So much of my own life has been spent outside and immersed in nature that I found it difficult to grasp the notion of learning about the outdoors online through a computer.

When I first tried it myself, I missed the wild variety of sounds, smells, sensations, and the feeling of bugs biting. Okay, maybe that bug bite part is a definite advantage of online learning.

Three anglers on a boat deck hold up a big fish they caught in the Channel Islands. (Courtesy photo)
Showing off one that didn’t get away during a Channel Islands fishing excursion. (Courtesy photo)

I teach fishing classes at Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) in the evenings, and I’ve learned that many people lead very busy lives, and it is best for them to learn all they can in advance of an outing such as fishing or other complex sports.

The level of preparation derived from taking a class gives them a much better chance of having a fun and productive fishing trip when they have the time to go.

Taking my class online rather than coming to the classroom is what seems to work for many people. Fortunately, SBCC at the Schott Center in downtown Santa Barbara put together a special classroom where a hybrid class can be taught.

What makes it hybrid is that a class can be offered online with all the technology needed, and there are classroom chairs and tables for folks who want to come to class and learn more intimately. Attend whichever way makes the most sense to you.

A deep-sea fishing class starts up 6-7 p.m. Monday, April 1 and runs six consecutive weeks with the last meeting on Monday, May 6.

People who are interested in learning more about deep sea fishing from boats and watercraft of all sizes have the option of learning online or in-person. There are only so many seats in the classroom, but lots of people can sign up for the online version.
While perusing the classes offered by SBCC, you may find other classes of interest.

The Extended Learning Program of SBCC does a fantastic job of dreaming up class topics of interest to people who find it fun and rewarding to add to their knowledge and skills. I feel blessed to work with these professionals who bring so many great learning opportunities to our community.

To register for classes, visit https://sbcc.augusoft.net/ and click on Click to Register. Registering will give you a student ID number. Keep that number because it will allow you to register for classes.

After registering, find the search box and class ID or online class number, which then takes you to a page where you can sign up.

If you are already registered in the SBCC system, just log in and search for the class ID or online course number.

Capt. David Bacon is a boating safety consultant and expert witness, with a background in high-tech industries and charter boat ownership and operation. He teaches classes for Santa Barbara City College and, with a lifelong interest in wildlife, writes outdoors columns for Noozhawk and other publications. The opinions expressed are his own.