Tampa Police Youth Fishing Clinic for Kids

More than 100 Tampa children will learn fishing techniques and receive free equipment Saturday at Picnic Island in the fifth annual Youth Fishing Clinic, hosted by the Yerrid Foundation, Rise Tampa and Our Police Foundation.

The clinic begins at 9 a.m. Tampa Police officers, professional fishing guides and charter captains will instruct participants 15 and under on fishing rules and techniques. Each child receives a rod and reel combo to take home. The Tampa Police Marine Unit will offer boat tours and safety instruction.

"Reaching this five-year milestone shows the impact this partnership has for our community," Chief Lee Bercaw said. "We are creating mentorship bonds with our young people."

The Yerrid Foundation's support extends beyond the clinic to fund the Tampa Police Department's RICH House program, which operates multiple locations across Tampa. Each site employs a Tampa Police officer who serves as tutor and role model, offering after-school and summer programming plus access to family social services.