Anglers interested in teaching fishing techniques can become certified instructors during one-day class

Feb. 26, 2015 - PRATT – What better way to enjoy your passion than to share it with others? The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) is looking for anglers interested in sharing their passion for fishing by teaching fishing techniques in Kansas. Through a one-day Angler Education Instructor Certification Course, KDWPT and Fishing’s Future will provide anglers with the tools necessary to work with children and host classes and clinics. The course will be held March 21 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the KDWPT Pratt Operations Office, 512 SE 25th Ave., Pratt. There is no cost to attend.

Attendees will learn about current fishing regulations, species identification, fishing ethics, equipment, knot-tying, casting, fish habitat, aquatic nuisance species, and conservation practices. Apart from being certified, anglers will also receive sample curriculums for running a class.

One way in which certified angler education instructors can utilize their skills is by leading a local high school fishing club. Many Kansas high schools have already implemented similar programs, but for schools that have yet to offer such clubs, the need for interested and qualified instructors has yet to be met. Certified instructors may even be eligible to receive fishing supplies, including poles and bait, from KDWPT at no cost. Fishing license fees for students 16 and older may also be waived for agency-approved events with prior agency approval.

Anglers interested in registering for the March 21 class are encouraged to sign up by visiting www.fishingsfuture.org and clicking “upcoming events,” then “Angler Certification training in Pratt, Kansas.”

For more information, contact Fishing’s Future coordinator Kevin Reich at kansasangler@gmail.com or by phone at (785) 577-6921.