Manchester Township Middle School’s Eco Explorers have been making the most of the fall season with outdoor learning experiences along the Jersey Shore. In September, students explored Island Beach State Park (IBSP), followed by a whale-watching adventure on the high seas in October. Today, they returned to IBSP for a surf fishing trip with the Berkeley Striper Club!
Students had a successful day on the water, catching hickory shad, sand eels, and even a sundial. Calm seas and light winds provided ideal conditions for learning and fishing. Students practiced casting fishing poles, learned about different types of lures and bait, and discovered what conditions are best for surf fishing. Along the way, they spotted loons, cormorants, and gulls, all while enjoying the fresh ocean air. Wet sneakers and socks couldn’t dampen their enthusiasm!
The volunteer fishermen praised the Eco Explorers not only for their fishing skills but also their attentiveness and eagerness to learn, quickly picking up a new and exciting sport. Special thanks to IBSP for welcoming the students back to their nature center and to both IBSP and the Berkeley Striper Club for supporting hands-on environmental education!