Fishing Education Program
Most fishing clinics are hosted by partners and Certified Fishing Instructors and are geared towards those with little or no experience. Content covered in a clinic varies by presenter and audiences, but all have fishing as a central theme. Fish identification, management, casting demonstrations, equipment, water safety, and even fish cooking are a few areas covered.
Participants don't even need their own equipment. KDWP can provide rods, reels, and other necessary fishing equipment when available.
The Fishing Education Program, FishKS, has a program similar to Hunter Education where volunteers can become Certified Fishing Instructors. These instructors coordinate and assist with fishing events statewide. To become a Certified Fishing Instructor, you must attend a 4-5 hour class (Free) and complete supervised instruction. KDWP recognizes certification courses and programs from other organizations, such as Boy Scouts of America.
KDWP does not provide on-demand events. Please visit the Fishing Education Calendar to find events scheduled in your area.
Helpful Resources to get started Fishing
Interested in fishing? Download this brochure to help you get started with information on what you need to start fishing, including what equipment and tackle you need, how to get a license, where to go, and more!
This list provides general information on equipment and items you need to start fishing today! You can take this into a tackle store and use to navigate the aisles, or you make sure you have packed everything for a fishing trip. Don't forget your fishing license!
Certified Fishing Instructor Program
KDWP's Certified Fishing Instructor program is based on the highly successful Hunter Education program model. Volunteers who attend a free certification class and pass a background check are able to use KDWP resources to conduct fishing education events including clinics, derbies, and school programs. Classes are offered by request and are limited to 25 participants. This 4 to 5 hour class is designed to teach those that are familiar with fishing, how to teach others about the sport using both hands-on activities and literature. This is not for those new to fishing and wanting to learn how to fish. For more information regarding this instructor program, please contact Dave Foster at 620-672-0773.
Fishing Education Calendar