Any adult, group, or conservation club who has a sincere interest in taking kids fishing should consider becoming a certified Passport to Fishing instructor, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
A Passport certification course is being offered June 28 at the ODNR Division of Wildlife District Two Office in Findlay. Passport to Fishing is a one-day instructor training program that qualifies individuals to become ODNR Division of Wildlife certified fishing instructors, similar to a hunter education instructor.
This workshop will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 952 Lima Ave., Findlay 45840. Participants are encouraged to bring a packed lunch and dress for the weather. It is free of charge, but preregistration is required by June 26, as space is limited. Participants will be required to complete a background check.
Passport to Fishing was developed by the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation and utilized by State agencies like ODNR Division of Wildlife. Workshops teach volunteers the basics of fishing and how to run a four-station program within a fishing event. These instructors then go back to their communities, with a written curriculum and training aids, to teach kids and beginning anglers the basics of fishing.
By becoming a certified instructor, you will not only be able to help in reconnecting students with the outdoors, but also have the skills and resources to do so in a more successful way. Resources available include grants, equipment, publications and brochures, and training.
For more information or to register for a workshop, please call the Wildlife District Two Office at 419-424-5000. For additional class information, visit wildohio.gov.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
