Black Hills State University offered their first ice fishing classes this semester, a classic winter tradition in the Black Hills. Greg Strobel, director of the Outdoor Education Program at BHSU, partnered with the Game, Fish, and Parks Outdoor Campus to bring students the opportunity to learn first-hand about the practice of ice fishing.
The initial part of the course involved building a foundation of knowledge inside the classroom. Students learned about fishing regulations, licensing requirements, equipment, and essential ice safety in the classroom. After gaining the essential knowledge of ice fishing, students took their classroom learning out onto the ice to catch fish.
“The ice fishing class was awesome! Even though the weather did not cooperate as planned, we still were able to have a very informative classroom time and fun practical time on the ice” said Brian Wallace, a student enrolled in the class.
Two naturalists from Game, Fish, and Parks were able to join the class on their outing and share their expertise, helping to safely guide students through learning this new outdoor skill. This additionally allowed students to gain insight on the potential careers that exist aside the outdoor education major as they worked alongside the professionals.
"I had never even been fishing before this class! But with the help of the instructors, I caught a fish in the first ten minutes of being on the ice. It was awesome” said Rae Hanzlik, another student in the class.
With the ample opportunities of winter recreation existing in the Black Hills, the ice fishing course offered at BHSU introduces students to a unique way to enjoy the season of winter while building essential outdoor skills.
“This course would be beneficial for anyone wanting to learn how to ice fish or even those who would like to teach a class on how to do it. I am very thankful that I was able to be part of this,” said Wallace.
For more information, please contact Cheryl Anagnopoulos at Cheryl.Anagnopoulos@BHSU.edu