BOSSIER CITY, Louisiana (KTAL / KMSS) – Several Bass Pro stores across the United States have donated more than 40,000 fishing rods and reels to local nonprofits in an effort to get more young people out .

According to Bass Pro Shops in Bossier City, the fishing rods and reels went to the Dream Hunt Foundation.

The organization was founded in 2013 and is located in Stonewall, LA. The aim of the organization is to help disabled children and to live the dream of going out with nature.

“We can take this gear and use it on our next fishing trip.” We welcome students from Caddo, Bossier and De Soto schools, ”said Jeff Warren, founder of the Dream Hunt Foundation.

The donated supplies come from customers participating in the store’s rod and reel exchange program. Customers bring back lightly used rods and reels in exchange for discounts on new equipment.

Bass Pro’s Gone Fishing is a two-weekend event where kids can come to the store to fish in the catch and release ponds. Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris thought it would be a great idea to get more kids out to enjoy fishing.

“It allows children to hang up their phones and go outside to enjoy nature. For those who really appreciate it, they joined high school fishing teams and even learned their skills in college, ”said CL Bourne.

The weekend event will allow kids to take home a ‘First Fish’ certificate and beginner guides, and participate in free seminars, crafts and photo downloads.