The Anglers' Legacy program has surpassed the 50,000 Pledge milestone, the Recreational Boating Fishing Foundation announced today, approaching its two-year anniversary mark. The program, which asks avid anglers to introduce newcomers to boating and fishing, continues to build momentum as new partnerships are developed with fishing clubs and membership organizations, sports media, outdoor retailers and manufacturers, state fish and wildlife agencies, industry leaders and outdoor enthusiasts nationwide.

"The Anglers' Legacy program has reached a true milestone by signing up more than 50,000 Ambassadors, boaters and anglers who will help protect the legacy of these sports," said RBFF President and CEO Frank Peterson. "Our goal for the year is to sign up an additional 85,000 new anglers to the program. We will break new ground this year, with the continued growth of the program adding substantial funds for conservation efforts." According to a 2007 survey of Ambassadors, most take more than four people a year fishing and also generate an initial $120 in fishing tackle and equipment sales, $166 in boating supplies and accessories and purchase 3.2 fishing licenses.

 "At 50,000 Pledges, this means the program may have already generated $12 million for the boating and fishing industries and 88,000 new fishing licenses for states," said Peterson. Launched in May 2006, Anglers' Legacy asks avid anglers to share their passion for fishing and to visit AnglersLegacy.org where they're asked to "Take the Pledge" – promising to take one new person fishing each year. RBFF will be adding a social networking element for Ambassadors and online visitors in the months ahead.