The fourth Annual AZTU-GCC Fish Camp for three one-week sessions starting June 4, 2023. The camp is limited to 12 campers per session, ages 13-18, and is open to both boys and girls. Although the camp is run in conjunction with GCC’s scout camp, the program is open to all. This limited size camp allows for a high staff to camper ratio, as well as flexibility in program and outings. The Fish Camp is based at R-C Scout Ranch, about 20-miles east of Payson on Christopher Creek, at an elevation ~6000ft. The Grand Canyon Council provides lodging and meals for campers and volunteer staff. In addition, GCC provides a dedicated camp director, additional adult leadership, and canoes for fishing excursions.
The camp is run with experienced anglers from Arizona Trout Unlimited who volunteer their time teaching and mentoring participants with various fishing activities and hands-on conservation exercises. The program is presented in a daily agenda that includes the following topics:
- Fishing basics, equipment, knots, and casting techniques
- Fly Tying
- Fish anatomy, dissection, and pathology
- Entomology, including using a seine to capture aquatic invertebrates
- Aquatic invasive, nuisance species
- Water and soil conservation, including ‘leave no trace’ philosophy
- Daily excursions to other mountain lakes and streams
- Canyon Creek Fish Hatchery Tour
- An introduction and understanding of AZGFD rules and regulations for fishing and taking of aquatic species
- How to properly catch, clean, and cook a fish.
