Clinics

Shank’s Mare offers in-store clinics designed to familiarize you with the outdoor activities we offer Once you learn the basics of kayaking, hiking, x-c skiing, etc., we can then direct you in to one of our many lesson programs to further your knowledge. Our goal is to provide you with the skills to make all your outdoor adventures safe and enjoyable.

Introduction to Geocaching

Sat., Feb. 13, 2010, 10:30am-12:30pm

Learn about the sport of “geocaching” at Shank’s Mare. This high tech scavenger hunt activity incorporates information from the web, with map and compass skills and a hand-held Global Positioning System (GPS) computer. “Team Shank’s Mare” has been enjoying this sport and we want to share the fun with you. This clinic will familiarize you with the principles of geocaching. We’ll head outdoors to practice finding some “caches”. This is a great family activity or an addition to kayaking, hiking, etc. Shank’s Mare will incorporate caches on many of our upcoming programs, so learn about geocaching with us, and join the fun. Materials for this clinic will be provided by Shank’s Mare.

Fee - Free

Winter Waterfowl on the Susquehanna

Sun., Feb. 21, 2010, 1:00-3:00pm

With the help of representatives from York County Parks, join us for an afternoon hike in search of the waterfowl that winter on the Susquehanna. We’ll get a preview of birding guides, binoculars, and spotting scopes, and talk about the winter waterfowl that inhabit our area, as well as show us descriptive information on how to spot these birds. Then we’ll head outside for a leisurely walk along the River to spot the migratory birds that frequent our area this time of year. Who knows what we’ll see. Bring binoculars and field guides. Hike refreshments and lunch available at Lock 2 Café. Free Program.

Shank’s Mare Spring Clinic Weekend

Sat., March 27, 2010

Join us for a day filled with informative sessions designed to get you ready for “go play outside” fun. All clinics are held at Shank’s Mare, and are free. The Lock 2 Café will be open for food and refreshments.

10:30-11:30am – Toting and Securing Your Toys

Learn about lots of choices in car rack systems and how to choose the system for the most versatility no matter what you are carrying. We’ll cover load assist systems as well, and how to properly tie down and secure your gear for the protection of your car, toys, and others on the road.

12:30-1:30pm – Introduction to Kayak Fishing

Local fishing guide Brian Shumaker will conduct this clinic on the basics of kayak fishing. Learn about what gear you will need, tips on outfitting your kayak and yourself to catch the big one!

2:30-3:30pm – Kayak Safety and Design

This clinic is all about the skills and techniques you should possess to be safe on the water. We’ll cover kayak design, outfitting, paddling conditions, safety gear, and paddling attire

Join us for one or all of these informative clinics. Shank’s Mare wants you to be prepared, be safe and have fun on the water this season!

First Steps to Kayak Fishing – Fly Casting Clinic

Sat., April 24, 2010, 10:00am-2:00pm

Shank’s Mare welcomes our expert Susquehanna River Fishing Guide, Brian Shumaker, to conduct this introductory fly casting clinic. Brian’s business, Susquehanna River Guides, specializes in fly fishing for small mouth bass on the Susquehanna. This clinic at Shank’s Mare is designed for the person just starting out in the sport of fly fishing. It will cover the fundamental skills in fly casting and fly line control. The clinic will be held outside Shank’s Mare, on the banks of the Susquehanna. All equipment is provided in the clinic fee. The class will be small, so sign up now!

Fee including all equipment and instruction – Members $75/Person, Non-Members $83/Person.