Outdoor Chattanooga’s winter workshops return to offer a series of classroom-based, outdoor-education, and skill-building workshops that are free and open to the public.
No reservations or experience are required to attend. Workshops take place Thursdays from 6:30-8 p.m. through Feb. 28 at Outdoor Chattanooga in Coolidge Park (200 River Street).
Jan. 10
Leave No Trace
This workshop will cover the preparation, planning, skills, and techniques essential to leaving no trace. LNT educator Riley Kurtts will also discuss what to do when nature calls.
Jan. 17
Fishing 101
Learn the basics of fishing from local expert Capt. Richard Simms, a certified U.S. Coast Guard Captain and owner of Scenic City Fishing Charters. Capt. Simms will cover everything beginning anglers need to know, including equipment, required licenses, places to fish from shore, and how and what to fish for in different seasons.
Jan. 24
Map and Compass
Learn the basics of how to navigate using the “old school” method of map and compass. Maps and compasses are available for use during the class.
Jan. 31
Bike Maintenance 101
Outdoor Chattanooga’s bicycle guru, James Eubank, will demonstrate how to prevent and fix a flat tire and allow time for practice. Tools will be provided. Bring your bike or use one of theirs.
Feb. 7
Bike Maintenance 202
Eubank will demonstrate how to tune a rear derailleur and allow time for practice. Tools will be provided. Bring your bike or use one of theirs.
Feb. 14
Search and Rescue: Ropes & Wrangling
This workshop will highlight the methods and techniques used by local safety and rescue teams to locate and extract people in need. The class will also cover the training requirements teams undergo to perform their duties, as well as the vehicles and equipment they use.
Feb. 21
Search and Rescue: Dog & Drones
Learn how search and rescue teams manage large-scale missions utilizing infrared drone equipment and canines. The presenters will identify and discuss the difference between urban and wilderness search and rescue operations. If time permits, there will be a dog and drone demonstration.
February 28
Fishing Secrets
During this workshop, Capt. Simms will discuss the techniques intermediate to advanced anglers can use to catch some of the most popular game fish in the Greater Chattanooga area including Crappie, Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Blue Catfish, and Bluegill.