National directory
First fish programs
Requirements, rewards, evidence rules, and the official application link for 8 programs. Details are as of 2026; confirm on the official page before you submit.
Alaska 1
| Program | Organizer | Type | Reward | Cost | Online |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| My First FishFirst hook-and-line catch in AK | ADF&G | First fish | Certificate | Free | No |
California 1
| Program | Organizer | Type | Reward | Cost | Online |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California Fishing PassportStamp book for 150 species; awards for milestones | CDFW | First fish, Slam or challenge | Stamps, awards | Free (license) | No (stamping agents) |
Iowa 1
| Program | Organizer | Type | Reward | Cost | Online |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First FishAny first fish | Iowa DNR | First fish | Certificate | Free | Yes |
Missouri 1
| Program | Organizer | Type | Reward | Cost | Online |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Fish CertificateAny first fish | MDC | First fish | Certificate | Free | Yes |
New Jersey 1
| Program | Organizer | Type | Reward | Cost | Online |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skillful Angler Program (Adult, Junior, C&R, First Fish, Specialist/Master/Elite, Slams)43 species; 30 days; weighed by authorized agent (adult/junior) | NJDEP Fish & Wildlife | First fish, Slam or challenge, Trophy and master angler, Youth | Certificate plus patch | Free | Email/mail |
Rhode Island 1
| Program | Organizer | Type | Reward | Cost | Online |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Children's First Fish CertificateFirst fish | RIDEM | First fish, Youth | Signed certificate plus gift | Free | No (mail) |
Texas 1
| Program | Organizer | Type | Reward | Cost | Online |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angler Recognition Program (Big Fish, Elite Angler, First Fish, Outstanding Angler, C&R and water-body records)Species trophy minimums; Elite = 5 species lifetime | TPWD | First fish, State record, Trophy and master angler | Certificates | Free | Yes |
National 1
| Program | Organizer | Type | Reward | Cost | Online |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Take Me Fishing First Catch CentersLearn-to-fish events | RBFF | First fish, Youth | First-catch recognition | Free | n/a |