We are thrilled to announce that Bonnet Springs Park has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 Bay Mini-Grant program, funded by the Tampa Bay Estuary Program (TBEP).

This grant will provide vital funding for our upcoming Fall and Spring BSP Kids’ Fishing Clinics, allowing us to continue fostering a love for the outdoors in the next generations of conservationists.

Empowering Young Anglers

Our annual Kids’ Fishing Clinics are designed specifically for youth ages 5-15. The program’s mission goes beyond just catch and release practices, we aim to teach essential skills while promoting ethical angling and environmental stewardship.

In partnership with the Florida Youth Conservation Center Network, these clinics feature interactive learning stations where participants master:

• Knot Tying: Learning the loops and hitches every angler needs.
• Casting Techniques: Perfecting the art of the toss.
• Fishing Identification: Recognizing the diverse species that call our waters home.

After rotating through the educational stations, our young participants head to the Blanton Family Lagoon to put their new skills to the test and experience the thrill of the catch!

About the Tampa Bay Estuary Program

TBEP is dedicated to the protection and restoration of Florida’s largest open-water estuary. Their Bay Mini-Grant program supports community-driven projects that directly benefit the health and education of the Tampa Bay Watershed.

Interested in applying? If you have a community project focused on environmental education or restoration, we encourage you to apply during the next TBEP grant cycle. You can learn more about eligibility and deadlines at TBEP.org.

We are incredibly grateful to TBEP for their support in making these clinics possible and helping us keep our waters vibrant and healthy for years to come.