Plaquemines Parish Students Learn to Fish

Nearly 130 fourth through seventh graders in Plaquemines Parish schools learned about angling in March and April during fishing clinics hosted by the LSU AgCenter and Louisiana Sea Grant (LSG).

“We have stations set-up where the kids learn a little about fish biology, tying knots, and practice casting,” said Dominique Seibert, LSG and AgCenter marine extension agent. “One of the most important lessons they learn is looking behind them before they cast so they don’t hook anyone. Then they go fishing.”

The 4-H students came from Phoenix High School, Boothville-Venice Elementary, South Plaquemines Elementary and Belle Chasse Middle School. The clinics were held at Myrtle Grove Marina in Port Sulphur, and students had a variety of success catching freshwater eel, catfish, crabs, and small redfish.

“The kids love the clinics and ask to come back each year. The whole purpose is to get them out of the classroom, develop new skills and introduce them to new experiences,” said Seibert. “Its great to see them build confidence and get excited when they are reeling in a fish. Hopefully, they will take these new skills and go fishing with their families and create new memories.”

Clinics – which are open to 4-H club members – will be held in October, the following school year.