AFI So-Cal Pocket Fishing & Shore Clean-up - Vandenberg SFB

Event Start Date: 12/14/2025 9:00 AM

Event End Date: 12/14/2025 4:00 PM

Timezone: PST

SoCal AFI is Hosting a Pocket Fishing and Shore Clean-Up at Vandenberg Space Force Base!

Why You Should Want to Attend:

Backcountry Hunters & Anglers’ Armed Forces Initiative is dedicated to creating conservationists within the military community. Join SoCal AFI for a day of stewardship and skill-building along California’s scenic coastline. This event combines a shoreline clean-up with an introduction to pocket fishing, a simple, compact, and highly effective fishing method perfect for the adventurous angler.

Every piece of litter removed helps protect the health of our oceans and marine life, while each cast of a fishing line helps participants reconnect with the natural world. It’s a great way to spend time outdoors, build community, and learn how conservation and recreation go hand in hand.

What It Is:

This event is both a stewardship project and a fishing education workshop designed to highlight the importance of clean coastlines and sustainable angling. Participants will start the day with a shore clean-up effort before transitioning into a Pocket Fishing 101 session, where they’ll learn about California’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)—underwater parks that safeguard marine habitats and fisheries.

Attendees can expect to learn:

• How MPAs affect anglers and conservation outcomes

• How to read ocean currents and identify fish-holding structure

• How to target specific coastal species

• Basic fish cleaning, meat preservation, and cooking suggestions

• Techniques for building your own pocket fishing pole

Participants should plan to meet at the parking lot outside the North Gate Visitor Center. Some tackle will be provided, but please bring your own fishing gear, including a rod, reel, fishing license, and any preferred tackle. Bring a cooler if you plan to keep your catch.

When Is It:

Sunday, December 14th, 2025
🕘 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM PST

Where Is It:

Vandenberg Space Force Base
6 California Blvd
Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA 93437

Who Can Attend:

• Open to all members of the military community - Active Duty, Reserves, National Guard, Veterans, and Gold Star Families

• Anyone interested in supporting conservation, learning new fishing skills, and giving back to our public waters

You do not need to be a BHA member to attend (but we’d love it if you were!).
All skill levels are welcome and encouraged to participate.

Additional Details:

• Please dress for variable coastal weather and bring gloves for the clean-up.

• Limited tackle available; bring your own if possible.

• Bring water, snacks, and a cooler if you plan to keep fish.

• Trash bags and disposal support will be provided.

Questions?

Contact Reina Seraaj, SoCal AFI Liaison, socaafi@backcountryhunters.org