Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What are the basics I need to know?
A: To join the team you need a parner and a boat (between you and your partner). We hold more than a dozen events throughout the spring/summer/fall that range from fun, laid back in-house tournaments to more competitive events against other conference teams. Most fishing tournaments are on Mondays (high school) or Tuesday evenings (juniors).
Q: How do I sign up?
A: Registration for the 2026 season will open on Februrary 24th. Sign up will close March 15th. Information about sign up will be accessible via Community Educations ELEYO sign up page and at our February 24th kick off meeting at 6:30 PM in the FLAHS auditorium.
We do hold open events throughout the fall/winter for interested anglers to check out. Stay tuned to our Facebook and Instagram for information about those events. Any potential anglers are welcome to come check out the action at any of our in-house or conference event weigh-ins.
Q: Do you fish for everything?
A: We are primarily a bass fishing team. While we hold events that may provide opprtunities to fish for other species but, 99% of our competitions and activities are bass focused.
We do have some anglers that compete in the Muskies Inc tournaments however, this is a seperate endeavor that is supported by the team but not managed by the team.
Q: Do I need my own boat?
A: You or your partner need access to a 16' or longer boat that has a working live-well with an aerator (not a cooler) and motor. You'll also need an adult who is 18 or older to drive the boat.
Q: I'm in a spring/summer sport, can I do the fishing team?
A: Yes! We're very flexible and have options for all types of fisherman. Our "in-house" tournaments typically run from 5:00-8:30PM on Monday (HS only) and Tuesday (JR only) nights throughout the summer. You do not need to participate in every tournament to be on the team.
If you're interested in joining our competition team there are some try-out commitments in the spring. Those take place typically on Sunday evenings. Competition team tournaments (three of them) are on Mondays from 7A - 1P starting once school gets out. Not everyone is required to join the competition team.
Q: Can anyone join the team?
A: We take all levels of fisherman from beginner to advanced!
Q: How old do I have to be to be on the team?
A: If you are going into 6th grade in the following school year you can join. Example: current school year 5th graders can sign up as they'll be 6th graders in the fall.
Q: Do I need my own gear?
A: Yes, you'll need at least one fishing pole and reel. If you need assistance getting fishing gear reach out to coach AJ at flfhscoach@gmail.com.
Q: I'd like to purchase some gear what should I have in my arsenal?
A: It's all about what you like to do! Coach recommends having at least one rod, a 6'6" M spinning rod paired with at least a 2500 size reel will do the trick. If you have budget for two rods a 7' MH casting rod and a 7:3:1 or similar gear ratio reel is a great addition.
Forest Lake Fishing has a partnership with Mossy Creek Custom Rods this is a great place to get a rod. Owner Ryan Kieke can build you a quality rod that will make your money go much further than the big box store rods.
For tackle coach recommends a wacky rigged stick bait for shallow water, a drop shot or neko rig for all depths, and a Texas rig with a worm or creature bait for all depths. These are great starter baits that catch fish all year round!
Q: I'd like to talk to a representative from the team to ask specific questions, who do I contact?
A: Reach out to coach AJ (HS head coach) at flfhscoach@gmail.com or coach Mike (JR head coach) at flfjrcoach@gmail.com
Interested in Joining? Check out some of our info below!