Angler Recruitment, Retention and Reactivation Grant Program

Angler Recruitment, Retention and Reactivation Grant Program

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Last Updated: January 02, 2026

Summary

The Angler Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation Grant Program, managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, aims to increase angling participation among diverse adult audiences in Wisconsin. This program provides financial support to eligible organizations for activities that foster a safe and ethical fishing experience. By promoting community engagement and education, the grant seeks to enhance the number of active anglers, ensuring sustainable fishing practices and preserving Wisconsin's natural resources.

Overview

About the DNR In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities. Angler Recruitment, Retention and Reactivation Grant Program The Angler Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation (Angler R3) grant program provides financial assistance to partners who conduct Angler R3 programs and activities in Wisconsin. Funding is provided through the Dingell-Johnson Sportfish Restoration Act, a federal aid program. The goals of the Angler R3 grant program are to grow the numbers of anglers in Wisconsin and expand angling participation among adults, particularly from non-traditional audiences. To achieve these goals, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will award cost-sharing funds to community-based organizations, community centers, government agencies, Wisconsin tribes, colleges, universities and schools to ensure the education and development of safe and ethical adult anglers.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Grant awards may be up to 75% share of total eligible project costs.Eligible Applicants Include: Wisconsin counties, towns, villages and cities; Wisconsin universities, colleges and technical schools; other Wisconsin governmental units, as defined in s. 66.299, Wis. Stats.; Wisconsin tribes; Wisconsin school districts; community-based organizations (i.e., nature centers, social service agencies, public health centers - particularly those that serve communities of color); food security and local foods organizations; and most, if not all, conservation organizations (i.e., local rod and gun clubs, sporting organizations, local chapters, and national organizations).Eligible Items Include: salaries, hourly wages, and fringe benefits for applicant employees; consultant services; purchased services – printing, mailings, room rental; other purchased services (specify in grant application); office or project supplies (specify in grant application); project's programming supplies, such as fishing gear (specify in grant application); background checks of mentors and instructors (required); equipment purchase (defined as items that cost $5,000 or more); hourly equipment rental changes (specify in grant application); and other items to be specified in grant application such as bus or van rental to transport classes for fishing outings.

Ineligibility

Ineligible Items Include: costs incurred before the start date or after the end date of the grant agreement; cost of fishing licenses for mentors/instructors and participants; cost of routine fishing site maintenance including, but not limited to, mowing grass, painting signs and debris removal; costs for which payment have been or will be received under another federal funding source; fines and penalties due to violation of or failure to comply with federal, state, or local laws and regulations; applicant's ordinary operating expenses, such as salaries and expenses of public officials that are not directly related to the project; boat, auto, trucks, or office furniture purchases; capital improvement projects; and fee simple or easement land acquisitions. fish stocking