Miss Pursuit caught up for a quick chat with Amanda Brannon, Founder and Executive Director of the Women’s Fishing Federation to learn more about this new non-profit working to equip women anglers with the confidence and education to succeed on the water.
What is the Women's Fishing Federation?
The Women's Fishing Federation is a non-profit organization created for women who love to fish, or who are interested in learning. Our mission is to provide education, camaraderie, and support to women anglers everywhere from all skill levels. Through our events, resources, and community initiatives, we strive to inspire women to become more confident in their fishing skills and to build lasting friendships within the fishing community. Together, we CAST OUT THE IMPOSSIBLE AND REEL IN POTENTIAL and, create memories that will last a lifetime.
How did the Women's Fishing Federation get started?
The Women's Fishing Federation was established as a platform for women in the sport of fishing in 2019 by Amanda Brannon, Mel Isaacs, and Kristine Fischer. After meeting at the Kayak Bass Fishing National Championship in 2017, the three of us began to converse through online women’s social media groups. Early 2019, curious as to why we were not seeing an increase in women participating in tournaments, we decided to host an in-person event. Our first event was held in October 2019 in Forsyth, MO on Lake Taneycomo. Over fifty ladies from Texas to New York attended. This was the beginning of building a community to help shatter barriers and build a support network for women who are passionate about fishing.
What is the structure of the Women's Fishing Federation? Are there chapters?
The Women’s Fishing Federation is governed by a Board of Directors. Our current board members are Mel Isaacs, Secretary, Susie Roloff, Treasurer, and myself as President. Annual membership dues help support the organization's administration costs. In 2024 we are working on forming state chapters with the first chapter launching in Texas soon.
How do women get involved?
You can join The Women’s Fishing Federation on our website.
Your $50 membership due includes: WFF Decals (2), Casting Out the Impossible ~ Reeling in Potential wristband, early registration to annual event(s), access to educational webinars, access to a members-only private Facebook page, access to members-only discounts, $10.00 off WFF Monthly Online Challenge Series (Bass and Redfish) Entry Fee. Questions regarding membership can be emailed to our membership Coordinator, Carol Wells, [email protected].
Why was starting this organization important to you and the co-founders?
Although we each came from different backgrounds, we shared the same passion to help women feel confident and secure on the water.
What kind of fishing does this organization focus on?
Until this year, we have focused on freshwater fishing. Our first saltwater fishing event will be held in June of this year. Make sure to subscribe to our page to get updates about all events in 2024.
What sets the Women's Fishing Federation apart from similar organizations?
What is notable about the WFF is that not only do our events span across five to six days focusing on education, camaraderie, and support we also offer bimonthly educational webinars and monthly online fishing tournaments. Our goal is to provide individual instruction, empowerment, and inspiration to women of all ages with a passion for pursuing the outdoors.
Who is involved?
Meet our Team: Amanda Brannon, Founder and Executive Director, Mel Isaacs, Founder and Tournament Director, Susie Roloff, Education & Safety Coordinator, Katie Backa, Website Administrator and Educator, Cilla Johnson, Event Coordinator and Carol Wells, Membership Coordinator.
Anyone looking to sponsor or get involved with The Women’s Fishing Federation may reach out to Amanda at [email protected].
