Alexandria, VA, May 25, 2011 –

The Take Me Fishing™ campaign knows that unforgettable memories are rarely made in front of the TV or while playing the latest video game simulating “real-life.” That’s one reason why during National Fishing and Boating Week – June 4 – 12 – Take Me Fishing™ is urging kids, families and outdoor adventurers to celebrate summer the “old-fashioned way” – by getting outside and making some real memories on the water.  To sweeten the pot, they’re even offering up a trip for four in the ‘Memories on the Water’ video contest on Facebook!

“Boating and fishing are the kinds of activities that produce some treasured – and exciting – moments that people remember for a lifetime,” said Frank Peterson, President and CEO of the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation. “That’s why we’ve developed the ‘Memories on the Water’ contest to show others just how much fun boating and fishing can be. It truly is a national pastime. By launching the contest during National Fishing and Boating Week, we hope to inspire others to join in the celebration and take advantage of many of the events being held nationwide, as well as the free fishing days many states have. It’s also a time to reconnect with friends and family and learn how fishing and boating participation contributes to conservation efforts. “

To jumpstart the week, the Take Me Fishing™ ‘Memories on the Water’ contest will run from June 2 – July 1, 2011. During that time visitors to the Take Me Fishing™ Facebook Page will have the opportunity to submit a short video – new or old – showcasing a memorable moment on the water. The videos can be cute, thrilling, sentimental or just plain funny, but should show friends and family enjoying either boating or fishing related activities. Judges will then select up to 10 videos to be voted on by fans of the page. One grand prize winner will be selected, earning a trip for four to their choice of fishing and boating destinations: Orlando, Fla., Lake Michigan, Yellowstone in Mont., or New Orleans, La. Randomly drawn prizes will also be awarded throughout the contest’s duration to those who have submitted videos.

National Fishing and Boating Week offers plenty of opportunities for those interested in taking out a boat or tossing in a line. With free fishing days in 37 of the 50 states and thousands of places to boat and fish, most people are only a few miles from the nearest river, lake, stream or ocean. And, what many people don’t realize is that a portion of all fishing bait, tackle, license, as well as boat supply and registrations, goes toward local and national conservation efforts. That means boating and fishing isn’t just fun, it helps sustain resources that promote safe and responsible use of our nation’s waters.

For a listing of places to boat and fish, local events taking place during National Fishing and Boating Week and information about free fishing days, visit TakeMeFishing.org. Also, be sure to follow Take Me Fishing™ on Twitter and Facebook for updates on the week as well as complete details on the contest. Whether it’s a freshwater pond or a saltwater paradise, TakeMeFishing.org has all the information friends, families and outdoor adventurers need to make the most of their day on the water.
About RBFF
RBFF is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to increase participation in recreational angling and boating, thereby protecting and restoring the nation’s aquatic natural resources. RBFF helps people discover, share and protect the legacy of boating and fishing through national outreach programs including the Take Me Fishing™ campaign and Anglers’ Legacy™.