Instruction will be offered Sunday through Thursday, July 16-20, on Lake Perez at the Pennsylvania State University’s Stone Valley Recreation Area. The school is sponsored by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.

“This cooperative educational effort gives angling youth a solid foundation in warm-water aquatic ecosystems, their management, and how they affect black bass and bass angling,” said DCNR Secretary Michael DiBerardinis. “Participants will improve their stewardship skills, leave the school better equipped to serve as leaders in conservation, and have a heck of a lot of fun learning.”

The five-day/four-night program will address topics like fishery 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 also are planned.

“Students will learn from experts and professionals in various conservation fields from across Pennsylvania and the nation,” said PFBC Executive Director Dr. 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, PA Bass Federation Inc., U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Pennsylvania State University and Marsh Creek Bass Club.

“The camp is a combination of non-stop, hands-on fun-filled activities ranging from boat safety and basic angling skills to fish biology and habitat management,” said PABF Conservation Director Bill Reichert. “Learning fishing skills from a dozen volunteers and introduction into aquatic science by professional staff offer the students insights into opportunities to become conservation and environmental leaders.”

Application and enrollment will begin Wednesday, March 1, for students ages 14-17. Applicants must submit a written one-page essay addressing “What fishing means to me;” the importance of conservation; and why they want to attend the school, as well as a letter of recommendation from a teacher or close associate. A total of 20 students will be selected.