Photo by Amanda Nalley/FWC
Teaching children a lifelong hobby, instilling appreciation for our marine environment and providing fun, family outings are the objectives for two upcoming Kids’ Fishing Clinics. One will be on Saturday, May 5, in Pensacola, and the other Saturday, May 12, in Fernandina.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) hosts these free Kids’ Fishing Clinics for children between the ages of 5 and 15. Clinics are from 9 a.m. to noon. The Pensacola clinic will be at Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park, 301 W. Main St., and the Fernandina clinic will be at Fort Clinch State Park, 2601 Atlantic Ave.
Preregistration is required to attend the Fernandina clinic. Visit https://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/4237054/2018-FWC-Kid-s-Fishing-Clinc 
to register.
These clinics enable young people to learn the basics of conservation stewardship, fishing ethics, angling skills and safety. In addition, environmental displays will offer participants a unique chance to experience Florida’s marine life firsthand.
Kids’ Fishing Clinics strive to achieve 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 are 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, participants will have the opportunity to practice their new skills and fish from the pier. This event is a photo catch-and-release activity. An adult must accompany all participants. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. and will conclude when 350 participants is reached.
Individuals or companies interested in helping sponsor this event or volunteering, should contact Scot Mason at prfa@mchsi.com for the Pensacola clinic, Brandon Volbrecht at 904-277- 7226 for the Fernandina clinic, or FWC’s Rebecca Lucas at 813-922-7962.
