Anglers for Conservation (AFC), a non-profit 501(C)(3) organization, in partnership with Mote Marine Laboratory, is coordinating its engaging Hook Kids on Fishing Program to be held on Saturday, April 2nd, 2016 from 11:30am-1:30pm or 2-4pm during the FLORIDA KEYS OCEAN FESTIVAL taking place at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center directly Across from Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park (35 East Quay Road, Key West, 33040).

Kids ages 5 to 11, are welcome and must be accompanied by an adult. The first 100 kids registered will receive a free rod and reel to take home once they complete the program!

Registration is mandatory ONLINE ONLY by going to www.keysoceanfest.org. Once you register, you will soon receive an email confirmation and there will be NO event day walk up registry. Your child must attend and complete the seminar to receive the free rod and reel. 

This hands-on, conservation-minded program teaches casting, fishing safety, knot tying, tackle box essentials, catch and release tactics, fishing habitats and conservation, and is taught by professional guides and knowledgeable anglers.

Community support also provided by: Stock Island Marina Village, Two Friends Patio, Keystock 2016, FRLA, The Galleon Resort, Ocean Key Resort, Little Palm Island, Lower Keys Tackle, Keys Energy, Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation, The Wyland Foundation, Fish Florida Foundation, Fury Water Adventures, NOAA, Okuma Fishing, Deep Impact Boats, Reef Safe Suncare, Smokin Tuna Saloon, Westin Key West ResortKey West Harbor Services, Pier House Resort & Spa Centennial Bank, Coca Cola, Tavern & Town, Bombora Vodka, Four Star Rentals, Papa’s Pilar Rum, Blue Heaven, Galley Grill, Keynoter, Two Oceans Digital, Key TV, Monroe County TDC, WAIL 99.5FM, and The Weekly Newpapers.

The Florida Keys Ocean Festival celebrates our amazing marine environment and oceans with educational exhibits, great shopping, live music, food, drinks, kids’ activities, and fun for everyone. Admission and parking are free. All proceeds from the event go to coral reef restoration and research programs at Mote Marine Laboratory.

The Hook Kids on Fishing program is a product of the Anglers for Conservation (AFC), a non-profit-501-C3, whose mission is to create a new generation of marine stewards using community-based angling education, habitat restoration and applied conservation science. Donations are always greatly appreciated.

Volunteers are needed and sponsorships are available. For more information please contact Heather Sears at info@anglersforconservation.org; or phone, (321) 474-8202; ; or visit the website, www.anglersforconservation.org.