Recorded at the 2026 Hunt Fish Podcast Summit at Pintail Hunting Club in Garwood, Texas, this episode of the Mudfish Adventures Podcast features Michael Scherer, Program Director for the nonprofit organization Fishing's Future and a newly inducted member of the Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame. 

Fishing's Future is dedicated to reconnecting families with the outdoors by using fishing as the gateway to conservation, education, and family time on the water. Through family fish camps, school programs, and community events, the organization has helped introduce hundreds of thousands of people to fishing, encouraging families to learn and experience the outdoors together. 

In this conversation, Michael shares the story behind the mission of Fishing's Future, how he became involved with angler education through Texas Parks and Wildlife, and how a simple idea—getting families fishing together—has grown into a nationwide movement with chapters across the United States. 

The discussion also covers the importance of volunteers, outdoor education programs in schools, and initiatives designed to inspire the next generation of conservation-minded anglers. Michael explains how programs like family fish camps, youth ambassador programs, and interactive education events help ensure that kids not only catch their first fish—but continue fishing with their families for years to come. 

Michael also reflects on the honor of being inducted into the Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, recognizing decades of dedication to fishing education and community outreach.

From mentoring young anglers to building programs that reach thousands of families, this episode highlights how fishing can bring people together and inspire lifelong connections to the outdoors.

Topics covered in this episode

• The mission of Fishing's Future

• Introducing families and kids to fishing

• Angler education through Texas Parks and Wildlife

• Family fish camps and youth fishing programs

• The role of volunteers in outdoor education

• Fishing as a tool for conservation and mentorship

• Being inducted into the Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame

Whether you're an angler, parent, educator, or conservationist, this episode is a reminder that teaching someone to fish can change their life—and the future of the outdoors.