SKIFF

Why SKIFF?

As ordinary citizens, we seldom get a chance to give back to our service men and women who sacrifice so much for us. If given the opportunity it is especially important that we make a contribution to the lives of children who are now living without a mother or father at home. Having a quality role model in their young lives is crucial and we think this program will give them not only a day of fun that they may be missing from not having a parent to take them fishing but also expose them to the founder of the program, an ex-military man who sees first hand the impact of losing or missing a parent can have on a child. Please join Austin Fly Fishers in supporting this great cause; we cannot do enough for these children and their families.

Who is involved in SKIFF?

Austin Fly Fishers raises the necessary funds to sponsor all the fishing trips. Bob Maindelle, a local fishing guide and children’s pastor serving the Ft. Hood area, will coordinate the fishing trips for the military families. Various sources serving the military families in the area recommend children for the trips. Bob will offer guided fishing trips in his boat on local lakes. The fishing is provided at no cost to the families. The parents are invited and are always welcome on any trip.

How frequently are these trips provided?

Weather and school permitting, Bob schedules as many trips as possible throughout the year; typically more take place during the summer months. Our goal is to take 100 kids fishing every year.

What is a SKIFF fishing trip like?

Bob has years of experience taking children on fishing trips. He recognizes the need to keep the fishing activities at an age-appropriate level and understands that all children have a fairly limited attention span. Accordingly, the trips are action-packed from start to finish. The children picked up at their home or meet at lake side, accompanied by a parent or guardian, all are welcomed aboard, fitted with life jackets, given some basic safety instruction, followed by instruction on how to use the fishing equipment. The party then shoves off and hunts for fish. They fish for whatever is biting best at that point in the season be it perch, crappie, white bass, largemouth or catfish. Quality digital photos are taken to record each child’s catch; copies are sent to Austin Fly Fishers where they are placed in our newsletter and posted on its web site. In addition, he introduces them to the concept of catch-and-release by having the children return their quarry to the water unharmed while also educating them on water conservation issues.