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NewsFOX 13 Tampa BayJuly 31, 2026Hillsborough County

First Mate Academy Offers Boating and Fishing Skills for Youth in Palm Harbor

Photo: FOX 13 Tampa Bay

First Mate Academy, based at Speckled Trout Marina in Palm Harbor, provides seasonal camps and year-round training for children to learn boating safety, fishing techniques, and teamwork. Founded by Captain Andy Benedict, the program emphasizes marine conservation and personal development through hands-on experience on the water.

Youth ProgramsBoatingFishingOutdoor EducationPalm Harbor
Read the full story at FOX 13 Tampa Bay

Why It Matters

The academy provides a local educational resource for youth to gain maritime skills and outdoor experience in the Tampa Bay area.

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 and 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 conservation.

Who's Mentioned

locationTampa Bay“The geographic area where the academy operates.”locationSpeckled Trout Marina“The base of operations for First Mate Academy in Palm Harbor.”OrganizationFirst Mate Academy“A youth-focused boating and fishing education program.”locationPalm Harbor“The city where the academy is located.”PersonAndy Benedict“Founder of First Mate Academy and charter captain.”