Future Fisherman Fundraiser Benefits Youth Programs and Holiday Shoppers

The Future Fisherman Foundation announces its annual online auction is scheduled for Dec. 1 - 8, and once again boasts an impressive lineup of outdoor products and guided fishing trips, fresh and saltwater, with the door still open for more to be added. The important fundraiser for the non-profit organization is managed on eBay and helps support Future Fisherman's "Ensuring the Future of Fishing" mission and its legendary programs like "Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs" and "Physh Ed." The auction opens at 8 a.m. CST, Dec. 1. Participation is easy, requiring only an online visit to www.FutureFisherman.org, clicking on the "F3 Auctions" tab, and following the links to the eBay non-profit auction site for viewing and bidding on Future Fisherman's list of items. A top prize repeating from last year's successful event is a lunch outing with Ranger Boats' icons Forrest and Nina Wood in Flippin, Ark. Accompanying the lunch package is a half-day fishing trip on nearby Bull Shoals Lake, with the guide handpicked by the Ranger founder. "The number and quality of fishing trips from all across the country on the auction list are amazing, with many being hosted by top professional anglers and fishing celebrities," said Future Fisherman's Mark Gintert. "The donated products are equally impressive, ranging from lure assortments to rod and reel outfits to foul weather gear to top-of-the-line electronics. With holiday season gift-buying top of mind for many right now, this is definitely a put-it-on-the-calendar activity." The Future Fisherman auction closes at 5 p.m. CST, Dec. 8. Gintert said the prizes are awarded in a timely manner after the auction's end so that those who have purchased them as gifts will have them in time for Christmas. Gintert also said the Foundation is still accepting donations for the auction too. Those interested in providing fishing trips, products and memorabilia can make contact by e-mailing info@futurefisherman.org. All proceeds from the auction help the Future Fisherman Foundation's efforts to engage youth in positive lifestyle programs such as fishing and getting them involved in the great outdoors. Established in 1986, the Future Fisherman Foundation unites the sportfishing industry and a nationwide network of state outdoor educators, national conservation groups and youth organizations. Although youth focused, the efforts help people of all ages have safe and enjoyable fishing experiences while also fostering conservation ethics. The Future Fisherman Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.