Winnebago County 4-H Bass Fishing SPIN Club

This is not a basic, first exposure to fishing experiences program.  The intention of these lessons is to advance the interest, or spark, of fishing passions to a higher level focused on attracting Jr. High and High School youth to the sport of fishing with a specific focus on largemouth bass. 

There are six lessons designed to be visual and hands-on and will be taught at Torstenson Youth Conservation Education Center at 13735 Cook Rd, Pecatonica.  The lessons focus on aquatic ecosystems; fish biology; and include STEM activities relating to fishing gear. Youth enrolled in the 4-H Sportsfishing and/or Bass Fishing SPIN clubs will be eligible for special opportunities and fishing contests at the state level for prizes and recognition of their mastery!

Monday, June 17- Tuesday, June 18 classes will be held at Torstenson Youth Conservation Education Center at 13735 Cook Rd, Pecatonica from 11am-noon.  Thursday and Friday’s class will be 10am-noon at the River Building at the Torstenson property and participants should bring their fishing poles and gear on Thursday and Friday.  Class size is limited to 10 participants.  If your participant is 16 or older, they will have to have a valid 2024 Illinois Fishing License to fish.

Class locations are subject to change based on weather that week.

This activity is offered to youth ages 11-18 with previous fishing experience.  No need to be a member of 4-H to attend.

Cost for this activity is $5 for 4-H members and $10 for non-members.  Non 4-H members will be required to register in Z Suites under Bass Fishing SPIN Club.  Directions can be found at https://4h.extension.illinois.edu/participate/zsuite-enrollment-info