Fishing Forward in Honor of Ashley Rogers-Downs
Every rod placed in a child's hands helps continue Ashley's legacy.
Reel Ladies Sportfishing Team is a volunteer-based group of lady anglers dedicated to empowering women and children through the sport of fishing. Through community events, free fishing clinics, youth outreach, and our annual Spanish Mackerel Tournament, we work to teach children the basics of fishing while encouraging confidence, conservation, sportsmanship, and lifelong memories on the water.
One of our most meaningful missions is using proceeds from our Spanish Mackerel Tournament to support local children by providing fishing rods, reels, tackle, shirts, and hands-on fishing experiences. The children are taught how to cast, hook, dehook, and safely enjoy the outdoors, including special fishing days at St. Andrews State Park in support of Anchorage Children’s Home. Local news coverage has highlighted that proceeds from the tournament help provide each child with a rod and reel combo, starter fishing kit, and a memorable day learning to fish.
In honor of Ashley Rogers-Downs, who loved fishing with her family, encouraged children to fish, and supported the heart of what Reel Ladies stands for, memorial donations will be used to purchase fishing rods and equipment for children. This gift will continue Ashley’s love for fishing by helping children experience the joy, confidence, and memories that come from time spent on the water.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Reel Ladies Sportfishing in Ashley’s honor to help provide fishing equipment and fishing experiences for children.
