Program Overview: What You’ll Learn
This program offers a comprehensive exploration of diverse environmental and fishing topics, providing hands-on experiences and valuable knowledge. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Fishing 101: Gain essential skills for successful fishing, including gear selection, bait usage, knot tying, casting techniques, and understanding fishing regulations.
- On the Water: Apply your fishing skills in a real-world setting along the shore, practicing casting, bait selection, and techniques while navigating the water safely..
- Clam Research: Discover the crucial role clams play in maintaining water quality and ecosystem health, including insights from Dr. Todd’s research on “super clams.”
- Red Drum Research: Explore how scientists track, study, and raise red drum to support sustainable fisheries through acoustic tagging, hatchery science, and conservation research.
- Kayak Safety & Training: Discover the essentials of kayaking by learning paddling techniques, navigation skills, proper gear usage, and important water safety procedures for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
- Ecosystem Tour: Experience the diverse coastal ecosystems of wetlands and marshes from a boat, learning about the interconnections between different habitats and their roles in the environment.
- Washback Turtles & Beach Stewards Program: Learn about the significance of Washback Turtles and how you can contribute to their conservation through the Beach Stewards Program
- Fishing Lessons on Boat: Master the art of fishing in the ICWW of Northeast Florida, including navigation, safety, fish location techniques, and enjoying the natural surroundings.
- Celebration: Celebrate the successful completion of the SMFCF Outdoor Education Program with a fun-filled event recognizing our students’ hard work and accomplishments after a week of hands-on marine science, conservation education, and outdoor learning experiences.
This program is designed to provide a rich and engaging learning experience, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills and a deep appreciation for Florida’s natural world.