First Mate Academy, founded by Captain Andy Benedict, is getting young people outdoors and teaching them boating skills and life lessons in Palm Harbor, Florida.
Learning Boating Skills
The academy operates from Speckled Trout Marina and offers seasonal camps along with a year-round, curriculum-based academy. During First Mate Camp, students work alongside a charter captain and professional first mate to learn what it takes to become second in command aboard a fishing boat.
Students learn boat-launching procedures, marine terminology, and basic safety practices. Once underway, they receive hands-on instruction in operating a trolling motor and power pole, catching bait, throwing cast nets, rigging tackle, and tying fishing line to hooks.
Life Lessons
The academy’s lessons extend beyond boating and fishing. Benedict wants students to understand the responsibility that comes with enjoying Florida’s waterways, including respecting marine life, following fishing regulations, and protecting the natural resources that make the Tampa Bay area special.
The program is designed to make education feel like an adventure. Whether students are learning to tie a knot, catching their first fish, or helping launch a boat, each lesson is intended to build confidence and independence.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
