FLORIDA LIFESTYLE
lures. All are great fun for fledgling fisherman to help avoid the frustration of tangled lines and keeps it safe. Young ones often have little patience for fishing, so plan other activities to make the adventure enjoyable. When it’s time for older children to try their hand at boating, paddle boarding, or kayaking on their own, you’ll be much more confident in their independent abilities if you’ve instilled best practices concerning water safety and common sense. Take the extra step to enroll them in Certified-Instructor training. They will learn a lot about technique and safety, and you’ll enjoy greater peace of mind knowing they’ve received the best training. Before you hand them the wheel of a motorized boat, know that in Florida, any motorboat operator born after January 1, 1988 requires a boating safety class; something everyone can benefit from. There is no minimum age requirement, and anyone, including out-ofstate visitors, can take it online at: http://www.boatus.org/florida/ or https://www.boat-ed.com/florida/.
At 8 years old her father said she is the youngest girl to have a record in 2 lb line class! The Better Off Wet Crew had the pleasure of going fishing with her father Mike. We commend the Shramko family for sharing the beautiful Florida outdoors with us! Better Off Wet Magazine regularly brings you updated information about boating, fishing, safety, local events, classified sales, and all things marine for your Florida waterways’ enjoyment. Stay current with your free subscription. Get it today and don’t forget: you’re Better Off Wet.
Water sports, like other activities, require certain skill sets that develop with guidance, coaching, and, of course, the added element of safety instruction. Keep your expectations aligned with your kids’ physical capabilities and maturity levels. Keep them actively involved to learn how to safely enjoy a lifetime of enjoyment on Florida waterways’ wonderland. Photos courtesy of: Patrice Shramko Even though Lauren Shramko is only 8 years old, she currently holds 5 IGFA Women’s Line Class World Records (Butterfly Peacock 2 lb, 4 lb, 6 lb, 16 lb, and 20 lb Line Class). BETTEROFFWET.COM 33
