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NewsFox 13 News (WTVT) — All NewsJuly 31, 2026Hillsborough

First Mate Academy Teaches Boating and Fishing Skills to Youth

First Mate Academy, based in Palm Harbor, offers seasonal camps and year-round training for young people to learn boating safety, fishing techniques, and marine conservation. The program emphasizes teamwork, responsibility, and hands-on experience on the water.

youth programsboatingfishingoutdoor educationPalm Harbor
Read the full story at Fox 13 News (WTVT) — All News

Why It Matters

The academy provides a local educational resource for youth in the Tampa Bay area to gain vocational boating skills and environmental awareness.

Key Facts

  • First Mate Academy is founded and led by Captain Andy Benedict.
  • The academy operates out of Speckled Trout Marina in Palm Harbor.
  • The program offers both seasonal camps and a year-round, curriculum-based academy.
  • Students learn boat-launching procedures, marine terminology, and safety practices.
  • Hands-on instruction includes operating trolling motors, power poles, catching bait, throwing cast nets, and rigging tackle.
  • The program maintains a ratio of six students to two instructors on a 20.5-foot boat.
  • The curriculum includes education on fishing regulations and marine resource protection.

Who's Mentioned

locationTampa Bay“Geographic area where the academy operates.”locationSpeckled Trout Marina“Operating base for the academy.”organizationFirst Mate Academy“A youth boating and fishing education program.”locationPalm Harbor“Location of the academy and Speckled Trout Marina.”personAndy Benedict“Founder of First Mate Academy and captain.”