By Jennifer Saranzak, Division of Marine Fisheries Management
Each year the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) holds several Women’s Fishing Clinics (WFC) throughout the state of Florida. These free, one-day clinics provide women the opportunity to learn the basics of fishing and fisheries conservation information in a fun, relaxed environment.
These clinics strive toward many goals, but one main goal of the program is to educate women to become stewards for Florida’s marine fisheries resources. Local fishing guides volunteer to share their knowledge and expertise about fishing area waters and what tackle to use to catch the fish found there. FWC staff provide information and demonstrations about catch and release techniques, the importance of marine habitats and other ways anglers can conserve and protect marine resources.
All clinics are located at public facilities with access to water via pier or dock. At the close of each clinic, participants have an opportunity to practice new skills, including baiting their hook, de-hooking fish and fish handling. The participants leave with a workbook summarizing the clinic, a deeper appreciation of the marine environment and a lifelong hobby of angling.
The women’s fishing clinics are available through funds from the Sport Fish Restoration Program. This federal program utilizes excise taxes on fishing tackle and small engine fuels for states to conduct beneficial fisheries related programs.
