Big Man Big Heart Teach a Kid to Fish Event
Big Man Big Heart is putting together a fantastic event this Summer. Founder, Dillan Gibbons, has been inspired by his love of fishing, one of the tenets in his life that has kept him grounded and on a path toward success. Faith, Family, Football, and FISHING. He wants to share this important life skill and his passion for this recreational pursuit with local at-risk kids of all ages from The Boys and Girls Club of Tallahassee. Dillan wants to make this dream a reality for 50-60 local underprivileged children. He truly wants to inspire kids to love fishing so that they can have a recreational interest that will keep them focused and less likely to be distracted by the pitfalls in life, can provide sustenance to help feed themselves and their families and bring some joy, solace, and positivity to their lives. He has been sponsored by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and they have promised to bring at least 50 officers to this event as well as an airboat, a skiff, other marine equipment, and even a live alligator for the kids to see up close and personal. Having the officers present serves two functions – educating the children about the rules regarding fishing and the importance of conservation and having the children interact with law enforcement officers in a positive setting that will leave a lasting impression on them.
This special event is being planned for a date to be determined in June or July at a stocked private lake outside of Tallahassee. Dillan along with some of his Florida State teammates and staff members will meet the kids from the Boys and Girls Club of Tallahassee along with the FWC officers for a day of Fishing, Food, and Fun. Dillan and the FWC officers will put on a fishing clinic for the kids – teaching them how to rig their lines, use appropriate baits for the area and identify productive fishing spots while remaining within FWC guidelines. Dillan will also have guest appearances from local fishing celebrities Luke Norman, Devyn Gibson, and Ke’Mari Cooper from the YouTube series “Fishing with Norm.” The kids will be provided with a rod and reel combo along with a tackle box equipped with the necessary gear and artificial baits. A catered lunch will be provided. The fundraising goal for this initiative will be set at $10,000.00.
