Parents and smiling children holding fishing poles made the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge third annual Kids Fishing Clinic a great success.  Held on May 21, 2005 at Wooley Park in Panacea, the event was well attended with 200 kids (ages 4-15) plus parents, and 20 volunteers.  Refuge Ranger David Moody, who organized the setup, stated "I feel like this program benefits the Service and local government entities in many ways.  It initiates contact with citizens of the local towns and communities.  This contact spurs communication channels and builds a priceless relationship for everyone involved in the program.  This event also attracts a diverse audience that is not typical of other events and promotes parent child interaction."

This free clinic enabled young people to learn the basics in environmental stewardship, fishing ethics, angling skills, and safety.  Five learning stations are set up and families moved through each station every 8 minutes.  The last station teaches casting, then each youth received a free rod and reel.  Bait was provided on the fishing pier for each child.  The learning stations and fishing pier were manned by volunteers who provided support, instruction, and hands on assistance.  Thanks to our sponsors and volunteers, lunch was provided for everyone.  Our future goal is to expand the clinic and reach more families.  Educating the next generation of fishing enthusiasts/community supporters is essential to our mission.


Kids Fishing Clinic Partners:

Wakulla County Parks and Recreation - Manage the Wooley Park facility.( bathrooms, electricity, garbage disposal, grounds, and pier).

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Provided staff, volunteers, generate sponsorships, and publicity.

State of Florida Marine Fisheries Division (Outreach and Education) – Provided staff,  learning station material, displays, tents, touch tanks, and manages the overall flow of the event.


Kids Fishing Clinic Sponsors:

St. Marks Refuge Association, Inc. - Donated money to purchase rod/reel combos.

Publix Stores Inc. - Donated food gift certificates.

Wal-Mart -  Provided giveaways and money for and rod/reel combos.

Florida Foundation for Responsible Angling

Sport Fish Restoration

(Photography by Emily and Jay Westmark)

(Please check back later for a Kids Fishing Clinic Photo Gallery section!)
 

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