For the last five years the GJFO has participated with the Colorado Sportsmen Wildlife Fund, the Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW), and others in presenting the Pathway to Fishing Program to youngsters up to 15 years of age on the Western Slope. The program consists of a 12 station "hands on", walk through situation which lasts about two hours. Included are lessons in safety, fishing basics, aquatic ecology, local fishing opportunities, knot-tying, fish biology and habitat, casting, ethical fishing, and selection of baits and lures. For those catching their first fish there is a 'First Fish Award, also, when the program is held lakeside there is a period of fishing available to the participants. Parents are encouraged to accompany their children through the various stations. Each youngster receives a small tackle box with fishing equipment, a fish workbook, and a visor or pair of sunglasses. For those youngsters who do not have a rod and reel we provide them with one.