At PA BASS, bass serve as a springboard to learn about biology, stream ecology, habitat, watersheds, and warm water fisheries conservation. After field school, armed with knowledge, leadership skills, and the support of Academy staff, students return to their communities to serve as Conservation Ambassadors.
Below are a few highlights of the PA Bass field school curriculum.
BASS FISHING
Students learn the art of fishing for bass at Bald Eagle State Park.
FISH DISSECTIONS
Students explore fish anatomy and diseases through dissections led by fisheries biologists.
MACRO COLLECTIONS
Students collect, identify, and learn about macroinvertebrates role as indicators of stream quality.
HABITAT BUILDING
Students work with PA Fish and Boat Commission and PA DCNR staff to build fish habitat for local lakes.
FISHERIES MANAGEMENT
All week long, students engage with professionals in the conservation field including individuals from the PA Fish and Boat Commission!
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Students also prepare to become Conservation Ambassadors in their home communities through leadership skill development by engaging in mock town hall meetings, group presentations, and team building exercises.
Explore some more!
Browse through the highlight videos below to explore the ins and outs of field school!
PA BASS
THE DETAILS
FIELD SCHOOL DATES
June 23-27, 2026
FIELD SCHOOL LOCATION
Madisonburg, PA
Tuition
$600
*Scholarship support available
At PA BASS, bass serve as a springboard to learn about biology, stream ecology, habitat, watersheds, and warm water fisheries conservation. After field school, armed with knowledge, leadership skills, and the support of Academy staff, students return to their communities to serve as Conservation Ambassadors.
Below are a few highlights of the PA Bass field school curriculum.
BASS FISHING
Students learn the art of fishing for bass at Bald Eagle State Park.
FISH DISSECTIONS
Students explore fish anatomy and diseases through dissections led by fisheries biologists.
MACRO COLLECTIONS
Students collect, identify, and learn about macroinvertebrates role as indicators of stream quality.
HABITAT BUILDING
Students work with PA Fish and Boat Commission and PA DCNR staff to build fish habitat for local lakes.
FISHERIES MANAGEMENT
All week long, students engage with professionals in the conservation field including individuals from the PA Fish and Boat Commission!
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Students also prepare to become Conservation Ambassadors in their home communities through leadership skill development by engaging in mock town hall meetings, group presentations, and team building exercises.
Explore some more!
Browse through the highlight videos below to explore the ins and outs of field school!
Are you ready to take the next step?
Apply today to become a Conservation Ambassador !