Youth Programs

We offer multiple youth programs in the summer.

Youth Programs

Chaska Area Fishing with Friends regularly hosts various youth organizations among which include the Three Rivers Park District Extreme Kids Fishing Camp, the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Department Kids Fishing Program, the Chaska Police Department Summer Youth Camp, and the Boys and Girls Club of the Twin Cities.

In addition to hosting the youth organizations mentioned above, Chaska Area Fishing with Friends kicks off each season by conducting and annual Family Fishing Academy the first Sunday in June at the Event Center in Chaska (Curling Rink/Firemans Park) for the purpose of:

  • Strengthening family relationships and local communities by encouraging participation in fishing education with local youth and their parents.
  • Providing a meaningful and enjoyable fishing opportunity to local youth.
  • Exposing children, who may not otherwise get the opportunity, to the sport of fishing and the outdoors.
  • Providing education and understanding about fish and wildlife conservation as a natural resource.
  • Promoting fishing as an alternative leisure family activity.
  • Developing fishing skills that provide a lifetime hobby and outdoor activity.

Family Fishing Academy Individual Table Instructions Include:

Water Safety, Types of Fishing Equipment, Fish Species, Knot Tying, Rod Rigging and Fishing Skills.

Pictured Above: Jeff Bryne of Cabin Fever Sports in Victoria instructs youngsters in various baits for fishing. No one wanted to touch that “icky” leach but all came away knowing how to bait one on a hook for that wary Walleye!

Family Fishing Academy Certificates and Free Fishing Rod and Reel

Next step, outside to Fireman’s Lake to catch some fish with the help of the MN Dept of  Natural Resources Fishing in the Neighborhood program.

Pictured Above: Karen Campbell, former AOA Specialist at the Chaska Community Center hands out Certificates of Completion and free fishing rod and reel to two happy participants.

CAFWF Family Fishing Academy to Go

Due to Covid-19, CAFWF modified their in person Fishing Academy by offering a fishing kit to go. This included a new fishing rod and reel, and a tackle box with fishing lures and tackle.

Pictured Above: CAFWF member Loren Simer, Gary Wittrock, and Carl Lacey