Free Kids' Fishing Clinic on Saturday, May 8

Fishing is an important American tradition, right up there with baseball and apple pie. Most of us remember the first fish we caught and where we caught it - especially if we grew up in Florida.  Florida is known as the "Fishing Capital of the World" for good reason, as this state offers excellent saltwater and freshwater fishing opportunities to residents and visitors alike.  Fishing does not need to be expensive or involve long trips as ponds, lakes, and rivers near Tallahassee offer bluegill, largemouth bass and catfish. Surf fishing along the Gulf may produce trout, redfish, mullet and flounder. Also, with food costs on the rise, catching your own fish is a valuable option.  Remember, the magic trio of salt, pepper, and cornmeal along with a 12-inch iron skillet heated just right produces fine fare!

Sadly, the Outdoor Recreation Participation Report of 2008 by the Outdoor Foundation indicates that from 2006 to 2007, there was an 11.6% drop in participation in outdoor recreation activities, including fishing, among American children ages 6 to 17.  It seems that more children increasingly spend their free time indoors or in structured sedentary activities.  This trend contributes to increased rates in childhood obesity, increases in depression and attention deficit disorder.  Young people who are isolated from the outdoors are far less likely to be active participants and champions of the environment as adults.  So, how do we reverse this trend? The report surveyed the children and found that the primary motivations for engaging in outdoor activities are parents, friends, family, and relatives. It is clear that children need our support to learn about the benefits and joy of a healthy active outdoor lifestyle.

{sidebar id=1}Fishing is an opportunity to introduce children to a lifetime sport that will offer hours of recreation, relaxation and time with family and friends.  A great introduction to the joys of fishing is offered at the annual Free Kids' Fishing Clinic on Saturday May 8, 2010, from 11am to 2 pm at Wooley Park in Panacea.  Sponsored by the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the St. Marks Refuge Association, Inc., and Fish Florida!, the clinic offers an opportunity for children, ages 7-15,  and their parents to learn the basics of fishing.  There will be learning stations explaining different knots used in fishing, environmental stewardship and ethics, how to cast, what species of fish are found locally and a real catch-and-release station off the pier in the park.

There is no pre-registration for this event.  An adult must accompany participants and registration will begin at 11 am.  Please remember to bring sunscreen and dress to be outdoors.  Fishing equipment and bait will be provided for all kids to use during the clinic, but children who own fishing tackle are encouraged to bring it. Free rods and reels will be given away as long as supplies last, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Fishing introduces children to the diversity of nature and our dependence on a healthy environment.  It sparks an interest in an activity that crosses all generations and backgrounds that will last a lifetime, promotes a healthy lifestyle and creates stewards to protect America's natural heritage. Let's "Take a Kid Fishing" on Saturday, May 8 at Wooley Park!

For more information, please call 850/925-6121.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov .

This article originally published on April 29, 2010.

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westmark

 

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