ODNR workshop promotes fishing for kids

ATHENS — Spaces are available for educators, leaders, or conservation clubs who have a sincere interest in taking kids fishing and want to become certified fishing instructors, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife. A free workshop is available on from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 13, which will take place at Wildlife District Four Office, 360 E. State St., Athens.

Passport to Fishing is a one-day instructor training program that qualifies individuals to become Division of Wildlife certified fishing instructors. All participants will need to pass a background check before being certified.

Passport to Fishing was developed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and adopted by the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation. Workshops teach volunteers the basics of fishing and how to run a four-station fishing program with a fishing event. These instructors then go back to their communities, with a written curriculum and training aids, to teach youngsters and beginning anglers the basics of fishing.

By becoming a certified instructor, attendees will not only be able to help in reconnecting students with the outdoors, but will also have the skills and resources to do it in a more successful way. Resources available include grants, equipment, brochures and training.  Interested candidates should dress for the weather, and don’t need to bring any of their personal fishing gear. 

To register for the workshop, call Chelsea no later than August, at (740) 589-9942. For additional class information, visit www.wildohio.com.