The ZEBCO School of Fish, recognized by many as the leader in kids fishing education, is off to an impressive start in 2026. This past week, the program presented its 16th event of the season and went over the 400 mark in kids attending. Plus, nearly 300 parents have attended ZEBCO School of Fish classes so far this year. The program still has 17 more 2026 events scheduled.
“The ZEBCO School of Fish continues to be very popular amongst kids and adults too,” said Mike Frisch, one of the organization’s co-founders. “We teach kids how to find fishing spots, find fish, and how to catch ‘em,” Frisch continued. “Plus, our students learn to tie a fishing knot and rig and use a slip-bobber set-up. And they leave class with a ZEBCO rod and reel, tackle box with tackle, and more.”
Kids, parents, and others often rave about their ZEBCO School of Fish experience. Here’s a partial quote from a parent of a recent youth attendee: “Hello! I wanted to share some veryyyy positive feedback on the ZEBCO School of Fish program that was held today. RAVE reviews from my 3rd grader who attended. It was engaging, he learned a ton, and was thrilled …”
Started in 2012 in Alexandria, MN, the ZEBCO School of Fish is now in its 14th year and has presented 325 schools, graduating over 7,000 water-ready kids, with around 3,500 adults having attended too.
Community Education departments in schools across Minnesota have been very popular as ZEBCO School of Fish hosts. Plus, wildlife clubs, fishing clubs, and civic organizations have stepped in to sponsor the events at the local level as well.
Finally, Frisch lauded the program’s sponsors in helping grow the program. “Our supporters, many of whom have been with us from day one, continue to see great value in exposing kids and their families to fishing and the great outdoors. We wouldn’t be here today without our sponsors,” Frisch concluded.
In addition to ZEBCO’S title sponsorship, other School of Fish sponsors include G3 Boats, Yamaha, Hannay’s Marine, Soderholm Insurance Services, KLN Family Brands, ShoreMaster, Strike King, Lew’s, Women Anglers of Minnesota, Thill, Nelson Auto Center, Distinctive Cabinet Design, Artie’s Bait & Tackle, and Fishing the Midwest. More information can be gained by visiting the organization’s website by clicking on the School of Fish tab at www.fishingthemidwest.com.
