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Free Kids’ Fishing Clinic (Sept. 17)

fwc-kids1Media contact: Amanda Nalley, 850-410-4943

Photos available on the FWC’s Flickr site: http://flic.kr/s/aHsjzBWzfa.
Video available on the FWC’s YouTube site: http://youtu.be/KzOua12jMX8.

Suggested Tweet: Introduce kids to #fishing skills and fun at the Sept. 17 @MyFWC clinic! https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/FLFFWCC/bulletins/1621d09 #Florida #Sarasota

Free Kids’ Fishing Clinic promises day of learning, fun

Teaching children a lifelong hobby, instilling appreciation for our marine environment and providing fun, family outings are the objectives of the Kids’ Fishing Clinic in Sarasota on Sept. 17.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will offer a free Kids’ Fishing Clinic for children between the ages of 5 and 15 from 9 a.m. to noon, Sept. 17 at Ken Thompson Park, 1700 Ken Thompson Parkway.

These free clinics enable young people to learn the basics of environmental stewardship, fishing ethics, angling skills and safety. In addition, environmental displays 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.

Individuals or companies interested in helping sponsor this event or volunteering at the clinic should contact Ron Gauthier at 941-376-2714 or the FWC’s Allison Ashcroft at 850-487-0554.

To find out more about fishing clinics for kids, go to MyFWC.com/Fishing, select “Saltwater” then “Outreach and Education” and “Kids’ Fishing Clinics.”