats, feeding habits, and preferred baits.
• Practice fishing techniques: Practice casting, setting the hook, reeling, and safely handling fish.

Here are some more ideas for a fun fishing outing:

• Keep a fishing journal: Record details of your fishing adventure, including the location, weather conditions, fish species caught, and any memorable experiences.
• Practice catch and release: If allowed by local regulations, catch and release fish to help conserve fish populations and promote sustainable fishing practices.
• Try different fishing techniques: Experiment with different bait and lures, fishing depths, and casting techniques to increase your chances of catching fish.
• Share your experience: Take photos or videos of your fishing adventure and share them with your Scout den or pack during a meeting.

Here is an option for fulfilling Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure requirement 7:

• My Fishing Trip AOL
  • Cub Scouts go fishing for at least one hour.
  • Supplies: fishing poles, stocked tackle box, fishing net, bait or tackle, first aid kit, Cub Scout Six Essentials, Activity Consent Form 
  • requires travel, high energy, more than one week prep

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.
• Arrange for 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.
• Review Digital Safety and Online Scouting Activities.

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, remember 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.

More information

The Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure is a thrilling journey for Scouts to dive into the world of fishing while earning their Arrow of Light rank. This adventure is all about learning the ins and outs of fishing, understanding fish habitats, and mastering safe fishing practices. With its focus on the great outdoors, it’s an adventure that promises excitement and exploration.

AOL Scouts kick off this adventure by making a plan for their fishing excursion. They decide where to go fishing and what type of fish they aim to catch, setting the stage for an epic angling experience. The adventure then dives into the nitty-gritty details, with Scouts using the BSA SAFE Checklist to ensure they have all the necessary gear and equipment for a safe and successful fishing trip.

As Scouts prepare for their fishing adventure, they explore the diverse environments where fish might be found. From tranquil lakes to rushing rivers, they gain an appreciation for the habitats that support aquatic life. Armed with this knowledge, Scouts compile a list of fishing equipment needed for their expedition, ensuring they have everything from rods and reels to bait and tackle.

With their gear in hand, AOL Scouts learn essential fishing skills, such as tying knots and setting up fishing rods and tackle. An adult reviews their equipment to ensure it’s ready for action. Then, it’s time to cast their lines and spend at least an hour fishing, following local regulations and guidelines. Whether they reel in a big catch or simply enjoy the serenity of the water, Scouts immerse themselves in the joys of fishing and outdoor exploration.

The Arrow of Light Fishing Adventure is about fostering a love for the great outdoors and learning valuable skills that last a lifetime. Through hands-on experience and outdoor exploration, Scouts embark on an unforgettable journey that leaves them hooked on adventure.