Not everyone grew up in a family where they learned to hunt or fish. Many opportunities exist for kids to learn these activities, but no program has been geared specifically for adults to learn. Yet there are many parents or other adults, young or old, who wish to get involved but don’t know how to begin. That interest may be driven by wanting to take your kids or grandkids fishing. It may be driven by interest in harvesting your own organic, locally grown, free range fish or game to cook a unique meal. It may also be that you just feel a yearning to learn these skills, spend quality time in the outdoors with friends and family, or enjoy the solitude of a day afield.
Sportsmen’s Campfire is a program to help newcomers learn about hunting and fishing in an informal social setting. For each meeting, a handful of sportsmen and women will be on hand to introduce you to skills and discuss what you need to know about equipment and technique to get started. Just as many current sportspersons learned “around the campfire” with family, this is an opportunity to learn from others who welcome new people to enjoy these outdoor activities.
With the beginning of summer, the first meeting will cover an introduction to fishing. An area tackle shop owner will discuss rods, reels, and lure types and how they’re used. A demonstration of casting is planned so that those attending can try their hand with some coaching and encouragement. A local DNR Warden will also be on hand to discuss regulations and answer questions.
Other potential future topics include conservation and the sportsman, how to process fish and game, where to hunt or fish, archery equipment, firearms for hunting different game species, and knives and optics for sportsmen.
The initial Sportsmen’s Campfire will be Monday, June 4 at 6:30 PM at Stillwater Coffee Company, 1650 N. Country Club Parkway, Elkhorn, WI. There is no charge for the meeting, but the cost of beverage is left to the individual.
For questions, please contact DNR Conservation Warden Mike Katzenberg at Michael.katzenberg@wi.gov or Bob Burton at reb@elknet.net or 262-215-4752.
