Aquatic Resources Education Program

• Statewide clinics and seminars

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 The Aquatic Resources Education Program (AREP) is the Department's means to promote the sport of fishing and aquatic resource awareness as well as a way to give youth, regardless of family situation, an opportunity to learn about Oklahoma's aquatic environments and how to fish.

Developed in 1988, the program's objectives are:

• To increase the understanding, appreciation, and awareness of Oklahoma's aquatic resources; and
• To facilitate the learning of angling skills, outdoor ethics, and sportfishing opportunities in the state.
• Enhance urban fishing opportunities, 
• Develop adult fishing clinics or seminars and 
• Provide information on specialized fishing techniques

These one-day events present information on such topics as:

fish identification
knot tying
fish cleaning and cooking
fishing tackle selection and use
water safety
outdoor ethics
pollution
water quality

Most clinics include fishing at a nearby pond or lake. To date, thousands of clinics have been organized statewide. The overwhelming response to this program, with more than 1,600 participants at some clinics, indicates the need for continuation of AREP. Certified volunteer instructors conduct the clinics after attending a three hour training workshop. These workshops, held at various locations throughout Oklahoma, are open to groups or individuals interested in volunteering to train and educate tomorrow's anglers. These clinics provide an excellent means for bass clubs, civic organizations, church groups, and others who care about kids, fishing, or conservation, to give something back.

A variety of literature (posters and brochures, etc.) is available for certified volunteer instructors to distribute to fishing clinic participants. A variety of rods and reels are available as loaners for use at fishing clinics. Banners, portable aquariums and a variety of teaching aids for the program are also available. Certified instructors receive a patch to sew onto a khaki (tan) shirt of their choice, a uniform cap, and a window sticker to display on their vehicle, as well as participating in an incentive program which rewards them for their service.

If you, your group, or school are interested in participating in this program or if you would like more information, please contact the Aquatic Education Coordinator, Damon Springer, at the address listed below.

Damon Springer
Aquatic Education Coordinator
Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation
PO BOX 53465
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73152
Phone: (405)-521-4603