If you think about challenges you’ve encountered in your fishing journey, somewhere back in the past was some experienced person or event that got you started. Well, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is offering an opportunity to pass it on to the next generation.
The agency will offer a virtual class on how to Become A Saltwater Fishing Instructor on Feb. 18, the second of two classes to be held in the coming months.
Pam Corwin, Saltwater Recreational Fishing Outreach Biologist, said anyone interested should register through eventbrite.com. Volunteers age 18 and older are asked to help lead saltwater fishing clinics and participate in SCDNR fishing related education programs, which also include assisting with Youth Fishing Tournaments and Youth Fishing Rodeos.
To become an instructor, you must take the virtual training course offered by the agency, pass a SLED background check and participate in at least two fishing events a year.
“It’s a lot of fun. We always have a crew, with one person being the leader,” Corwin said. “We have one individual who loves knot tying.We have another who is very good in fish ID and fish handling. It’s not just you and 20 people. Depending on the size of the class, we usually have four to six instructors.”
Corwin said the training, scheduled for a two-hour session, includes what types of clinic are taught and what is expected of instructors. She said after the first year of working with the agency, instructors receive a name tag and a shirt with the volunteer logo.
In 2025, the agency conducted 55 saltwater fishing clinics, one crabbing clinic, 15 classes (no fishing afterward), 12 big events such as the Haddrell’s Point Fishing Expo and SEWE, three fishing rodeos (catch and release) and three youth tournaments. Corwin also said the agency is looking at adding more advanced classes such as fly fishing.
Visit dnr.sc.gov/aquaticed/instructor/ for more information or follow the agency on Facebook or Instagram.
Charleston Boat Show Kicks Off Boating Season
The boating season in Charleston begins Jan. 23-25 with the Charleston Boat Show, now in its 46th season, at the Charleston Convention Center, located at 5001 Coliseum Drive, North Charleston.
Show hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Jan. 23 and Jan. 24 and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Jan. 25. To view ticket prices and for further information, visit thecharlestonboatshow.com. Free parking is available in the parking garage as well as Lots A, B and C.
In addition to hundreds of boats representing all the major manufacturers, there are a lot of other activities for show visitors — fishing and tackle experts, marine service providers, outdoor lifestyle vendors, educational resources and guides. Kids fishing clinics hosted by Capt. Don Dingman of Hook the Future also returns with kids getting a free rod and reel combo. Other family-friendly activities and experiences include live music and food trucks as well as especially for children.
But the main focus is the opportunity to check out the latest boat offerings with special deals available. You will find sport cruisers, motor and express yachts, sportfishing boats, center console fishing boats, bass boats, bowriders, deck and aluminum boats, ski and pontoon boats, flats skiffs, bay boats and runabouts.
