From Angling to Conservation
An Exclusive Outdoor Program Tailored for Young Homeschoolers!
Limited to 10 passionate students per Program Year, offering a unique and immersive learning experience
Who We Are
Founded in 2014 by Capt. Sam Baker, the Sol Margin Fishing & Conservation Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the community and fellow anglers about habitat and wildlife conservation. We focus on safe angling techniques and responsible stewardship, working closely with other organizations to preserve estuaries and other vital habitats. Our mission is to raise awareness about habitat protection and environmental health while fostering a love for fishing and the great outdoors.
MEET CAPTAIN SAM
Captain Sam Baker, founder and president of the Sol Margin Fishing & Conservation Foundation, is a USCG-licensed Master Captain and lifelong fishing enthusiast based in St. Augustine, Florida. His nonprofit leads vital initiatives like Keep St. Johns County Beautiful and the St. Johns County Beach Stewards program. He holds various certifications including training from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), GTMNERR, FYCCN, FL Sea Grant, among others.
As a homeschooling father himself, Captain Sam is launching the SMFCF Outdoor Education Program for homeschoolers, designed to provide an immersive and intimate educational experience. He is no stranger to mentoring youth and helps guide others in becoming responsible stewards of their environment, exemplifying how one person’s dedication can significantly impact conservation and the well-being of individuals and communities.
Partners
Program Description
Sol Margin Fishing & Conservation Foundation is proud to introduce an exclusive outdoor education program designed for homeschoolers ages 10-14 (*9 yrs old optional). This comprehensive program focuses on environmental stewardship and marine science, with a special emphasis on fishing and safe angling practices. Limited to only 10 passionate students per program year, this program offers a unique and immersive learning experience.
Program Highlights
Hands-On Learning
Engage in real-world research and data collection.
Expert Guidance
Learn from Captain Sam and other certified professionals.
Unique Experiences
Participate in fishing lessons, kayak trip, and excursions.
Community Impact
Become a citizen scientist and contribute to environmental stewardship.
What Will Students Learn
Research & Data Collection
Hands-on experience in scientific research.
Fishing Regulations & Safe Angling Practices
Learn the rules and techniques for safe and responsible fishing.
Environmental Stewardship
Understand the importance of protecting our natural habitats.
Wildlife Conservation
Focus on the conservation of sea turtles and other marine life.
Outdoor Skills & Safety
Gain essential skills for safe outdoor activities.
Kayak Safety
Learn essential safety practices for kayaking in various environments.
Career Exploration & Citizen Science
Discover potential careers in marine science and how to contribute as a citizen scientist.
Technology in Research
Learn how technology aids scientific research.
What’s Included
- Hat
- Buff
- T-Shirt
- Rod & Reel Combo
- Tackle Box
- Entry fees to different locations
- Fishing Permits
- Fishing Clinics
- Swag Bag
- Two 4-hour long fishing lessons on the Intracoastal (Valued at $1200)
- 4 Tickets to End of Banquet
What’s Not Included
- Transportation
- Lunch
What To Bring
- Lunch
- Dress for weather
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunblock + Bugspray
- Backpack
- Composition or 1-subject notebook
- Pen/Pencil
- *Medication (student must be able to self-administer)
Dates
- September - April
- 1st and 3rd Mondays of the month with a few exceptions.
- Be sure to look at the calendar dates below.
| Date |
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Times
- 9-1pm
- Location subject to change based on the weather. Times may change depending on activity.
Choose The Perfect Plan
PEP
*Registration is Non-Refundable
$
1000
Semester
-
$15 Registration
Learn more
* Must Request Service in EMA Market Place First by searching "Sol Margin Fishing". Once the request is accepted, a code will be sent to you register.
Popular
Testimonials
"Our daughter, Addison, has always loved the outdoors, but the SMFCF Outdoor Education Program took her passion to a whole new level. Under Captain Sam's expert guidance, she not only learned about marine science and conservation but also developed practical skills in safe angling and environmental stewardship. The hands-on experience and personalized attention made a huge difference. Addison now talks excitedly about the research and data collection she participated in, and she even shares her knowledge about fishing regulations and marine life conservation with our family. We couldn’t be happier with the program—it’s truly a unique and enriching experience."
Jess M.
Parent
"Enrolling our son, Jake, in the SMFCF Clinic was one of the best decisions we’ve made for his homeschooling journey. The small class size ensured he received individual attention and made lasting friendships with like-minded peers. Jake's favorite part was the fishing lessons and the clinics where he got to learn directly from Captain Sam. The program didn’t just teach him about fishing; it instilled a sense of responsibility towards our environment and wildlife. Jake now takes pride in being a young citizen scientist and actively participates in conservation efforts. The knowledge and experiences he gained are invaluable, and we highly recommend this program to any homeschooling family."
Lisa P.
Parent
"Captain Sam Baker provides a wide variety of outdoor experiences for youth through multiple platforms. I have thoroughly enjoyed having him lead the young men in our Thrive Outside/Ribault Sportsman's Association group over the past few years. The young men have learned to kayak, fish, hike, and other activities designed to broaden their horizons. He teaches in such a way that makes learning easy and fun. Increasing their knowledge of the importance of protecting and conserving outdoor green spaces has been an amazing experience. I highly recommend Captain Baker for providing growth, exposure, integrity, and an overall quality learning experience for all."
Kelvin L.
Youth Leader
“The professionalism and passion Captain Sam and the Sol Margin Fishing & Conservation Foundation has on education and preserving Florida’s natural resources is hard to beat. From spreading the word on offshore topics such as reef fish barotrauma mitigation to coastal topics like marine debris, folks can learn about a range of marine issues across the landscape and find out how they can make a difference.”
Michael S.
Fisheries Agent
"We have had the pleasure of working with Sam Baker beginning with our move to Florida in 2019.What started out as doing beach cleanups to help fill out our days turned in to so much more.Along with beach clean ups with our kids turned into clean up and environmental education with our grandkids.The kids have attended his fishing rodeos and not only have become good anglers but responsible stewards for our community, lakes, and streams.Sam's commitment to teaching children and adults about stewardship to our wildlife environment is outstanding.We walk away with more knowledge every time we attend a program that he hosts.Sam is a true steward to our environment and his commitment to sharing with others is so valuable to continuing education and keeping our environment healthy, prosperous, and thriving."
Rich & Connie S.
Grandparents
"I partnered with Capt. Sam to teach a 3-day youth fishing summer day camp—it was a fabulous experience (for me and for the participants!) Capt. Sam was very knowledgeable about the topic and did a great job keeping the kids engaged and interested. I've shared his contact information with several of my colleagues!"
Dr. Maia M.
Asst. Director
FAQ
Yes, this is a drop-off program. There will be at least two instructors, and the program is capped at 10 children.
Yes, we will have a sign-up sheet for two additional chaperones per event. The parent will be required to have a background check to ensure a safe environment.
Yes, only one parent can accompany their child.
Yes, we are an official provider.
Of course! There is no plenty for paying in advance.
No, swimming is not a requirement. However, some of our activities, such as kayaking and boating, will be in or around water. For these activities, your child will be required to wear a life vest.
Most activities are held in St. Johns County, ranging from North Ponte Vedra Beach to Bings Landing in Flagler County.
No, your child just needs transportation to each location.
Yes, we will have an end-of-the-year banquet where participants will receive a program certificate. Four tickets to this banquet are included in your child's tuition. If you need to purchase additional banquet tickets, please contact Capt. Sam around that time.