Catching your first fish is a big deal. Talk to any angler and no matter how long ago it was, they can usually tell you the story of the first fish they caught. A camping trip with their family or out on a boat with grandpa, that memory always holds a very special place.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) wants to help commemorate that moment with its First Fish Award program. With this new program, NDOW will present the first-time angler with a personalized "First Fish" certificate and a collectable lapel pin.

"Catching that first fish hopefully marks the beginning of a lot of wonderful memories out on the water catching fish with your friends and family," said Pat Sollberger, Fisheries staff specialist for NDOW. "We want to help people remember that first moment and that's where this program comes in."

The first step is easy; take someone fishing who hasn't been before. Once your son, daughter, husband, best friend, or co-worker reels in their first fish all you have to do is go to the Department website at ndow.org and print out the First Fish Award form. Send in the completed form and a photo of the new angler holding their very first fish to the address on the form. Because the program began July 1, 2013 entries must be for fish caught on or after that date.

"The First Fish Award program is just a fun way to get anglers out fishing Nevada's waters and hopefully get hooked on fishing," said Sollberger.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) protects, restores and manages fish and wildlife, and promotes fishing, hunting, and boating safety. NDOW's wildlife and habitat conservation efforts are primarily funded by sportsmen's license and conservation fees and a federal surcharge on hunting and fishing gear. Support wildlife and habitat conservation in Nevada by purchasing a hunting, fishing or combination license. Find us on Facebook, Twitter or visit us at www.ndow.org.