In 2012, the S.C. Department of Natural Resources decided to take a proactive approach to recruiting more anglers to state parks, as well as other fishing locations. SCNDR’s Family Fishing Clinics are a big part of the agency’s outreach program, and many are held in state parks.
“We began the program to bring new anglers to the sport of fishing and give folks who were once active anglers another chance to get involved,” said Lorianne Riggin, coordinator for the SCDNR’s Aquatic Education program. The clinics are more than just instruction. Participants all get to try their hand at catching fish at the end of the class by putting everything they learned into practice while it is still fresh.
Riggin said many would-be anglers are either intimidated by, or simply unsure of, the many details of fishing, such as how to tie certain knots, how to cast or what tackle to use in certain situations. Some need initial guidance, and others are just looking for a refresher course. Either way, these clinics feature SCDNR-trained instructors who teach the anglers all they need to get on the water and catch fish.
“The SCDNR trains our own fishing instructors, so no matter what park is holding a clinic, we know the same basics are being taught,” said Riggin.
A couple of Family Fishing Clinics are available this month. Sesquicentennial State Park has one scheduled on June 8 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. One is scheduled at Dreher Island State Park on June 14 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.. At least a dozen more are scheduled for the rest of the year at those two locations.
To become an instructor, sign up for a clinic, or get more information about the clinics, visit www.dnr.sc.gov/aquaticed.
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