The thrill of catching your first fish is a memorable experience, and an important outdoor skill that can result in a tasty meal.
Florida Oceanographic Society will host the 4th annual Game Fish and Fish Games on Sunday, April 19 from 8:45 to 11:30 a.m. for children ages 8–14. This free fishing clinic will take place at the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center, 890 N.E. Ocean Blvd. on Hutchinson Island in Stuart.
Learn about tackle selection, knot tying, casting, cast netting, fish identification, filleting, and ethical angling techniques. Participants will also receive a free spinning rod and reel courtesy of the “Fish Florida” license plate program. Afterwards, compete in a month-long catch, photograph, and release fishing tournament in partnership with the Snook and Gamefish Foundation.
“In today’s ‘digital’ world, fishing has to be one of the best ways to get kids off the couch and excited about the outdoors. By giving our young anglers an early introduction to responsible and ethical fishing, we hope to kick start a lifelong passion for the sport,” said Zack Jud, PhD, director of education and exhibits at Florida Oceanographic Society.
This program is made possible thanks to the generous support of Fish Florida, the Snook and Gamefish Foundation, and the International Game Fish Association. Special recognition goes to the Stuart Rod and Reel Club and Stuart Flyrodders, whose members have volunteered their time and expertise to help encourage a passion for angling in countless local youngsters.
Participants must wear close-toed shoes; bug spray, sunscreen, hat, and a water bottle are recommended. Advance registration is required; please RSVP by April 12. To register or to learn more, call the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center at 772-225-0505, or visit FloridaOcean.org.
About Florida Oceanographic Society
Florida Oceanographic Society is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1964 with the mission to inspire environmental stewardship of Florida’s coastal ecosystems through education, research and advocacy. The 57-acre Coastal Center is located on Hutchinson Island in Stuart, situated between the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean. As a leading state and nationally recognized environmental organization, Florida Oceanographic offers educational programs for all ages and conducts research and restoration programs that lead to healthy coastal ecosystems. For more information, visit FloridaOcean.org or call 772-225-0505.