Free Learn to Fish Course!
The IGFA's Intro to Fishing course offers an immersive curriculum covering angling basics and safety, aquatic and marine biology, fish anatomy, environmental stewardship, and more! The goal of the IGFA Online Angling Education Resources is to provide young and/or novice anglers with a strong foundation of angling knowledge in a comfortable, virtual setting that will give them the confidence to get out and go fishing in a responsible and ethical way. Although it is designed for youth or beginner anglers, anyone can learn more about fishing! The IGFA's Intro to Fishing course is the first of several online resources planned for release and presented on a fun, interactive learning platform.
Rod/Reel Combo and Lure Giveaways
Quarterly Raffle Opportunity
We'll continue the quarterly drawing into 2026, so the last drawing will be in December! The IGFA will randomly select one (1) lucky student who has completed the Intro to Fishing course to receive a rod and reel combo and lures from our corporate partners as a "thank you" for completing the course and as an incentive to keep fishing! The winner may choose between the freshwater package or the saltwater package. Quarterly reminders will be sent via email to all students. Enroll for free, complete the course, and get entered to win!
Course Chapters
Intro to Fishing
Course Curriculum
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01
The Fish
Show details- What Makes a Fish a Fish?
- Eat or Be Eaten!
- Quick Review of Fish
- Intro to Fish Identification - Which Fish is Which?
- Freshwater Fish Identification
- Saltwater Fish Identification
- The Blue Marlin
- Fresh and Salt Water Fish Identification
- Practice Your New Fish ID Skills!
- Print and Color Your Own Game Fish!
- Fun Fish Facts!
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02
The Habitat
Show details- Where do Fish Live?
- Types of Aquatic Habitats
- The Importance of Plants
- Why are Habitats Important?
- Quick Review of Fish Habitat
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03
The Basics
Show details- The Angler and the Gear
- How to Rig a Spincast Combo
- How to Rig a Spinning Combo
- Quick Review of the Gear
- How to Tie a Clinch Knot
- How to Tie a Uni Knot
- How to Tie a Palomar Knot
- Download IGFA's Fishing Knots Handout to Practice!
- Natural Baits and How to Rig Them
- Artificial Baits and How to Rig Them
- Rigging Baits for Saltwater
- Quick Review
- Angling Safety Tips
- Safe Boating Tips
- How to Cast a Spincast
- How to Cast a Spinning
- Quick Review of Safety and Casting
- How to Catch a Fish!
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04
The Ethical Angler
Show details- Who is an Ethical Angler?
- What is Conservation?
- How to Release a Fish Using a De-Hooking Tool
- How to Release a Fish Properly Without Using a De-Hooking Tool
- Kick Plastic with Costa Sunglasses
- Review of Ethical Angling Practices
- TakeMeFishing.org explains the benefits of fishing licenses.
- Quick Review of Fishing Licenses
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05
The IGFA
Show details- Who is the International Game Fish Association (IGFA)?
- Learn more about the IGFA's Education Department!
- Learn how to submit an IGFA World Record
- Learn more about the IGFA Great Marlin Race - our signature conservation program
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06
Wrap Up and Keep Learning!
Show details- Quick Survey for the IGFA
- Junior Ranger - Let's Go Fishing Activity Book
- Thank you!
FREE Digital Membership!
Upon completion of the course, students will receive a Certificate of Recognition and a PROMO CODE for a free, IGFA Digital Membership ($20 USD Value). Get exclusive “Members Only” online access to: the IGFA World Record database, How-To & Historical Videos, World Record Game Fishes archives, the monthly International Angler digital publication, and discounts on tackle, trips, charters, and more from IGFA partners. Upgrade to an Individual Membership and receive the IGFA World Record Game Fishes book!
The IGFA is a nonprofit organization committed to the conservation of game fish and the promotion of responsible, ethical angling practices through science, education, rule making, record keeping and recognition of outstanding accomplishments in the field of angling.