“We are proud to join in this cooperative educational effort to provide angling youth with a solid foundation in warm-water aquatic ecosystems and their management as they apply to bass and bass angling,” said DCNR’s Bureau of State Parks Director Roger Fickes. “Participants will improve their stewardship skills and leave the school better equipped to serve as leaders in conservation. They also have a heck of a lot of fun learning.”

The five-day/four-night program will be Sunday, July 17, through Thursday afternoon, July 21, on Lake Perez at the Pennsylvania State University’s Stone Valley Recreation Area.

“Students will learn from experts and professionals in various conservation fields from across Pennsylvania and the nation,” said PFBC Executive Director Douglas Austen. “Instruction will be geared toward youth who already possess some basic outdoor skills and fishing experience but want to further develop those skills and learn more about bass angling.”

The Youth Bass Anglers Conservation School is a cooperative effort by DCNR’s Bureau of State Parks, the PFBC, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Pennsylvania State University, Marsh Creek Bass Club and the Pennsylvania Chapter, Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.).

Application and enrollment will begin Monday, March 1, for students ages 14-17. Study topics will include fish biology, fisheries management, habitat improvement, boating safety, fishing skills and techniques, fish and boating law enforcement, fisheries and conservation careers and tournament angling. Other conservation-related and hands-on activities are also planned.

Student applicants must submit a written essay on the topics, “What fishing means to me,” and the importance of conservation, as well as a letter of recommendation from a teacher or close associate. A total of 20 students will be selected.