Grab the fishing poles and your little one and head to one of Ocala’s city parks for an impromptu fishing lesson.
Written By Karin Fabry-Cushenbery
There’s something to be said for quiet mornings spent sitting by the water, fishing pole in hand, waiting for that unmistakable tug on the line. You feel it, the adrenaline starts pumping and you pull back on the line, reeling in quickly. Doesn’t this sound like an experience you want to share with your favorite kid? We think so, too. And Dads, Moms, Grandparents, listen up… you don’t have to trek all the way to the forest to spend a memorable morning fishing.
“The City of Ocala allows catch-and-release fishing in four of their nature parks, including Tuscawilla park, Toms Park, Ritterhoff Park and S. Stanley Malever Nature Park,” says Ashley Dobbs, Marketing and Communications Manager, Office of Strategic Engagement for the City of Ocala. “The City provides opportunities for fishing enthusiasts to enjoy the outdoors while promoting conservation through catch-and-release practices. This type of fishing program provides an activity for kids to experience the thrill of fishing while also learning about conservation and respecting nature. Citizens can participate in this activity year-round; however, the Ocala Recreation and Parks Department hosts fishing events throughout the year geared toward children and seniors.”
So how do you begin if fishing isn’t the norm for you? All you really need are some size-appropriate fishing poles and a few lures to start. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, visit a local bait shop and pick up a container of worms, too. Stadium chairs, a lunchbox with waters and snacks, sunscreen and bug spray will round out your supply bag. Consider bringing a life jacket for the little one as well, just in case.
The website takemefishing.org has some great pointers for teaching kids to fish. Step one is to plan your trip with your kids in mind. That’s already a big check since you’ll be fishing in an area park complete with working bathrooms. If the kids aren’t into fishing, the swings are nearby! It’s easy to get discouraged with fishing if you’re not getting any bites, so encourage the kids to explore the water’s edge (safety first always!) if they get bored with fishing try looking for bugs and minnows or collecting rocks. Keep your first few outings simple and short, working on their cast and technique. Also, be sure to teach your kids to be gentle with the fish if a catch is made. Remember, it’s catch and release, so we want the fish to be happy and healthy when they make their way back to the water.
The city also reminds us to take care of our parks and leave them exactly as we found them.
“While utilizing the parks, it’s important to properly dispose of fishing line and not leave any items unattended to ensure the safety of wildlife and maintain the cleanliness of the parks,” says Ashley.
When you snag your first fish, and even your second and third, have the phone ready to snap a quick photo before you release your catch. After all, it’s all about spending quality time together and creating memories.
Fishing is allowed in the following city parks:
Tuscawilla Park
829 NE Sanchez Avenue
Toms Park
2300 NW Magnolia Avenue
Ritterhoff Park
1805 SE 14th Avenue
S. Stanley Malever Nature Park
1600 SE 30th Avenue