CFACT Collegians Sophie Fuller and Markus Fee of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga recently took students off campus and out onto Chickamauga Lake for an afternoon of fishing, fellowship, and hands-on conservation.
The fishing trip brought together 10 attendees on April 28, including UTC students and several community members, for three hours on the water in Chattanooga. With rods in hand and CFACT’s conservation message at the center of the day, students learned responsible fishing practices, picked up tactical fishing tips, and discussed how private hatcheries play a vital role in maintaining native fish species.
By the end of the trip, the group had caught two bluegill, natives of Tennessee waters, and made plenty of memories along the shoreline. More importantly, attendees left with a clearer understanding of how outdoor traditions like fishing connect directly to responsible environmental stewardship.
For CFACT, events like this show students that conservation is not confined to a classroom lecture or government program. It is lived out by ordinary Americans who understand, enjoy, and care for the natural world around them. Fishing, hunting, habitat management, and other outdoor activities all play a role in maintaining healthy ecosystems and teaching young people to value the land and water they use.
Sophie said the event offered exactly that kind of meaningful experience.
“The event was a fun and meaningful way to connect with others while learning how essential fishing is to preserving a balanced ecosystem!” she said.
The trip also gave Sophie and Markus a chance to introduce more students to CFACT’s mission in a relaxed and memorable setting. According to the event summary, attendees responded positively and left more interested in the organization’s work. After the fishing wrapped up, the group gathered for a photo with CFACT merchandise and the CFACT flag, closing out the day with a strong showing of Collegian fellowship.
With events like this, CFACT collegians are proving that young Americans still value practical conservation, outdoor recreation, and the freedom to enjoy nature responsibly.
