With fishing poles at the ready, this group was ready to enjoy everything that Hidden Acres has to offer at the annual Sportsmen’s Retreat. Andy Janzen, center in back, brought his sons and one of their friends to enjoy the weekend. From left are Kepler Nelson, Karsten Janzen and Alexander Janzen. Daily Freeman-Journal photo by Lori Berglund.

DAYTON — More than 600 fathers and sons, brothers and grandfathers — and lots of old friends — gathered at the annual Sportsmen’s Retreat at Hidden Acres near Dayton over the past weekend.

This men-only retreat is popular; it draws men and boys from across the nation, according to Ryan Graden, ministries director at Hidden Acres. Now in its 34th year, the Sportsmen’s Retreat draws men from several states throughout the Midwest and nation.

Hidden Acres describes itself as “A place set apart for you,” and that’s just what it was for the men and boys participating this year.

In the lush surroundings of this unique camp, men were invited to spend time together fishing, shooting, relaxing and talking about God in their lives.

“Our goal is for ministerial purposes,” Graden said.

Being outside — in the work of creation with ample woods and recreation — just seems conducive to the conversation.

The weekend featured pastoral speakers, small groups, a buy, sell and trade event, and lots of time to bond outside, despite the sometimes inclement weather.

Saturday saw many groups fishing in the open water.

Why men only?

The answer might be found in a verse from Proverbs included with the brochure for the event: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”

Ben Fisher came from Ashland, Nebraska, with this 13-year-old son, Tage. It was Tage’s first time at the camp, but it was clearly already a new favorite. He was most excited simply to be spending time alone with his dad.

“We get to spend the whole weekend together,” Tage said, a smile brimming from ear to ear.

The father and son duo were hoping to catch a few trout in the pond, perhaps shoot a little archery, and simply relax.

“There’s lots of good food here,” Dad and son agreed.

Andy Janzen came from Cedar Rapids with two sons and a friend. Born and raised in Germany, Janzen came to the United States for college in Indiana and now makes his life in Iowa, where he owns a CrossFit gym. He was back as a repeat visitor at the Sportsmen’s Retreat.

“I like to come and spend time with the boys,” Janzen said. “We enjoy the sessions and talking about Christ with my boys. It also works out nice being outdoors.”

Alexander, 8, was excited to be visiting the camp for the first time. His older brother Karsten, 11, was happy to show him the ropes of archery and other sporting attractions available at Hidden Acres. Family friend Kepler Nelson, also 11, said he looked forward to learning more about all of the different outdoor sports.

While the Sportsmen’s Retreat may be men only, there are ample opportunities for the entire family all year long.

“We host about 25,000 guests every year,” Graden said.

A few of the upcoming camps will be for moms and kids, dads and kids, seniors 50 and over, and many more. To learn more about the different camps and other activities visit hacamps.org