PHOTO COURTESY OF WEST MARINE
The inaugural Women Making Waves event series organized via a partnership between West Marine and Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation’s consumer-facing Take Me Fishing brand is happening each Wednesday in April, with free, interactive classes open to the public that are designed to support female participation in fishing and boating. The series will also promote awareness of how purchasing a fishing license or registering a boat impacts conservation efforts.
“Interest in fishing and boating increased during the COVID-19 pandemic as families wanted to spend more time in outdoor, open-air environments,” says Eric Kufel, West Marine CEO. “Time spent on and around the water provides a number of important mental health benefits, so our goal with the Women Making Waves class series is to ensure these new fans stay engaged for the long term — and for them to encourage their female friends to hop onboard, too.”
Leading social media influencers, or Wave Makers, will host demo events every Wednesday beginning at 6 p.m. local time at West Marine marine centers. Class space is limited, so RSVP to secure a spot.
“West Marine has been so supportive of Take Me Fishing’s Women Making Waves initiative, encouraging the continued growth of women in fishing and boating,” adds Rachel Auslander, RBFF director of partnerships & development. “These events provide a fantastic opportunity for our female presenters to share their fishing skills and knowledge of the local waterways with the public, both in person and online. It is our hope that their presence inspires other women and girls to get out on the water.”
To learn more, visit westmarine.com or register for classes here.
