The ZEBCO School of Fish, recognized by many as the leader in kids fishing education, announced record breaking results for their just completed 2026 season. 719 "water ready" youth graduated from the program in 2026, eclipsing the previous record of 707 kids attending in 2018. The program also hosted 31 schools this season, which ties the 2018 previous high as well. 2026 was the 14th year for the ZEBCO School of Fish.
"School of Fish continues to be very popular amongst kids, adults, and class hosts as well as the various groups and clubs that help present the local schools," said Mike Frisch, one of the organization's co-founders. "Breaking attendance records in our 14th season shows the continued popularity of our program, but more importantly is a strong indicator that fishing is still exciting, fun, and rewarding for kids," Frisch continued. "Plus, fishing is a great family activity, we see that at our events where parents, grandparents and other adults spend meaningful time together with kids learning about and enjoying a great lifelong activity."
Community Education departments in schools across Minnesota have been very popular as ZEBCO School of Fish hosts. Plus, wildlife clubs, fishing clubs, and civic organizations have stepped in to sponsor the schools at the local level as well. Frisch said the organization is busy planning for 2027 as well. "Absolutely, we'll be back in 2027, we're excited about the continued enthusiasm we saw at our 2026 schools and plan to carry on for years to come."
Groups interested in hosting a ZEBCO School of Fish can reach out to Frisch by email at schooloffish@outlook.com. Plus, more information can be gained by visiting the organization's website by clicking on the School of Fish tab at www.fishingthemidwest.com.
Frisch concluded by lauding the program's sponsors in helping grow the ZEBCO School of Fish. "Our supporters, many of whom have been with us from day one, continue to see great value in exposing kids and their families to fishing and the great outdoors. We wouldn't be here today without our sponsors," Frisch concluded.
In addition to ZEBCO'S title sponsorship, other School of Fish sponsors include G3 Boats, Yamaha, Hannay's Marine, Soderholm Insurance, KLN Family Brands, ShoreMaster, Strike King, Lew's, Women Anglers of Minnesota, Nelson Auto Center, Distinctive Cabinet Design, Thill, and Fishing the Midwest. Organizations looking to partner with the ZEBCO School of Fish in helping bring fishing education to more kids can reach out to Frisch at schooloffish@outlook.com as well.