Fish Camps Teach Youngsters the Basics

Youngsters from 10 to 14 years of age are invited to participate in one of several fishing camps being held across the Treasure Valley this summer. Conducted by Idaho Fish and Game, in cooperation with city parks departments, the four-day camps will teach youths the basics of fishing, with an emphasis on excursions to local fishing spots. "Let's face it, there are dozens of other activities out there competing for a youngster's time, many of them destructive," Fish and Game conservation educator Evin Oneale said. "The Fish On! fish camps provide an opportunity for kids to get started in a fun, healthy, outdoor activity that can become a lifelong passion." While the Boise-area Fish On! camps are already full, limited space remains available for camps in Nampa and Caldwell. The Nampa camps will be June 25 through 28 and July 9 through 12. The Caldwell camp will be June 18 through 21. Contact the Nampa Recreation Center at 468-5858 or the Caldwell Parks and Recreation Department at 455-3060 for more information or to register a youngster for a workshop. Hands-on learning is the focus of the camps. "Getting kids hooked on fishing for life hinges on getting kids outdoors and getting them on the water, fishing," Oneale said. "As such, class time is minimal during the workshop, with most of our time spent at area ponds, fishing."