A fishing education program that has captivated primary school students for nearly two decades is making the leap to high schools, with educators praising its hands-on approach to environmental learning.

The Get Hooked program expanded to NSW high schools on Thursday, building on its remarkable success in primary education where it has engaged more than 70,000 students since launching under the Iemma Labor Government in 2008.

The initiative combines practical fishing skills with environmental science education, teaching students about sustainable practices, habitat conservation, and biosecurity through subjects including Biology, Environmental Science, and Physical Education.

Ryan Decker, a Marine Science teacher at St John Bosco College, has witnessed firsthand the program's impact on student engagement and learning outcomes.

"Over the past few years, St John Bosco College has partnered with Fishcare and the Get Hooked team through Fishing for Sport," Mr Decker said.

"This collaboration has helped students develop a passion for fishing, build lasting bonds, and gain skills in fishing safety, handling, and species identification."

The high school curriculum features four online learning units - Fishing in NSW, Understanding Fish Habitat, and Conserving Fish Habitat - with comprehensive lesson plans, activities, and assessments designed for Years 7 to 10 students.

Early indicators suggest strong uptake, with 67 high schools already expressing interest in the program across regional and metropolitan NSW, representing all education sectors.

Minister for Agriculture, Regional and Western NSW Tara Moriarty emphasised the educational value of the expanded program.

"The Get Hooked program has thrived in NSW primary schools over the past 17 years and I look forward to seeing the next generation of avid fishers grow within our geography, science, and marine studies classrooms," Ms Moriarty said.

The program addresses multiple educational objectives beyond recreational fishing, incorporating health and social benefits whilst promoting inclusive participation across different ages and genders.

Mr Decker, who plans to integrate elements of the new high school program into his Marine Science curriculum, sees significant potential for student development.

"As a Marine Science teacher, I'm excited to integrate aspects of the new High School Program into my lessons, empowering students with the skills and resources to become responsible stewards of the marine environment and deepen their appreciation for marine activities like fishing," he said.

The program's funding through the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust ensures its continuation whilst demonstrating direct community benefit from recreational fishing licence fees.

With more than 750 primary schools having participated over 17 years, and approximately 5,000 students joining annually, the expansion represents a significant investment in outdoor education and environmental stewardship.

Schools interested in participating can register online for free access to the comprehensive curriculum resources.