Saltwater Kids' Fishing Clinics are one-day educational events for kids ages 5-15. These events were established by the Outreach and Education section of the Division of Marine Fisheries Management, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. One of the main goals for the Kids' Fishing Clinics is to create responsible marine resource stewards by teaching children the vulnerability of Florida's marine ecosystems. In addition, we hope to teach fundamental saltwater fishing skills and to provide kids with a positive fishing experience.
At the clinics, the children go through five mandatory skill stations: Casting, Knot Tying, Fishing Tackle, Good Angler and Touch Tank. After approximately one hour of instruction, the children will receive a free rod and reel (compliments of local sponsors while supplies last), and at most clinics, will have the opportunity to fish.
Since 1996, more than 52,000 children and 43,000 parents have participated in our Kids' Fishing Clinics. None of this would have been possible without the 10,000 volunteers who have come out to assist in educating these young anglers about fishing techniques, marine habitats, ethical angling and conservation.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or hosting 
a clinic, please review our protocol or call the Outreach and Education office at (850) 487-0554.
The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's involvement is funded in part by money from the Sport Fish Restoration Program. This national program collects money from excise taxes on fishing equipment, import duties on fishing equipment and boats, and taxes on motorboat and small-engine fuels.
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