February 19, 2013, Gulf Shores (GSA) and Orange Beach, Al. (OBA)– Charter captains and deckhands along Alabama’s Gulf Coast will have the opportunity to participate in the upcoming Certified Fisher Invested in Sustainable Harvests (CFISH). This workshop will focus on topics that will enhance participants’ skills and knowledge of important sustainability fishing practices and customer service standards.

The workshop will take place at the Orange Beach City Council Chambers on Wednesday, Feb. 27 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Registration is available online at tinyurl.com/bje2b3v until Friday, Feb. 22, and the cost to participate is $75.

“This workshop offers tools and resources for charter fishing captains and deckhands to be an informed and positive influence for their customers and ambassadors for our coastal communities,” said Chandra Wright of the Nature Tourism Initiative. “We are excited to bring this educational opportunity to our local charter fishing fleet and continue to help our local businesses and support sustainable fishing practices.”

This day-long program will hold several informative sessions, during which participants will learn valuable information on how to make the customers’ experience more enjoyable. Learn more about the customers and about customer service with Five Star Southern Hospitality. Also, individuals will receive training on various aspects of fishing, such as venting, identifying species, sustainability and gear.

“As an avid fisherman and tourism professional, fishing plays a key role in our guests’ vacation experience, and we are thrilled to work with local scientists and educators in presenting this workshop,” said Herb Malone, president/CEO of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism (CVB). “The goal is to give captains and deckhands an opportunity to enhance their skill sets not only in the fishing industry but also in customer service.”

To find out more information about this program, please contact Chandra Wright at cwright@gulfshores.com or 251-974-4634.

Additional online resources may be found at www.agccvb.org/business-of-nature.