Freshwater Fishing Education

Freshwater Fishing Education Program is dedicated to educating the public about recreational freshwater fishing techniques, responsible angling practices, and the importance of South Carolina’s freshwater ecosystems. Our educational and outreach programs emphasize the biology and ecological functions of these aquatic systems, while also promoting ethical angling and environmental stewardship. This program started in 1999 and wouldn’t be where it is today without our amazing volunteers!

The Freshwater Fishing Education Program certifies volunteers to become Certified Freshwater Fishing Instructors. Volunteers help lead and assist with fishing education programs. This program is statewide, and volunteers are needed throughout the state. All programs cover the basics of saltwater fishing and teach skills on how to tie fishing knots, how to rig a rod and reel, casting, how to ID freshwater fish, and best catch and release practices.

Fishing instructors can participate in any of the following volunteer programs:

Fishing Clinics: These clinics are typically 2-3 hours long and include a sit-down instructional component then a fishing component. These clinics can be taught more actively making them shorter. Target audiences include beginners, those who need refreshers, families, kids, bilingual participants, mobility-impaired, women, and veterans. Locations include public lakes, state parks and ponds.

Kids' Fishing Tournaments/Rodeos: Assisting with SCDNR kids' fishing tournaments and rodeos, Youth BASS SCDNR tournament, and the Palmetto Sportsmen’s Classic kids’ catfish pond Fishing

Outreach/Tabling Events: Assisting at expos, tabling events, and bigger outreach events such as the Palmetto Sportsman’s Classic and fishing expos.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

-Leading and participating in SCDNR fishing clinics and other saltwater outreach programs.

-Teaching children and adults the basic saltwater fishing skills, setting up and breaking down fishing clinics, and maintaining gear.

-Maintaining communication with volunteer coordinator about clinics, maintaining fishing equipment, and/or recording volunteer hours.

Volunteer Requirements:

-Participate in mandatory certification training. This typically takes place between January-March.

-Pass a state background check

-Host or volunteer for at least two fishing events a year

-Submit a volunteer timesheet within one week of volunteering

Next Steps:

1)Fill out the Freshwater Fishing Education Track (Volunteer Application) here

2) Wait until the Volunteer Coordinator approves qualifications. It can take anywhere between 2-4 weeks to get the background check processed. The volunteer coordinator will email letting you know if you have been accepted or denied. 

3) Once your application gets approved. You will be able to view the different volunteer opportunities available through this site.

Common FAQs:

What if I'm interested in volunteering right now but the Freshwater Fishing Education volunteer training isn't offered until a later date?

Unfortunately, we're only able to offer this training once a year. It typically takes place sometime between January-March. We encourage you to still fill out the volunteer application, but do know that you won't be able to actively start volunteering once you take the training. We will let you know as soon as the training date gets posted. We encourage interested volunteers to participate in one of our fishing programs to see firsthand what it will be like to volunteer. View that event calendar here. 

Why am I not able to respond to this opportunity or see any other Freshwater Fishing Education volunteer opportunities?

If your background check hasn't been approved or you haven't taken the Freshwater Fishing Education volunteer training then you won't be able to view or respond to any other volunteer opportunities for this program. All Certified Fishing Instructors must pass the qualifications in order to participate in program. The volunteer coordinator will reach out through email letting you know if you have been accepted into the program. Hold on tight!