Wabasso School of Fish, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating and inspiring the next generation through fishing, water safety, and environmental conservation. We believe that every child should have the opportunity to connect with nature, learn essential outdoor skills, and understand the importance of protecting our waterways. By providing free fishing lessons and free or low-cost fishing gear, we remove financial barriers that might prevent children from experiencing the joys of fishing and environmental stewardship.
Our programs go beyond just teaching kids how to fish—we empower them with the knowledge, confidence, and responsibility to become active protectors of the Indian River Lagoon and surrounding ecosystems. Through hands-on learning and community involvement, we create opportunities for youth to engage with nature while fostering a lifelong commitment to conservation.
Our Mission
Our mission is to educate, equip, and inspire children through fishing, water safety education, and conservation initiatives. We aim to:
Provide free fishing lessons to teach kids responsible angling and sustainable fishing practices.
Offer free or low-cost fishing gear as an incentive for learning about conservation and water safety.
Promote environmental stewardship by engaging children in hands-on activities like lagoon cleanups and habitat restoration efforts.
Ensure accessibility so that all children, regardless of background, have the opportunity to experience and appreciate the natural world.
Our Vision
We envision a future where every child can experience the joy of fishing, understand the importance of water safety, and develop a deep appreciation for the environment. By immersing kids in hands-on learning experiences, we equip them with the skills and knowledge to become confident anglers, responsible citizens, and dedicated stewards of our natural resources.
Our vision extends beyond just education—we strive to create a community-driven movement for conservation. We want to empower young leaders who will advocate for the protection and preservation of Florida’s coastal ecosystems. Through education, mentorship, and real-world engagement, we hope to inspire lifelong respect for the environment and ensure that the Indian River Lagoon and its surrounding waters remain healthy and thriving for future generations.
Why Our Work Matters
Florida’s coastal ecosystems, including the Indian River Lagoon, face ongoing threats from pollution, habitat destruction, and overfishing. These issues not only impact wildlife but also affect local communities that depend on healthy waterways for recreation and economic sustainability. By educating children at a young age, we help build a generation that understands how to protect and sustain our fragile marine environments.
Additionally, many children lack access to outdoor activities like fishing due to financial or social barriers. Wabasso School of Fish, Inc. ensures that every child, regardless of background, has the chance to learn, explore, and connect with nature in a meaningful way.
How We Operate
Our programs are funded through community support, grants, and donations. We rely on volunteers, local businesses, and conservation partners to provide resources, host educational events, and supply fishing gear to participating children.
Fishing Education & Mentorship – Experienced anglers teach kids fishing techniques, ethical angling, and water safety.
Conservation Initiatives – Kids participate in lagoon cleanups, habitat restoration projects, and sustainability education.
Equipment Accessibility – We provide free or low-cost fishing gear to ensure every child has the tools needed to participate.
Community Engagement – We partner with local organizations, schools, and businesses to expand our reach and impact.
How You Can Help
Wabasso School of Fish, Inc. relies on the generosity of our community and grants to keep our programs running. Here’s how you can make a difference:
Donate: Your contribution helps fund fishing gear, educational materials, and conservation programs.
Volunteer: Get involved by mentoring kids, assisting with events, or helping with cleanups.
Sponsor a Child: Provide fishing gear or cover program costs for a child in need.
Partner With Us: Businesses and organizations can support our mission through sponsorships and collaborative initiatives.
Every donation, partnership, and volunteer effort creates opportunities for kids to learn, grow, and develop a passion for conservation. Together, we can empower the next generation and ensure that our waterways remain healthy and thriving for years to come.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Whether you’re an experienced angler, a conservation advocate, or someone who simply loves the outdoors, your support makes a lasting impact. Together, we can teach kids valuable life skills, protect our environment, and inspire future generations.
Let’s work together to cast knowledge, catch the future, and protect our waters!
