Teaching children a lifelong hobby, instilling an appreciation for our marine environment, and providing a fun family outing are the objectives for the Fernandina Beach Kids’ Fishing Clinic.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the Florida Foundation for Responsible Angling, Fort Clinch State Park and the Sport Fish Restoration Program present a free Kids’ Fishing Clinic for children ages 4-16 on Saturday, June 13. Registration will be from 9 a.m. to noon. The clinic returns to the usual place this year – Fort Clinch State Park – after a one-year change of venue.

This free event will enable young people to learn the basics of environmental stewardship, fishing ethics, angling skills and safety measures. In addition, environmental displays will provide participants with a unique chance to experience Florida’s marine life firsthand.

Kids’ Fishing Clinics have several goals, but the main objective is to create responsible marine resource stewards by teaching children about the vulnerability of Florida’s marine ecosystems. Also, the clinics aspire to teach fundamental saltwater fishing skills and provide participants with a positive fishing experience.

Clinic hosts will supply fishing equipment and bait for children to use during the event, but they encourage those who own fishing tackle to bring it.  A limited number of participants will receive rods and reels 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, and all participants must be accompanied by an adult.

Individuals or companies interested in helping sponsor this event or volunteering at the clinic should contact Marie Bucher with the Department of Environmental Protection at 904 -277-7233 or Gus Cancro with the FWC at 850-488-6058.