South Florida has been holding its breath to see if the oil spill will be carried onto their shores via the loop current. "Ladies, Lets Go Fishing!", a fishing seminar offered specifically for women, is taking the opportunity to teach women the importance of ocean conservation. The two day seminar, hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), emphasizes hands-on skills with techniques such as releasing, knot tying, dehooking, bait rigging, spin casting, gaffing grapefruits, cast netting, trailer backing, boat handling and more. In addition, "Ladies, Let's Go Fishing!" has launched a conversation effort in conjunction with the Save Our Seas Foundation, geared at promoting grassroot conservation initiatives.
When asked what they learned about ocean conservation, recent graduates listed everything from catch and release techniques such as dehooking, to habitat preservation, protection, and regulation, and one even quipped "Size matters!".
Scheduled for June 11-13, 2010, at the I.T. Parker Community Center, Dania Beach, FL ladies will have the chance to learn, practice and participate in this wholesome sport, while enjoy the waters surrounding South Florida.
Activities launch with a welcome networking party on Friday 6:00-8:00 p.m. On Saturday, classroom presentations begin at 8 a.m., with beginner and advanced sessions on topics including fishing basics and conservation, with a presentation by the FWC on the impact of the Gulf oil spill on marine life. Other fishing classes include Offshore/Capt. Tony Digiulian and John Drouet, Inshore/Capt. Ray Culver and Fly/Capt. Ariel Cabrera. A "Dress for Fishing Success" fashion show is held at lunch, followed by hands-on skill practice at multiple stations listed above.
On Sunday, the ladies board boats at approximately 7a.m. at the Radisson Bahia Mar docks for an optional half day fishing trip. The boats return for a fillet demonstration.
Featured on national network television and more, the series is held in conjunction with the FWC through the Sport Fish Restoration Program, with major partners such as Mercury Outboards, Ranger, BoatU.S. ANGLER Insurance, Gulfstream Int’l Airlines, Minn Kota, Humminbird and Magic Tilt Trailers. There will be opportunities for local businesses and area anglers to take an active role in the seminar. I.T. Parker is at 901 NE 3rd St., Dania Beach, FL 33004.
Registration is $99 until June 4 and $135 after. Registration includes instruction, use of equipment, hands-on training, networking reception and fundraisers, meals, goody bags and more. The Sunday Fishing Adventure, with tackle and bait provided, is additional.
The LLGF 2010 schedule concludes with a seminar Nov. 12-14 in Islamorada. Contact: phone (954) 475-9068; email info@ladiesletsgofishing.com;
