Angie Barnard Executive Director at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Official website
Angie Barnard Executive Director at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Official website
Youth from across Illinois participated in the 4-H Hooks Us Together Virtual Fishing Bass Challenge this May. The event encouraged young anglers to submit photos and measurements of their catches, with no limit on entries.
Hunter Czyzewski from Clay County secured first place with a 22-inch catch. Mason Hicks from Jefferson County and Jakeb Paul from Wayne County tied for second place with 21-inch catches each. Third place saw a five-way tie among Andrew Fleener, Kayin Hampton, Gage Jurgensen, Brittyn Lusk, and Colton Snow, all catching fish measuring 20 inches.
"I love fishing and going to different ponds with my friends trying to catch big fish," said Hunter Czyzewski. "I've been fishing with my dad and grandpas since I was little. It's my favorite thing to do."
The virtual format of the competition aims to get youth outdoors while learning about the environment through engaging activities.
Mason Hicks expressed his enthusiasm: “I absolutely love discovering new places to fish and being challenged catch the tanks that might be there.”
The tournament runs from April to June, focusing on different species each month. In June, participants will target channel catfish. More information is available on the competition's website.
Illinois 4-H is part of the University of Illinois Extension's College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences program. It aims to empower youth by providing guidance and tools for personal development.
For further details, contact Curt Sinclair at sinclair@illinois.edu or Carissa Nelson at carissa@illinois.edu.
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