Free Kids’ Fishing Clinic Promises a Day of Learning and Fun

Teaching kids a lifelong hobby and appreciation for our marine environment, as well as providing a fun family outing are the goals for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Kids’ Fishing Clinic.

The FWC, the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, Wakulla County, St. Marks Refuge Association and the Sport Fish Restoration Program present a free Kids’ Fishing Clinic for children between the ages of 4 and 15 on Saturday, May 31, 2008. Registration will begin at 11 am and close at 2 pm. The clinic will be held at Woolley Park in Panacea.

This free clinic enables young people to learn the basics of environmental stewardship, fishing ethics, angling skills and safety. In addition, environmental exhibits will offer participants a unique chance to experience Florida’s marine life firsthand. Kids’ Fishing Clinics strive toward several goals, but the main objective is to create responsible marine resource stewards by teaching children about the vulnerability of Florida’s marine ecosystems. In addition, organizers hope to teach fundamental saltwater fishing skills and provide participants a positive fishing experience.

Fishing equipment and bait will be provided for kids to use during the clinic, but organizers encourage children who own fishing tackle to bring it. A limited number of rods and reels will be given away to participants upon completion of the clinic.

If conditions allow, kids will have the opportunity to practice their new skills and fish from the pier. This event is a catch-and-release activity, and all children must be accompanied by an adult.

Individuals or companies interested in helping sponsor this event or volunteer at the clinic should contact Lori Nicholson with the USFWS at (850) 925-6121 or the FWC’s Gus Cancro at (850) 488-6058.

To find out more on taking a kid fishing, go to www.MyFWC.com/Marine/FishingClinics .

This article originally published on May 27, 2008.