Justin Wiggins is the coordinator of the Fisheries Division - Connecticut Aquatic Resources Education (CARE) program. The CARE program has introduced over 230,000 people to the sport of fishing since 1986! CARE staff, along with hundreds of certified volunteer instructors, use fish and fishing as a medium to create the next generation of fishing participants and environmental stewards. CARE is funded entirely through Federal Sport Fish Restoration monies and the Sport Fish Restoration Program (SFR) provides grant funds to the state fish and wildlife agencies for fishery projects, boating access and aquatic education. Funding for SFR comes from people who fish! Through the purchases of fishing equipment, motorboat and small engine fuels and import duties the SFR Program is one of the most successful user pay, user benefit programs.

CARE instruction and activities are designed to provide aquatic education opportunities, to increase the public’s interest, understanding, and stewardship of aquatic resources, and to inspire adults and families to adopt fishing as an activity of choice. The angling public, as a group, is among the most dedicated stewards of the environment, and this is critical to support DEEP’s mission of “conserving, protecting and improving the natural resources and environment of the state.” 

If you attend one of the many CARE classes you can expect to learn all the basics to get started fishing safely, legally, and successfully! We strongly encourage participants to attend a CARE Introduction to Fishing ZOOM class first to learn about proper fishing equipment, bait, and the fish you will catch before attending the fishing trip. At the Special Fishing Events, CARE staff and volunteers will teach hands-on skills like setting up a fishing rod, casting, baiting a hook, and provide additional support as needed! Full schedule of Introduction to Fishing classes and Special Fishing Events can be found at https://portal.ct.gov/DEEPCARE  

The Fisheries Division works hard to create diverse fishing opportunities for residents all over the state. Beginning in 2006, the Community Fishing Waters program was established to promote natural resources and outdoor recreation opportunities within Connecticut’s major population centers and urban neighborhoods. By partnering with civic groups, municipal leaders, and local citizens, the program also maximizes community involvement. Since the inception of these Community Fishing Waters, thousands and thousands of anglers have taken advantage of the great fishing opportunities, right in their own backyard! The Fisheries Division works to enhance fishing opportunities within our Community Fishing Waters by stocking trout and/or channel catfish in them and offering dozens of CARE Special Fishing Events! For more information visit: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Fishing/Freshwater/Community-Fishing-Waters

Justin Wiggins is just one example of the dedicated and knowledgeable members of our state workforce. Interested in being profiled? Reach out to Drew Stoner at DStoner@csea760.com!