On Saturday, March 9, approximately 300 kids enjoyed a beautiful sunny day learning about fishing and the environment from Melbourne Police officers at the Melbourne Police Department’s fourth annual Kids Fishing Clinic at Ballard Park.

Some of the children brought their own fishing poles, and 242 poles were given away kids who needed them. The kids caught a variety of fish, including mangrove snapper, sheepshead, catfish and redfish.

“We had perfect weather for the event with families enjoying the day learning about habitat, conservation, proper handling, identification and resources,” said Melbourne Police Officer Charles McClure. “There were plenty of smiles and laughter and kids thanking officers as they left for the day for how much fun they had.”

The Melbourne Police Department hosted the fishing clinic with Melbourne Parks and Recreation and the Melbourne Fire Department. Generous sponsors made the event possible, including Eau Gallie Rotary Club, Riggs Outpost, Melbourne Police Foundation, East Coast Legal, Keep Brevard Beautiful, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Hubbs SeaWorld Research Institute, and Brevard Zoo.