As the calendar turns to a new year, many of us resolve to improve our physical and mental wellbeing by leading a healthier lifestyle.
One way to a better you is to resolve to spend more time outdoors. Whether walking, biking, jogging or fishing, being outside in green and blue spaces has shown to increase life expectancy, improve sleep quality and reduce stress. As avid anglers, we advocate picking up a rod and reel and going fishing with family or friends; it’s an activity suitable for all ages.
Fishing combines relaxation with adventure while providing a unique way to appreciate the great outdoors. Beyond its recreational value, fishing fosters patience, preparatory skills, focus and environmental stewardship.
Last year, The Fishing Foundation and Signal Cleveland celebrated one year of our community partnership to publish “Hooked,” a monthly comic strip that follows the humorous and heartfelt adventures of a group of teens who form a bass fishing club in Cleveland. “Hooked” provides practical tips on fishing and outdoor exploration, encouraging readers to embrace the sport.
“The comic not only brings humor into people’s lives but also teaches valuable lessons about fishing and the environment,” said Lila Mills, Editor-in-Chief of Signal Cleveland. “It’s been a perfect fit for our mission to engage and educate the community.”
About The Fishing Foundation
“Hooked” is produced by longtime Cleveland anglers Dennis Knowles and Gail Grizzell, founders of The Fishing Foundation (TFF), a non-profit organization in Northeast Ohio that takes teens fishing. Through events, mentorship programs, and hands-on training, TFF provides unique opportunities for individuals from underserved communities to connect with nature and each other.
Beyond instruction, the foundation provides participants with rods, reels, bait, tackle and even a souvenir T-shirt. At each event, attendees enjoy lunch and refreshments while building skills and confidence. And as a lasting memento, each child gets to keep their rod and reel. TFF’s flagship project, “Learn to Fish: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginning Anglers,” is a guidebook that equips beginner anglers with the knowledge they need to succeed at fishing.
This year, why not resolve to join the thousands who have discovered the joys of fishing? Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a complete beginner, The Fishing Foundation, and the adventures of “Hooked,” can help you get started. Spend time in Cleveland’s beautiful parks, lakes and rivers and experience the benefits of connecting with nature.
The great outdoors is waiting for you—make 2025 the year you get “hooked” on fishing!
The Fishing Foundation
About Hooked
“Hooked” is a new comic strip based on characters taken from the book “Learn To Fish, A Step-By-Step Guide For Beginning Anglers.” It features a multicultural cast of teens who love to fish and decide to form a fishing club in Cleveland. See “Hooked” monthly right here on the Signal Cleveland website produced in partnership with Dennis James Knowles and Gail Ann Grizzell of Cleveland’s The Fishing Foundation.
Ohio does not require those under 16 to have a fishing license. Read more on Ohio fishing laws here.
