At just 13 years old, Baron Stang of southern Alberta has achieved remarkable success as an angler and hunter, showcasing his family's deep-rooted passion for the outdoors. In 2023, Baron made headlines at the Alberta Wildlife Federation's Annual Wildlife Awards Banquet by claiming two top honours: the largest sauger caught in Alberta that year, at 53.97 cm, and the largest goldeye at 48.26 cm. His accomplishments underscore the joy and adventure of fishing and hunting in Alberta's rich and diverse landscapes and habitats.
A Family Legacy of Outdoor Adventures
Baron's love for the outdoors comes from growing up in a family with a passion for adventure, which immersed him in outdoor activities from an early age. His dad, Ryan, influenced by his grandfather, has been an avid hunter and angler since childhood. Together, Ryan and Baron have explored Alberta's vast landscapes, hunting big game such as moose, antelope, and deer; and fishing in diverse waterbodies and remote stretches of rivers.
Baron began gopher hunting at just four years old, progressing to goose hunts by age eight as a helper on family outings. At 12, he shot his first moose, a proud milestone in his young hunting career. His adventures have included memorable antelope hunts and challenging elk pursuits with his dad—such as a four-mile stalk on the prairie that tested his endurance and determination. The biggest challenge was getting the antelope back to the vehicle after Dad was successful. Being part of the hunting party from an early age profoundly impacted Baron, and he could hardly wait to turn 12 when he was invited to partner on a special moose licence. Alberta offers Partner Licences for many big game species, generating unique opportunities to share a limited entry draw with a young hunter who typically has to wait years to draw themselves.
Fishing Adventures
Baron's fishing journey started early, casting lines at two or three years old. When he could stand and walk, a fishing rod felt natural in his hands. His family frequently fishes the South Saskatchewan and Oldman rivers, and he often enjoys days where he catches 20 to 25 fish, including several sturgeon. Baron has become known among locals as the "Sturgeon Slayer" with his largest to date measuring an impressive 56 inches (142 cm).
Baron's favourite activities include jet boating and river fishing, with autumn weekends dedicated to chasing big walleye and sturgeon. He's also had unforgettable experiences salmon fishing on British Columbia's Kitimat River, a tradition passed down through his family.
Sharing the Outdoors with Family
Baron's outdoor pursuits extend to his family. His sister, Tommi, often joins him and has reeled in impressive catches, including a 51-inch (130-cm) sturgeon. Their mother Angie supports their adventures, ensuring that outdoor experiences remain a cherished part of family life.
The Stang family embraces camping trips, like their annual May long weekend at Chin Lake. Baron spends most of his time on the water's edge with a sturdy rod and pickerel rig baited to target a big northern pike. Using large baits he hooks massive pike, often weighing 20 to 25 pounds. His focus and determination make it easy to understand how the young angler won provincial awards for the largest fish in two categories. Competing against all other anglers in Alberta makes the awards a significant achievement. The family's shared moments reflect their commitment to enjoying nature together. Children who love angling can carry that passion and those dreams with them throughout a lifetime.
Words of Wisdom from a Young Pro
Baron's advice for aspiring anglers? "Cast into likely bays, fish the deeper holes, and use the right bait."
He is a testament to the fact that spending more time with a hook in the water will catch you more fish. You can't catch fish without having a favourite lure or bait in the water, and friendly competition with his sister fuels his passion. However, he doesn't always like when Tommi catches a bigger sturgeon.
The family jet boat allows them to fish remote, hard-to-reach stretches of river where big fish exist and are targeted. Baron continues to hone his skills and dreams of future adventures, including catching a white sturgeon on the Fraser River in British Columbia and experiencing the thrill of an African safari.
Parents' Role
Ryan and Angie Stang are great examples of parents who share their love for the outdoors with their children. Kids who never get a chance to fish or even find out that they have a passion for the outdoors may never know what they are missing. Holidays and time off are used wisely, with plans for the outdoors and, more importantly, their kids included.
"Pack plenty of snacks to keep kids in the boat longer," says Ryan. "Leave the electronics at home and allow the kids to experience the great outdoors as their education and entertainment."
Distractions from the outdoors are a common problem in today's society. Allowing kids to nurture a keen interest, experience wildlife, and learn about the things they love has incredible rewards. You do not see the colourful birds, deer fawns, native trees, or blooming flowers when your nose is buried in a tablet or smartphone. It isn't always easy, but electronics aren't as interesting or enjoyable when the kids appreciate everything around them. Focusing on catching a fish bigger than your sister's also helps.
