Fishing and the Trail to Eagle
Fishing is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Fishing Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 6 main requirements for Fishing. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Do the following:
- a.Explain the most likely hazards you may encounter while fishing and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards.
- b.Discuss the prevention and treatment of health concerns that could occur while fishing.
- 2
Discuss the importance of following fishing regulations and the principles of catch and release.
- 3
Demonstrate the proper use and care of fishing tackle.
- 4
Demonstrate the proper use of two different types of fishing equipment.
- 5
Catch at least one fish and demonstrate how to properly handle and release it.
- 6
Find out about three career opportunities in fisheries management.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Fishing Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Fishing, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Fishing is usually earned summer camp or outdoor event. Summer camp and merit badge weekends are the most common places to finish it.
3. Budget the time
Expect about 2 weeks for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 8 Fishing requirements for you.
Fishing Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Fishing merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Fishing is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Fishing merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Fishing in about 2 weeks, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Fishing merit badge?
Fishing is most often earned summer camp or outdoor event. Any registered merit badge counselor for Fishing can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Fishing merit badge have?
Fishing has 6 main requirements with 2 sub-requirements, for 8 items in total.
