Back-to-school season is underway. Now parents, teachers and school staff can apply for funding to support school fishing clubs for students. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) School Fishing Club Program offers school fishing clubs or teams the opportunity to apply for the Florida R3 Fishing Grant. This grant program is focused on engaging youth anglers to ensure the future of fishing in Florida.
The Florida Sport Fish Restoration R3 Fishing Grant will award up to 40 high school fishing clubs or teams $500. This money is to assist with club expenses, the purchase of fishing licenses or gear for participants. Clubs and teams will receive an updated educational curriculum comprised of lessons and activities on fisheries conservation and resource management. There’s also a chance to win prizes by completing the program’s Conservation Project.
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“The School Fishing Club program is an important program for teaching the next generation of anglers about ethical angling and conservation in Florida,” says Director of Marine Fisheries Management, Jessica McCawley. “I look forward to seeing the hard work and creativity each club puts into their conservation project activities each year to help preserve the health and quality of aquatic habitats.”
The grant program is open to new or existing freshwater and/or saltwater fishing clubs. Or teams at public, private, and charter schools throughout Florida. To be considered for the grant, school fishing clubs or teams must have a minimum of five members. They also must be represented by a school faculty member or parent who will follow the provided instructor’s manual.
The deadline for submitting applications is Sept. 16, 2022 at 5 p.m.
