Although a hefty portion of this free program is directed at teaching fledgling youngsters the basics of fishing and boating, primary adult instruction will also be offered. Even advanced anglers will have an opportunity to hone their skills via seminars presented throughout the day by regionally and nationally-known angling experts.

One of the more favored activities will be a stocked fishing pond set up for kids under 16.

According to FWC Biologist Jim Sweatman, 3,000 catfish will be placed into a small Barnett Park lake prior to the event with 30 to 50 supervised fishing stations for youthful enthusiasts, most of whom probably have never caught a fish.

"Cane poles and bait will be furnished, while FWC personnel and civilian volunteers will readily be available to ensure that these kids enjoy what may be their first angling experience," said Sweatman.

Young people and their parents will have an opportunity to attend a short class that includes 5-minute segments covering basic aquatic education, tackle, casting and knot tying. Upon completion, participants under 16 will receive a Junior Fishing License and a new Fish Orlando map pinpointing area angling hotspots.

Another brief hands-on boating safety class will reward graduates with a small boat sticker to be placed onto their Junior Fishing License, plus a chance to go out onto a pond to operate their own canoe and/or kayak. One of many highlights will be an electronic fish simulator where individuals actually experience the sensation of battling trophy-sized fish without leaving the dock.

Another will be a fish aquarium set up by legendary Glenn Lau, one of the world's leading video photographers and angling experts. It was Lau, along with fellow Fishing Hall of Famer Homer Circle, who produced the award-winning documentary, "Bigmouth," which spanned the life cycle of largemouth bass.

Live band music, fishing related games, face painting by costumed clowns, booth displays by sponsoring tackle and boating companies, and door prize drawings throughout the day will provide additional excitement. Of particular interest to adults will be seminars and hands-on fishing instruction sessions featuring many of the world's leading fishermen and women.

"Such local and regionally recognized notables as Linda Holder, Don Teddy, Phil Levine, John Evertsen, Tommy Young and flyfishing ace Dave Olsen will also be on hand to instruct visitors on the latest fish-catching techniques, and tell them when and where to go for the best results." Families are welcome to bring their own picnic lunches. Food and beverages will also be available from the Orange County Police Athletic League at modest prices.

This Second Annual Fish Orlando Big Catch Event on April 10, is shaping up to be the largest such extravaganza ever held in Florida and it's all free to young and old alike.

"The only requirement," said Sweatman, "is for folks to have an interest in fishing and a yen for a day of family fun in the outdoors."