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Archery Shooting Skills
This workshop will focus on improving form and shooting technique and you will have the advantage of adding a sight to your bow to improve accuracy and precision. We’ll shoot at various distances and learn how to compensate for added yardage. You do not need archery experience prior to this, but we’ll move quickly beyond the basics.
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Axemanship:
One of the most iconic traditions in Maine is putting up firewood for the winter. But first, you’ll need to know a bit about swinging an axe and using it efficiently. The growing popularity of woods skills has sparked the interest in this workshop where you’ll learn how to choose, maintain, and use safely and effectively axes, saws, and knives. There will be plenty of hands on action so prepare for a fun woods workout! | |
Campfire Cooking
Have you ever tried getting that smoky fire-cooked taste, only to wind up with a charred mess? In this class we will teach you the art of fire cooking. We will introduce cooking directly in the coals with foil, dutch ovens and cast iron skillets. This primitive backcountry skill isn’t quite as hard as it may seem; with the right direction from our experienced teachers you will be baking up some tasty cobbler or stew in no time! | |
Campfire Snacks & Sweets
Nothing says camp quite like delicious food around the fire! Spend the evening learning how to make some of our favorite campfire treats, including popcorn popped over an open flame, banana boats, and other tasty outdoor snacks. Whether you're looking for new camping recipes or simply want to enjoy a relaxing evening by the fire, this hands-on session is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and spark your campfire creativity.
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Fire and Survival Skills
Proper fire building is a skill that many folks will call on at some point. This workshop will combine a fire and survival lesson to provide you with the basic essential skills to survive an emergency situation. Whether you are building fires for some summer nights or to keep warm lost in the mountains, you will learn the skills to start a fire anywhere, anytime. We’ll also focus a great deal on prevention and preparedness, moving right into specific key skills that will give you the best odds at survival in the backcountry.
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Fly Fishing
Mastering the fly rod takes a little practice, but here, you’ll learn basic casting methods, and you’ll even have time to wet a fly. You’ll soon realize it’s easier than you think! This workshop will cover basic gear, equipment and focus on successful casting technique and fly presentation. Equipment will be provided, though participants are welcome to bring their own. A minimum of a one day fishing license is required if you wish to cast on open water with a real fly, without a license you will use yarn to represent the fly with no hook.
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High Flying Fun – Aqua Zip
Take the leap and experience one of Bryant Pond's most exciting waterfront adventures! Climb the tower, soar down the zip line, and make a splash as you land in the lake. Whether you're conquering a personal challenge or simply looking for an unforgettable evening, the Aqua Zip is sure to leave you smiling. No experience is necessary
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Hike Buck’s Ledge & Lapham Ledge:
What’s more relaxing than a nice, moderate hike in the fall. During this session, we will venture off campus to a local hiking hotspot where we will lead you to two beautiful views of western Maine. The first hike will be up to Buck’s Ledge, where a view of North Pond and its surrounding hills. Following, we will hike to Lapham Ledge for another amazing view and will continue with the loop to return to the trailhead. Along the way, we will talk about being prepared for day hikes, Trail etiquette, and some forest ecology. This is a great opportunity for a laid back adventure to make some friends, take some pictures and do a little learning along the way.
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Introduction to Fly Tying
Discover the art of creating your own fishing flies! In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn the basics of fly tying while crafting a simple fly to take home. Whether you're an experienced angler or have never picked up a fly rod, this relaxed session offers a fun introduction to a timeless outdoor tradition. All materials and instructions are provided.
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Introduction to Furbearers and Fur Handling Skills
Regulated trapping is an important conservation tool, and becoming proficient in basic fur handling is an important part of the process. In this workshop, we'll highlight Maine's 16 species of furbearers and provide instruction, equipment, and a hands-on learning experience.
Each participant will have a specimen to work with, likely a mink or muskrat. Recreational Safety Coordinator Joshua Dostie will share his skills and passion for trapping while guiding participants through the skinning, fleshing, stretching, and boarding process. All equipment, aprons, and a legally obtained mink or muskrat will be provided.
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Introduction to Waterfowl Hunting
Maine has plenty of opportunities to hunt waterfowl, including ducks and geese. During this session, we will cover the basics to waterfowl hunting including laws and regulations, equipment, identifying areas to hunt, use of decoys, and calling techniques. We will also venture to the shotgun range to demonstrate shotgun patterning and shooting techniques. We will finish the session by demonstrating waterfowl processing and preservation.
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Learn to Hunt: Whitetail Deer Hunting
Deer hunting is an exciting way to spend time in the woods while matching your skills with one of Maine’s most sought-after big game species. Deer hunting is also a great introduction to the traditions held sacred in Maine and a way to learn about this important species in our ecosystem, while supporting Maine’s conservation goals. This workshop is a blend of hands-on demonstration and practice, led by Registered Maine Guide and experienced hunter, Carmen Bombeke. Participants will learn deer habitats, what they feed on, ways a whitetail deer may be harvested in Maine, hunting tactics and equipment, personal safety, shot placement and basic game care.
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Learn to Shoot: Introduction to Shotguns
Whether it’s hunting or target shooting that you’re interested in, this workshop we’ll begin with safe gun handling and basic shotgunning and then we’ll take it to the sporting clays range for some high flying clay target shooting! Learn proper stance, follow through, and point and shoot techniques from certified instructors. Whether you are a novice or have some experience, this workshop will not disappoint!
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Map and Compass
While GPS devices are popular, mastering basic map and compass skills remains essential for backcountry navigation. In this course, you’ll learn how to:
Read and interpret topographic maps.
Properly use a compass to orient a map, set a bearing, and plot a course.
Apply advanced techniques like triangulation and declination compensation.
Plan effective and safe routes through wilderness terrain.
Discover how enjoyable and empowering it is to navigate using these timeless skills, and gain confidence in finding your way, no matter where the trail leads!
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Reach New Heights – Climbing Wall
Challenge yourself on Bryant Pond's climbing wall! Whether you're a first-time climber or have climbed before, this session offers a fun and supportive opportunity to test your skills, build confidence, and cheer one another on. Choose your own route, climb at your own pace, and enjoy the satisfaction of reaching new heights.
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Sunset Canoe & Kayak Paddle
End the day with a peaceful paddle as the sun begins to set over Bryant Pond. Whether you choose a canoe or kayak, you'll enjoy a relaxing evening on the water while taking in the beauty of the surrounding mountains, listening for loons, and experiencing camp from a whole new perspective. No previous paddling experience is necessary.
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