support our Teen fishing apprenticesHIP

At Colossal Academy Jacksonville, our Fishing Apprenticeship is a hands-on program for 10th–12th graders that blends academics with real-world experience in inshore and fly fishing, conservation, and small business development.

Students train directly with professional captains, log hours on the water, learn the business side of fishing, and work toward earning their captain’s licenses — all while still in high school.

This program was built for students who are ready to work, launch businesses, and build lives outdoors. We’re here to channel that drive into real careers, right now.

Fishing Apprenticeship Program: Investing in Our Youth, Coast, and Community

For Students:
Hands-on experience, certifications, and career pathways — from charter captain to marine biologist to entrepreneur. Students gain real-world skills that connect passion with purpose.

For the City:
Jacksonville’s coastal economy depends on a healthy marine ecosystem. This program equips the next generation to sustain and grow our outdoor industries through responsible practices.

For the Community:
With mentorship, hard work, and stewardship at its core, the program builds young leaders who protect our waterways, give back through service, and inspire others to stay connected to nature and community.

Whether you’re a fellow outdoorsman, educator, parent, or conservationist — we invite you to be part of something meaningful. 

Offer your time or resources - Fishermen, entrepreneurs, or any individual, organization or business in fishing, boating or water science have skills our students need.

Donate or Become a Sponsor 

Share this page with people you know who might be interested in something new and meaningful.

In a time when teens are struggling to transition to adulthood and the workforce, this is an opportunity to support youth who want to work, want to work in nature with their hands and contribute to their community through small business.

Let’s Raise Up the Next Generation

• Your business featured on all program shirts, hats, and uniforms
• Logo and link on our website homepage and program page
• Banner signage at the school 
• Shout-outs and tags in all program-related social media
• Your name on school letterhead related to the program
• VIP invitation to school events, field demos, and photo ops
• Recognition as a founding partner in all press, media, and community outreach

• Logo on shirts and website
• Business name in newsletters and social posts
• Signage at school events and trips
• Sponsor shout-out in our end-of-year video

• Listed on our program website and social media
• Included in supporter thank-you post
• Framed certificate of sponsorship for your shop or office