top of page
6E08CFE9-BD1B-4592-8A28-E486901FA95C.jpeg

Your Guide to Overnight Camp

North Florida Fishing Camp at Jacksonville University.

Everything you need to pack, prepare, and get exited for an unforgettable week on the water.

Welcome to Camp!

Camp is almost here — and we’re counting down the days!

 

Whether this is your child’s first time with us or they’re a returning angler, we’re thrilled to have them join North Florida Fishing Camp.

 

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know — what to pack, how to prepare, camp expectations, arrival details, and even how to order extra gear.

 

Our mission is to provide a safe, exciting, and unforgettable experience while teaching kids about fishing, teamwork, and respect for the marine environment.

9FA6F3FB-4780-4151-856F-5C5AAC56F78D.jpeg

Packing List

🛒.  Need to Travel Light? Rent Camp Essentials

Flying in or just want to keep packing simple? We offer convenient rentals for key camp items like pillows, towels, sheets, and more. Everything you rent will be waiting in your camper’s dorm room when they arrive — no extra packing required! It’s a great option for out-of-town families or anyone who wants an easier travel day.

IMG_0835.jpeg

Flying in?

IMG_0838.jpeg

✈️ Flying to Camp Alone? We’ve Got You Covered

If your camper is flying solo into Jacksonville, we’re happy to coordinate airport pickup and drop-off. We’ve handled many unaccompanied minors over the years and will make sure your child is met at the gate (if needed) and safely brought to camp. Each airline has its own rules for unaccompanied minors, so please check with them first to confirm what’s required.

 

Once your flight is booked, send us the itinerary at joecarraway@tidesfishingcompany.com and feel free to call or text (904) 860-8361 with any questions.

 

 

📋 Info the Airline May Request:

    •    Name: TBD

    •    Phone: (904) 860-8361

    •    Email: joecarraway@tidesfishingcompany.com

    •    Camp Name: North Florida Fishing Camp

    •    Location: Jacksonville University

    •    Address: 2800 University Blvd N, Jacksonville, FL 32211

Camper Expectations & Rules

At North Florida Fishing Camp, we want every camper to have an unforgettable experience — one filled with adventure, growth, and great memories. To make that happen, we set clear expectations that create a fun, safe, and respectful environment for everyone.

 

Please read through the following rules with your camper before arrival.

🧭 General Behavior

  • Be kind and respectful to all campers, counselors, captains, and staff

  • Stay with your assigned group and always notify a counselor before leaving

  • Keep dorm rooms tidy and clean up after yourself in common areas

  • Follow all camp rules and daily schedules

  • Show care and appreciation for nature, fish, and the marine environment

🛥️ On-the-Water Safety

Fishing from professional charter boats is a highlight of camp — but it comes with real responsibility. Campers must understand that the captain is in charge while on the water, and listening is not optional.

 

For everyone’s safety:

 

  • Follow all instructions from the captain and counselors immediately

  • Stay seated or in designated areas unless directed otherwise

  • No horseplay, running, or unsafe behavior at any time

  • Keep hands, feet, and gear inside the boat

  • Wear your life jacket when instructed — no exceptions

 

Failure to follow these rules can result in removal from boating activities or dismissal from camp. Safety always comes first.

📵 Electronics Policy

While campers may bring a phone, this is an outdoor-focused camp, and we are intentional about minimizing screen time. We want campers to fully engage with the environment, their group, and the camp experience — not be distracted by devices.

 

  • Phones may be used only for fishing photos and during dorm downtime

  • Phones are not permitted during activities, meals, or on boats unless approved

  • Counselors will take plenty of photos of each camper’s fishing experience, including their catches, and we will share those with families after camp

  • Any inappropriate use or content will result in the device being held until pickup, and parents will be notified

🚫 Not Allowed at Camp

  • Energy drinks of any kind

  • Nut products (for the safety of campers with allergies)

  • Weapons, vapes, fireworks, or anything unsafe

  • Disrespectful, aggressive, or exclusionary behavior

⚠️ Addressing Behavioral Issues

We know that kids make mistakes — and we always approach misbehavior as an opportunity for learning and growth. However, we also maintain clear boundaries to ensure the safety and enjoyment of every camper.

Here’s how we address serious or repeated behavior issues:

Step 1:

The camper will be spoken to directly and clearly reminded of the rule or expectation. We’ll ensure they understand what went wrong and how to correct it.

 

Step 2:

If the behavior continues, we will contact the camper’s parent or guardian to discuss the issue. We’ll ask that the parent talk with their camper and help reinforce expectations.

 

Step 3:

If problems persist, or if a camper shows ongoing disregard for safety, respect, or rules — especially on the boats — they will be sent home from camp immediately.

No refunds will be given for campers dismissed due to behavior.

💊 Medications & Camper Health

To ensure your camper stays safe, healthy, and focused throughout the week, we have a clear system in place for managing all medications.

 

🔐 Medication Drop-Off

 

All medications must be turned in to the camp directors at check-in. Joe’s wife, who is a key member of our camp leadership team, handles all camper medications personally.

    •    Medications are securely stored in a locked location in our private staff room

    •    She will administer medications at the appropriate times as directed

 

Please clearly label each medication with your child’s name, dosage, and instructions, and let us know if any items require refrigeration or specific care.

 

 

🧠 Share What We Should Know

 

We encourage parents to communicate openly with us about any medical, behavioral, or emotional conditions that might help us support your child. This includes allergies, learning differences, anxieties, attention support needs, or any special accommodations we should be aware of. Our goal is to make camp a safe and positive experience for everyone.

 

 

⚠️ Important Note on Daily Medications

 

Due to the complexity, pace, and structure of this camp — which includes early mornings, boating, outdoor exposure, and group dynamics — we strongly ask that campers remain on their normal school-year medications during camp. This is not the right time to experiment with “time off” from daily medications, as it can significantly affect their ability to stay engaged, respectful, and safe during all activities.

14CB5965-9863-410A-828B-10EFD8060E07.jpeg
bottom of page