The House of the Forest: Fishing Academy

Captain Dave Willard has always had a passion for mentoring the next generation of men. The majority of young men in our culture spend huge amounts of time in front of the TV and computer. According to a study done by Newsweek magazine, 70% of young men are not grown up by 30 years of age. (For more info visit http://www.generationswithvision.com/Articles/28 )

To help combat this devastating trend, Captain Dave is now offering a 2-day fishing school for young men, ages 12-16. The goal of this class is not to give young men just another hobby, but to prepare them to be active men, capable of providing for their family, enjoying God’s creation, and passing on valuable knowledge to the next generation. Captain Dave has been fishing with his father and grandfather since he was a boy and has been a USCG licensed guide for over 30 years. To find out more about him, visit his website http://www.crockettrocketstriperfishing.com/.

What will this class cover?

· Equipment and Gear

· Casting Techniques

· Selection of baits and lures

· Proper presentation

· Fish anatomy

· Species identification

· Fish habitat and patterns

· Water safety

· How to prepare the catch for the table

Where will the class be held?

The first day’s class will take place at Captain Dave’s home, where the young men will fish at his pond, catching bream, bass and catfish. The second day the young men will go out on Clarks Hill Lake aboard Captain Dave’s boat to catch stripers and largemouth. Then they will return to the Willard house to prepare, cook and enjoy a fish fry.

What is the cost?

The cost per young man is $150. This includes a snack on both days, the fresh fish lunch on the second day and all fishing supplies and tackle. Sixteen year olds will need to obtain a GA or SC fishing license before coming to the class.

When?

We will have three opportunities available during the summer of 2011. Classes will be held on June 14 &15, June 28 & 29, and July 12 & 13. The first day’s class is from 8:00 am -12:00 pm and the second day is from 6:00 am -1:00 pm.

How do I register?

To sign up your son(s) or grandson(s), please email Captain Dave at captaindave@wildblue.net or call (803) 637-6379.

There will be a limit of 6 young men per class. Exceptions to the age limits will be considered on an individual basis.