Quick Details
Meeting Location: Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center in Homestead, FL
Date: January 10th, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM
Duration: 4 hours
Age Requirement: All participants must be 8 years or older; minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Vehicle: Our Institute bus can hold up to 14 passengers, including wheelchair-accessibility. The bus can secure two wheelchairs and is also equipped with a lift. Park entrance fees are included.
Important Note: Our vehicle can accommodate up to 2 wheelchairs. If you need one of these spots, please call us at 786-465-4058 to reserve in advance. The vehicle is also equipped with a lift for guests who can transfer to a seat from a wheelchair, or for guests using walkers.
Cost: Free for veterans and a guest. (park entrance fees included).
Important Information:
- At least one veteran must be part of your reservation.
- Fishing equipment and bait included.
- Snacks and beverages are provided.
- Make sure to read all the information below including the drop down menus to learn more about this trip.
- Before completing your booking, make sure to read our Cancellation Policy.
Join your instructor Ronald Green, a seasoned veteran fisherman, and a Naturalist for a special fishing experience designed for veterans and a guest, offering a chance to connect with nature, fellow service members, and the unique beauty of the Everglades. This free workshop includes all fishing equipment, bait, snacks, and beverages, and combines hands-on fishing with a guided visit to the historic Nike Missile Site and exploration of Everglades freshwater ecosystems. The program is accessible for wheelchairs and walkers.
About Your Instructor:
This day is a partnership with PayN 4 Ward, a faith-based, disabled veteran-led nonprofit organization dedicated to serving retirees, veterans, and their family members.
coordinating with other NPO’s to provide piscotorial therapy which is a component of recreation stress management.
Most recently they hosted an instructional fishing event for “His House” residents, which consisted of knot tying, casting, the use of live bait, and taught how to properly catch and release fish.
What to Expect:
- Expert Guidance: Led by Ronald Green, a seasoned veteran fisherman, along with a Naturalist who will guide you through the history of the Nike Missile Site.
- Skill Building: Practice responsible shore-based fishing techniques and learn to identify native fish species.
- Community & Relaxation: Enjoy a peaceful day outdoors connecting with fellow veterans and guests while experiencing the beauty of the Everglades.
- Equipment: All fishing equipment and bait are provided.
- Food: Snacks and beverages will be provided. Please call 786-465-4058 to let us know of any food allergies.
Details:
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Check-in: Begin the day at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center.
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Nike Missile Site Tour: Explore this Cold War relic with our naturalist, who will share the history and significance of the site.
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Guided Fishing Session: Enjoy a hands-on freshwater fishing experience at Long Pine Key, led by Ronald Green.
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Wrap-up: The program concludes back at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center.
Accessibility Note: Our vehicle fits up to 2 wheelchairs. Please call (786) 465-4058 to reserve a spot. A lift is available for guests who can transfer from a wheelchair or use a walker.
This workshop is more than fishing, it’s about connection, learning, and enjoying the beauty of the Everglades.
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This Everglades National Park tour begins at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center located at 40001 State Hwy 9336, Homestead, FL 33034. Type ‘Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center’ into your GPS to be brought to this location. It is the first visitor center at the Homestead entrance and is located before the entrance gates.
Upon arrival, please check-in with your Institute Naturalist by the flagpole outside of the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure.
You will then ride in our Institute Van to your tour locations. The trip will end at your last stop. You will then return to the Ernest F Coe Visitor Center at the end of the program.
- This Everglades National Park tour begins at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center located at 40001 State Hwy 9336, Homestead, FL 33034. Type ‘Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center’ into your GPS to be brought to this location. It is the first visitor center at the Homestead entrance and is located before the entrance gates.Upon arrival, please check-in with your Institute Naturalist by the flagpole outside of the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure.You will then ride in our Institute Van to your tour locations. The trip will end at your last stop. You will then return to the Ernest F Coe Visitor Center at the end of the program.
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We recommend bringing the following items for this tour:
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Snacks
- Refillable water bottle (we’ll have water in the van)
- Bug Repellent and/or bug jacket
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No printing necessary. You can even complete the waivers on your phone! Adults over the age of 18 must complete and submit their own waiver. Minors ages 17 and younger must have a parent or legal guardian complete and submit a waiver on behalf of the minor. There are separate waivers for adults and minors, please be sure you are completing the appropriate waiver. All minors must be accompanied by an adult. To complete the waiver process, you will need to confirm your email address through and email that will be sent by Smartwaiver.
If you have a medical condition described on the Medical Statement or any other condition that would be contrary to safe participation in any activities, you must provide documentation that you sought the advice of a physician prior to engaging in any activities.
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Is this event for veterans only?
Yes, this event is for veterans and their families, at least one veteran must be part of the booking and we’ll check ID’s before the program.
Is the tour ADA accessible?
Yes, our vehicle can fit up to 2 wheelchairs and has a lift for walkers and foldable wheelchairs. If you need one of the wheelchairs spots, please contact us (786) 465-4058 or email us at [email protected] to speak with a representative.
What kinds of wildlife will we see?
While we can’t guarantee sightings, it’s common to see wading birds, diving birds, raptors, alligators, fish, turtles, lizards, butterflies, and more.
Can I bring food with me?
Yes, we’ll provide snacks and beverages but feel free to bring your favorite snacks. If you have food allergies, please contact us (786) 465-4058 or email us at [email protected] to speak with a representative.
Does this trip get cancelled for weather?
Yes. The trip may be cancelled in case of persistent rain, thunder, or lightning for safety reasons.
Are restrooms available during the tour?
Yes. Restrooms are available at the start and end of the tour, and at Long Pine Key
Is fishing gear included?
Yes, we’re providing fishing gear and bait.