Forestville, WI: The second Fish, Fish, Fish! Summer Camp was held at Discovery World, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, during the week of August 20-24, 2018. Eighteen 2nd and 3rd school grade boy and girl campers learned how to become ichthyologists by getting up close and personal with incredible fish in Discovery World’s Reiman Aquarium. They also explored how the Aquarium runs, investigated aquatic invasive species, and set various types of traps in Lake Michigan. Campers created awesome fish artwork to take home.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Lakeshore State Park and Discovery World staff took the campers fishing. On Friday, Dr. Nick Schmal, FAF Executive Director participated in the August camp and again presented a fishing basics seminar in the Freshwater Sustainability Lab on: fish identification, water safety, fishing regulations, casting instruction using Backyard Bass, displayed types of fishing reels for various angling situations, and what lures and baits are in your tackle box. Schmal also handed out information about a national State Fish Art aquatic education curriculum and art contest hosted each year by Wildlife Forever.
Campers were treated with their own rod and reel combo and a Future Pro t-shirt to take home, compliments of the Future Angler Foundation and the National Professional Anglers Association. This is the 3rd year that FAF (with NPAA support) has participated in the summer camps.
Discovery World provides fun and educational experiences through interactive exhibits and educational programs for families and students in Milwaukee, the region, and the state of Wisconsin. The early school age elementary camps appeal to the curiosity and boundless energy of young innovators and scientists. With more exploration time and a slower pace than the camps for older youth, campers have more opportunities to investigate and brainstorm. They generate excitement for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education and careers in the minds of children, even before they head to high school and beyond.