Get set for an O-FISH-ALLY awesome summer! Join us each week this summer to learn about ocean animals as we explore field techniques, look for and catch critters in beautiful Sarasota Bay and get inspired to protect the ocean. Find out what to bring and wear here. Pre-registration is required. 

Every Monday, we will focus on a different animal that calls Sarasota Bay home before we wade into the Bay for a scientific investigation. Join us all summer for fun in the sun. Please note it is not guaranteed that we will see the animal the class is themed around but we will definitely see and catch lots of their neighbors and learn all about where they fit into the ecosystem. We hope to SEA you there!

Details & Dates

Who: Ages 6-14 with one free adult chaperone

Where: 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota FL 34236

Fee: $30 per child and required parent/guardian chaperone ($27 members)

When: Mondays, June 8 – July 27, 10:00-11:30 a.m.

  • June 08: All About Our Bay-bies
  • June 15: Ray Day
  • June 22: Sharks in Our Backyard 
  • June 29: Seashell Soiree
  • July 13: Inky Investigations
  • July 20: Saving Our Seas
  • July 27: Underwater, Upside-down, and All Around

REGISTER HERE!

All programs will consist of wading into the water (ankle to waist deep, depending on your height and the tide) to catch small animals but the focus of the class will depend on the theme. Please come prepared to get wet and be in the sun. Closed-toe shoes are required for all Mote water programs. Your confirmation email will include additional information on what to bring and wear. Please note that this class takes place at Mote’s research laboratory located on City Island.

Questions? Email spowers@mote.org

Important Notes: Price represents the student plus one chaperone per family (required). ONLY registered participants are allowed to attend (no younger or older non-registered siblings)

Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) admission is NOT included. Please visit mote.org/visit for information and to reserve tickets.

Weather

For these field explorations, we will be outside for the entirety of the program. The program will still run should inclement weather or other conditions warrant the need to be inside. We will have alternate activities for each week’s theme or offer a credit for a future program so you never miss out on the fun. Meeting time and location remains the same, whether class is held outside or not.

Mote reserves the right to update or modify any program elements as necessary. Modification of a program element by Mote does not constitute grounds for a refund.

Prohibited Items/Activities

The following items are not permitted on Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium grounds for the safety of our animals and guests: weapons or firearms per Florida Statutes Section 790.06(12) {firearms are not allowed at events with alcohol provisions}, or any hazardous items or materials, balloons, plastic straws, or any other items deemed to be a safety hazard or that may be used to engage in prohibited activities.  Smoking and vaping is also prohibited.