Outdoors

Youth Day inspires the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts

CHANNING -- Laughter echoed through the woods, fishing lines stretched across the trout pond, and smiles could be found around every corner as the Sagola Township Sportsmen’s Club hosted Sportsmen of Tomorrow Youth Day.

More than 100 children and their families attended the inaugural event on Aug. 1, enjoying a day dedicated to outdoor recreation, conservation, and hands-on learning.

Designed to introduce young people to Michigan’s outdoor traditions, the free community event featured a wide variety of activities that encouraged learning through experience. Youth safely participated in archery, air rifles, BB guns, shotguns, and .22 rifle shooting under the guidance of experienced volunteers who emphasized safety, responsibility, and sportsmanship.

The day’s attractions extended well beyond the shooting ranges. Children climbed aboard Bobcat equipment provided by Bobcat of Greenland, searched for hidden prizes during a popular money hunt, roasted marshmallows for s’mores, and posed for photos inside a duck blind.

Fishing proved to be one of the day’s biggest highlights. The trout pond, sponsored by the Quenten Ackerman Annual Fishing Tournament, was stocked with fish brought by the Watersmeet Trout Hatchery. After catching their fish, youth learned how to properly clean them with hands-on instruction from volunteers with Trout Unlimited, giving many participants the opportunity to take home both their catch and a valuable new skill.

Educational exhibits were featured throughout the grounds. Visitors observed a live honeybee hive, learned how maple syrup is made from tree to table, and enjoyed raft rides provided by True North Outfitters.

Conservation education remained at the heart of the event. Representatives from Hardcore Scripture Outdoors and the U.P. Trappers shared information about trapping, wildlife management, and responsible stewardship of natural resources. Children also watched a bear shoulder mount being taxidermied, offering a unique look at the craftsmanship behind wildlife preservation, while Glacier’s Reptiles introduced families to live reptiles and the important role they play in Michigan’s ecosystems.

More than a day of outdoor fun, Sportsmen of Tomorrow Youth Day was created to inspire the next generation of hunters, anglers, trappers, and conservationists. Every activity encouraged youth to build confidence, develop new skills, and gain a deeper appreciation for the outdoors.

The Sagola Township Sportsmen’s Club was thrilled to welcome more than 100 young participants to its inaugural event, a turnout that exceeded expectations and reflected the community’s commitment to passing outdoor traditions on to future generations.

The club extends its appreciation to every volunteer, sponsor, organization, exhibitor, and community partner who donated their time, equipment, and expertise. Their generosity transformed an idea into an unforgettable community event.

With such an enthusiastic response in its first year, the Sagola Township Sportsmen’s Club hopes Sportsmen of Tomorrow Youth Day will become a lasting tradition, inspiring young people to enjoy the outdoors, practice conservation, and carry Michigan’s sporting heritage forward for generations to come.

Community members, businesses, and organizations interested in volunteering, becoming a sponsor, hosting an educational exhibit, or otherwise participating in next year’s Sportsmen of Tomorrow Youth Day are encouraged to get involved. Those interested in helping make the event an even greater success can contact event coordinator Danielle Griffus at 906-282-5845 for more information on volunteer and sponsorship opportunities.

Sponsors are Bacco, Hardcore Outfitters, Quenten Ackerman Annual Fishing Tournament, Bigari Ace of Iron River, Republic Sportsmen’s Club, Binks Coca-Cola, RC Fabricatators, Frydayz, Fox of Neguanee, LP of Sagola and many more monetary donors.