Beginner Classes
Our beginner day camp is the perfect way to get kids hooked on fishing—no experience needed! We kick things off with Fishing 101, where kids learn how to set up a spinning rod and reel, then dive into “Rig it to Win It,” a fun team relay to tie knots and bait hooks using rubber worms. Next up is the Casting Contest, where kids practice their aim by casting into hula hoops—plus a bonus Trick Shot Challenge. It’s all hands-on, fast-paced, and packed with laughs.
Advanced Classes
For kids ready to take their fishing skills to the next level, our Advanced Fishing Camp dives deeper into technique, creativity, and tackle mastery. One of the highlights is our Lure Lab, where campers use real spinner-making kits to craft their own custom lures. With spinner blades, colorful skirts, beads, hooks, and more, they’ll design baits tailored for bass and other local species—then test them out on the water! It’s a hands-on way to learn how lures work, boost confidence, and add a personal touch to every cast. Perfect for young anglers who want to go beyond the basics and fish like pros.
Fishing Contests
Get ready for some friendly competition in our Shore Fishing Derby! Kids will team up for a timed tournament from the dock, testing their skills with a variety of lures. It’s fast-paced, full of laughs, and packed with surprises. We hand out fun prizes like “Fastest Catch” or “Strangest Snack Used as Bait.” Whether you're reeling in a sunfish or just cheering on your crew, this event is always a camp favorite!
ABOUT
Hi, I’m Andrew Bendt. I’ve been fishing the waters of Lake Minnetonka since I was 2 with my grandpa, and I caught my biggest muskie at 48" when I was 10 – I’ve been hooked ever since!
After pursuing my passion for the outdoors at Bemidji State University, I’m now focused on sharing my love for fishing with kids. Whether your child is just starting or already has some experience, I make learning fun through games, contests, and a lot of patience.
I was inspired by a middle school teacher who shared Lake Minnetonka with me, and now I want to pass that same kind of unforgettable experience onto your kids.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me directly at (952) 380-7117 or contact me here.
Safety
At our fishing day camps, we understand that safety is a top priority when it comes to your kids. We want to make sure that when you drop off your child, you have peace of mind knowing they’re in good hands.
We keep our group sizes small with a maximum of 12 kids per class, ensuring plenty of personal attention and supervision. If we have more than 8 kids, we’ll have an additional staff member on hand, so each child gets the care and attention they deserve. For comparison, a typical middle school field trip has just 1 adult supervisor for every 10-15 students, so you can rest assured your child will be well-looked after.
Our fishing contests are always held from the safety of the shoreline and docks—there will be no fishing from boats. If you’d prefer that your child wear a life jacket, I have some available, or they’re welcome to bring their own.
In the unlikely event of an emergency, I’m trained in First Aid and CPR. Plus, all of our classes take place in Excelsior, with quick access to local police and fire departments.
To make sure we stay connected, every parent will have my personal cell phone number, so you can reach me anytime if you have any questions or concerns throughout the day. Your child's safety and enjoyment are my top priority!
