Have you ever travelled and realized you left some things at home that you wish you’d brought, or have you ever seen an opportunity to try something new but don’t have things you need.
Some folks feel that way when visiting a South Carolina state park and seeing the fishing opportunities available, only to realize they didn’t bring fishing gear. But thanks to a partnership with the SCDNR, most state parks have the answer in the form of the Fishing Tackle Loaner Program, which works similar to a library.
Thirty of South Carolina’s state parks participate in the loaner program, which is made possible through the SCDNR’s Aquatic Education program. Lorianne Riggin, project coordinator, said park visitors can check out the tackle at no cost.
“The equipment is all paid for through Aquatic Ed’s general fund, and all the necessary tackle is provided at no cost to the angler, including rods, reels, fishing line and terminal tackle like bobbers, hooks, and weights. The only thing not provided is bait,” Riggin said.
Each park also has pamphlets to inform anglers how to tie basic knots, how to hook a variety of baits, and other general fishing information.
Riggin said she would like to see all of the state parks participate in the program, but it’s not currently possible. A list of the parks that participate can be found at www.dnr.sc.gov/aquaticed. Questions about the program can be sent to aquaticed@dnr.sc.gov.
