Howard County Kids Fishing Clinic
Howard County offers so much in outdoor experiences, and the Fishing Clinic is a great way for kids to be part of it. Participants will spend time learning, exploring, and enjoying nature while building skills they can use for years to come. It’s more than just fishing; it’s about connecting with the outdoors, our community, and each other.
What is it?
The Kids Fishing Clinic is a hands-on summer program designed to teach kids ages 7–14 the basics of fishing while getting them outside and connected to nature. Through a series of classroom-style education nights and real on-the-water experiences, participants learn skills like casting, fish identification, water safety, and more—guided by local experts and volunteers. Each child receives their own fishing gear, and the program wraps up with a live fishing tournament, giving kids the chance to put what they’ve learned into action. It’s all about building confidence, having fun, and enjoying everything Howard County has to offer.
Who can participate?
Open to kids ages 7–14. Participants do not have to live in Howard County. A parent, guardian, or grandparent must attend sign-ups, complete registration, and sign the waiver. It is strongly recommended that kids attend sign-ups to be properly fitted for life jackets they will receive on Joe Ford Night.
At least one adult must attend each Classroom Education Night with the child. For safety reasons (weather, illness, etc.), drop-offs are not allowed. Limit of four kids per adult. Kids with perfect attendance are eligible for Grand Door Prizes on Thursday, July 30. Last year’s prizes included an all-expenses-paid walleye fishing trip to Lake Erie, an autographed duck call from Willie Robertson (Duck Commander, Duck Dynasty), and a kayak.
Sign-Ups
June 8, 2026 | 6–9 PM (or until 100 kids are registered)
Kokomo High School, Door #1 (west entrance facing Lincoln Road)
Line forms at 3 PM (please do not arrive earlier)
If needed, an additional session will be held June 10 at the same time and location
A big surprise is planned—you won’t want to miss it!
Classroom Education Nights (6–9 PM)
July 20, 21, 23, 28, and 30 | Same location
- July 20 – Joe Ford Night
Guest speakers: Kelsie Avery, Mike Young, Mayor Tyler Moore, IDNR Tyler Delauder, ICO Logan Harris, ICO William Dale
Includes Joe Ford Award presentation, mayor remarks, DNR and conservation officer presentations
Each of the 100 kids receives gear: rod and reel combo, life jacket, tackle bag, 5-gallon bucket, rain poncho, snap stringer, fishing towel, T-shirt, soft plastics, and a surprise - July 21 – Night 2
Guest speaker: Chad Howard (kayaks and kayak fishing)
Sessions: fish cleaning, catfish and carp fishing, water structures, casting practice, rods and reels
Door prizes - July 23 – Night 3
Guest speakers: Sheriff Jerry Asher and Mark Booth (Take Flight – Birds of Prey)
Sessions: bass fishing, panfishing, live bait, walleye fishing, casting practice
Door prizes - July 28 – Night 4
Guest speaker: Doug Sikora (crappie angler)
Sessions: fish cleaning, catfish and carp fishing, water structures, casting practice, knot tying
Door prizes - July 30 – Final Night
Guest speaker: John Martino (ice fishing presentation)
Sessions: bass fishing, panfishing, live bait, walleye fishing, casting practice, knot tying
Ends with door prizes and Grand Door Prize drawings
Graduation Tournament
Saturday, August 1, 2026
Kokomo Reservoir Park (500 East, Howard County)
- 5 AM: Boats launch
- 7 AM: Opening ceremonies (prayer, national anthem, sponsor recognition, rules)
- 8–11 AM: Fishing (2 kids per boat)
- 11 AM: Professional weigh-in
During and after weigh-in, a large cookout will be prepared by the cooking team (led by Steve Workman) and served by Kokomo Kiwanis for all participants, families, and volunteers.
All 100 kids graduate and receive medals. Awards are given for Most Fish, Biggest Fish, and Most Weight (by age group), along with special honors including the Joe Ford Award and the Mental Attitude Award.
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