Forestville, WI- National Professional Anglers Association membership, now at 510 members, has more than doubled over the past four years. Fishing tackle and marine industry supporting partners have increased seven times, from nine in 2008 to 64 today. NPAA executive director Pat Neu said, "The Jan. 4-6 Annual Conference will set records with more than 250 members and supporting partners in expected to be in attendance ."
There is still time to pre-register or show up at the door of the Minneapolis event, and Neu said, "Sometimes fishermen wait until the last minute to make plans, but since the $75 conference fee includes so much, I recommend they show up for what I know will be the most educational and inspirational (and biggest) conference ever." Attendees receive entry into all workshop sessions, keynote presentations, will meet more than 50 industry leaders, receive a ticket to the Future Angler Foundation Saturday banquet, a luncheon, and a chance to share their passion about the sport. He added, "Attendees will learn how they can each 'Preserve and Protect' the sport we all love."
The Future Angler Foundation banquet hosted by Yamaha Outboards and Skeeter Boats will be a fund-raising benefit. The FAF mission is to support organizations like the NPAA whose members actively grow the fishing base by conducting educational seminars and training for youth. In 2012, NPAA "Future Angler Events" impacted more than 8,700 youngsters and 4,000 parents.