Last year was a historic moment for high school bass fishing. Illinois was the first state to declare bass fishing a sport ;D ;D ;D

I am lucky enough to live in Illinois. I currently go to Northside College Prep in Chicago. I would like to get a bass fishing team started. We have the Chicago River literally running through my high school's backyard. Can anyone help me get started?

I am going to contact one of the aquatic scientists at my school. I would appreciate any one's input and help on creating a bass team. I am also looking for a bass club sponsor to allow my school to use a boat or two. We can deal with equipment ourselves, but the money for boats will be a little insane.

Plus, i would love the idea of coming to school with my rod and reel and fishing after classes or during my lunch period, that would be awesome.

Thanks to anyone who can help!!!

(I'm posting here and the Illinois section to get people's attention)

PM me if you have any ideas or help. (Only if you live in Chicago and/or you are a bass club member who could be willing to help.)

I would go to the flw college fishing website and ask some of those guys about how to start a club at a school.  I'm sure that they can help you out.  

Or you could contact some of the other schools that already fish high school in Illinois.  I know Peoria has a team, as well as almost EVERY school here in Southern Illinois.

Eric

I was one of the coaches that made it to state last year.  Your school has to register with the state and pay the entry fee.  It is just like the chess team.  Talk to your athletic/activities director.  As far as boats, we work with a local professional club.  They voluteer their boats and time.  Each boat needs an adult captain on board to drive the boat.  Pickneyville HS. bought a boat with donations, sponsors.  That is my goal for my team.  This is the issue that has kept a lot of schools out of the competition.  Some schools are already holding tournaments this Fall.  We are competing Oct 3 at Vernon Hills.  (fox chain)