5-Day Teen Fly Fishing Camp in Southern Vermont
Our Teen Fly Fishing Camp introduces young anglers to the art and science of fly fishing through hands-on instruction and daily fishing adventures across some of Southern Vermont’s most scenic waters.
Camp sessions run for 5 days, Monday through Friday, from 11am to 5pm.
Cost is $550 per camper.
“Through simple experiences like casting a fly rod, turning over a rock in the stream, or just spending time outside, on the water, they start to build confidence and curiosity about the natural world. I feel fortunate to play a small role in that process, helping them develop an appreciation for our natural resources and the responsibility to care for them so they remain healthy and wild for future generations to enjoy as much as we do.”
– Jayson T. Cote FLY HAUS Owner, Guide, Instructor
Designed for ages 12–15
Our program combines skill development, outdoor exploration, and environmental stewardship in a supportive and engaging environment.
Throughout the week, campers learn how to target different fish species, understand aquatic insects and fish habitat, and develop respect for conservation and responsible angling.
Brookies, Browns, Bows & Bass
Each day begins with a focused skill class covering essential topics such as fly casting, knot tying, reading water, fly selection, and fish handling.
In the afternoon, campers apply these skills while fishing at a variety of locations including local area trout and bass ponds and lakes, brook trout streams, the historic Batten Kill, the Mettawee River, Otter Creek and the Waloomsac River.
Conservation & Community Service
We always hope to schedule a volunteer opportunity to support our local community, which may include participating in a river cleanup, stocking trout in our local fisheries or helping out on a conservation project.
Visits to the American Museum of Fly Fishing, the Orvis School and National Forest Ranger Station may be on the itinerary as well.
Camp Leaders & Instructors
Fishing Camps are directed by our shop owner Jayson along with the FLY HAUS staff of dedicated fly fishing guides and instructors.
“Spending time teaching young people in the outdoors has always meant a lot to me. There is something special about watching kids slow down, notice the world around them, and begin to understand themselves, the rivers, the forests, and wildlife that make this place so valuable. ”
– Jayson
View Our Sample Itinerary
Specific locations and activities may vary depending on various factors, such as weather or venue availability.
Day 1 – Foundations of Fly Fishing
Location: Local Trout Pond
Morning Skill Class
- Introduction to fly fishing equipment
- Rod, reel, line, and leader setup
- Essential knots (improved clinch, surgeon’s knot, loop knot)
- Casting fundamentals: stance, grip, and basic overhead cast
- Safe fish handling and catch-and-release ethics
Afternoon Activity
- Guided pond fishing session targeting stocked trout
- Practice casting accuracy and line control
- Learning to fight and land fish
- Fly selection basics (nymphs, wet flies, small streamers)
Evening Wrap-Up
Review of casting challenges and successes
Group discussion on what was learned
Day 2 – Native Brook Trout Exploration
Location: Mountain Brook Trout Creek
Morning Skill Class
- Reading small stream water
- Stealth and stream approach techniques
- Dry fly fishing fundamentals
- Understanding native brook trout habitat
Afternoon Activity
- Hiking and fishing a small mountain creek
- Dry fly fishing for native brook trout
- Practicing precise casts in tight brush conditions
- Introduction to aquatic insects found in small streams
Evening Wrap-Up
- Brook trout conservation discussion
- Identifying insects collected from the stream
Day 3 – River Fly Fishing
Location: Otter Creek, Walloomsac, Batten Kill River
Morning Skill Class
- Introduction to river fishing strategies
- Nymphing techniques and strike detection
- Line mending and drift control
- Reading riffles, runs, and pools
Afternoon Activity
- Guided wade fishing on the river
- Practicing dead drift nymphing
- Identifying productive trout holding water
- Learning safe wading practices
Evening Wrap-Up
Group discussion about river conditions and successful techniques
Day 4 – Warmwater Fishing Adventure
Location: Shaftsbury Lake, Gale Meadows Pond
Morning Skill Class
- Introduction to still water fishing
- Fishing with poppers, streamers, and surface flies
- Casting for distance and accuracy
Afternoon Activity
- Fishing from shore and small watercraft
- Targeting bluegill and smallmouth bass
- Practicing surface fly presentations
- Observing fish behavior in stillwater environments
Evening Wrap-Up
Discussion on differences between trout and bass fisheries
Day 5 – Fly Fishing Heritage & Skills Challenge
Location: American Museum of Fly Fishing & Local Bass Ponds
Morning Activity
Visit to the American Museum of Fly Fishing
Activities include:
- Guided museum tour
- History of fly fishing and the Battenkill River
- Exploration of classic rods, reels, and flies
- Discussion on conservation and the future of fisheries
Afternoon Skill Challenge
- Camp fishing competition at local bass ponds
- Accuracy casting challenge
- Fly selection exercise
- Final fishing session applying the week’s skills
Closing Session
Certificates of completion
Camp recap and highlights
Awards for casting, teamwork, and conservation awareness
Sign Up for Fishing Camp
This immersive experience helps young anglers build confidence, connect with nature, and gain a lifelong appreciation for fly fishing and Vermont’s wild waters.
Fishing Camp Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the camp for?
Our camp is designed for teens ages 12–15 who are interested in learning fly fishing or improving their skills. Both beginners and young anglers with some experience are welcome.
Do campers need prior fly fishing experience?
No experience is necessary. Our instructors cover the fundamentals including casting, knots, fly selection, and fish handling. More experienced anglers will also have opportunities to refine their skills.
What should our campers bring?
Campers should bring:
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Decent hiking shoes
- Shoes that can get wet in the river. (No open toed sandals)
- Hat and polarized sunglasses
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Rain jacket
- Water bottle
- Lunch and snacks
Is fishing equipment provided?
Yes. Fly rods, reels, flies, and other necessary gear can be provided. Campers are also welcome to bring their own equipment if they prefer.
Where will campers fish?
Throughout the week campers will fish a variety of local waters including trout ponds, small mountain streams, larger rivers, and warmwater lakes in Southern Vermont.
How much does camp cost?
Camps costs $550 per camper, which includes 5 days of activity, all equipment and transportation.
Are lunches provided?
Campers should bring their own lunch and snacks each day along with a water bottle.
What happens in case of bad weather?
Camp continues in light rain with proper rain gear. In the event of severe weather, indoor activities such as fly tying, knot tying, casting practice, or educational sessions may replace fishing time.
How many campers are in each group?
Group sizes are kept small to ensure personalized instruction and a safe learning environment.
Is transportation provided?
Campers will meet at a designated location each day. Transportation to fishing locations may be provided depending on the day’s itinerary.
What skills will campers learn?
Campers will learn:
- Fly casting fundamentals
- Knot tying and rigging
- Reading trout water
- Fly selection
- Catch-and-release techniques
- Aquatic insects and fish habitat
Is catch-and-release practiced?
Yes. Camp emphasizes responsible angling practices including proper fish handling and conservation.