HANCOCK, NY — The deadline for applying for the summer camp program sponsored by Friends of the Upper Delaware River (FUDR) and the Bill Canfield Fly Fishing School is June 1. The camp teaches kids (ages 12 to 17) about the sport of fly fishing and the importance of river conservation, taught by some of the nationally best-known guides and anglers on the Delaware River system.

First-time camp participants will learn how to gear up before getting on the water with a new complementary Orvis fly rod and reel outfit. Fly casting, fly tying, techniques and presentation, basic entomology and river ecology are all part of the curriculum. With a little luck, the campers will also learn how to handle and release fish safely after they are caught in one of the local ponds or on the river.

There will also be an advanced session for return campers to build on the skills they have already learned. Field trips to renowned Catskill fly fishing camps plus a full-day fishing trip to private waters on the famed Beaverkill River are also planned.

Camp will offer two separate one-week sessions: June 24 to July 1 and August 5 to 12.

The kids will be staying at the French Woods Sports and Arts Center summer camp and will have access to all of the amenities of the facility (see www.fws portsarts.com).

Scholarships are available; those interested in signing up are requested to fill out a questionnaire. Contact info@fudr.org.