For the sixth year the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWC) is sponsoring a summer fishing clinic for kids ages 6 to 14. Held at the Commission's Cedar Key facility, the program is part of a grant from the Sports Fishing Restoration Program. The grant covers the cost of the program and is designed to teach young people the sport of fishing. Program Coordinator George Shipp is being assisted this year by Kayla Moseley and Melissa Woods.
The one day classes are held Monday through Friday starting June 7th and run through the third week of July. Classes combine both classroom and hands on training in various aspects of fishing. The participants receive education on habitats, types of fish, rod and reel styles, ethics of angling, and how to set up a tackle box. The discussion of types of baits to use includes a chance for them to design and hand color their own artificial lure. 
George Shipp teaching kids how to cast
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Following a session on proper casting technique, they walk out to the pier located next to the FFWC building and try their hand at actually catching a fish. 
Melissa Woods show them how to hook a live shrimp for bait
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When they have finished the day's program they are awarded certificates of completion, and each receive a rod and reel and a tackle box. The kids were also given a special treat today of ice cold root beer floats. The soda was donated by the Sunset Isle RV Park of Cedar Key, and the ice cream was donated by Schwann. 
Trying their luck at the fishing pier
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Program Coordinator George Shipp said the classes are full for this year but interested parents or groups can contact him via e-mail to have their name placed on the notification list for next year's program. Communities who would like to start their own program can also contact Mr. Shipp to get information on the required protocol for the program. He can be reached at: george.shipp@fwc.state.fl.us | 