HARRISBURG, Pa. (February 11) – The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is pleased to offer a variety of virtual educational resources for anglers and boaters!
Due to continued public safety concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic, all in-person PFBC programs have been canceled through at least March 31, 2021. To continue to offer valuable learning opportunities and safety information during this time, PFBC staff have been developing and delivering virtual learning experiences for individuals and families aimed at helping them get the most out of their time on the water. These virtual offerings include resources for learning new fishing/boating skills, improving fishing/boating skills, and learning more about the PFBC and Pennsylvania's aquatic resources.
Education Portal
The PFBC's Activities & Education Portal is a free, online resource where youth, parents, teachers, and educators can find fun, educational, and skill-building videos, more than 100 printable activity sheets, coloring pages, PLAY Newsletters, and other publications by topic. The portal is found on the PFBC website (www.fishandboat.com), in the Learning Center. New videos and other educational resources are being added each week.
In 2020, staff added more than 100 new videos, providing 14 hours of content on a variety of topics. PFBC videos are also accessible on the PFBC YouTube Channel.
Education Programs
During spring 2021, the PFBC will offer a variety of virtual educational programs. Topics will include:
· Fly Tying
· Fly Fishing
· Kayak Fishing
· Paddling Skills
· Trout Fishing
· Fishing for Panfish
· Lunch and Learn Series for Kids: PFBC staff will read a nature story book and provide a craft and/or live animal visit in this lunchtime series for young children (ages 4-7).
· Virtual Field Trips
· Interviews with PFBC staff
A Calendar of Events is available on the PFBC website for the schedule of programs. Pre-registration is required for many programs and space is limited. New programs are added regularly, so check the calendar often. Program information will also be posted on PFBC social media platforms, including Facebook and Twitter.
Boating Safety Education
Boating courses are fun for the entire family and there are three Commission-approved online courses. Participants should note that there are fees for these courses, including an additional $10 fee to obtain your permanent Boating Safety Education Certificate.
· Boat Education -- Boat Pennsylvania Online Boating Safety Course
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Media contact:
Mike Parker
Communications Director
(717) 585-3076
michparker@pa.gov