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The University of Tampa will host a children’s fishing tournament on Sunday, Oct. 26, at 8:30 a.m., run by Associate Professor of Environmental Studies Bridgette Froeschke’s Spatial Ecology Lab. The free event will take place on the west side of the Hillsborough River between the Cass Building and Plant Park.

The tournament, titled the ICK Fishing Tournament (Invasive and Cichlid Kid Fishing Tournament), will teach youth ages 5-15 about the role of invasive species in the community. Around 50 children will participate in activities across five stations: two stations for rod-and-reel fishing along the river; one station for using minnow traps to catch invasive fish in Plant Creek; one station for educational games; and one station that will lead to a scavenger hunt to discover invasive animals around the campus. 

Prizes donated by local stakeholders will be awarded to those who catch the highest variety of invasive fish, the highest quantity of invasive fish, and the invasive fish with the largest size.

“I created the ICK Fishing Tournament to give kids a fun and free way to learn about marine science and conservation. I wanted to show them that science isn’t just something done in a lab; it can happen right here in Tampa Bay,” Froeschke said. “Through hands-on fishing and real sampling techniques, participants learn about invasive fish species and the important role they can play in protecting our local waters. My goal each year is to spark curiosity, build confidence and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.”