Inspiring the Next Generation of Anglers, Conservationists, and Outdoor Leaders
The Young Anglers Project is a Vermont nonprofit organization dedicated to introducing young people to the lifelong rewards of fly fishing, conservation, and time spent outdoors.
Our mission is simple: remove barriers to participation and create meaningful opportunities for youth to develop confidence, practical skills, and a lasting appreciation for our rivers, wildlife, and the natural world.
Through hands-on education, mentorship, and outdoor experiences, we help young anglers discover that fly fishing is more than catching fish—it’s about patience, stewardship, problem-solving, and building a connection with nature that lasts a lifetime.
Our Mission
To provide youth with access to fly fishing, outdoor education, and environmental stewardship by providing high-quality instruction and mentorship available regardless of financial circumstances or previous experience.
What We Do
Youth Fly Fishing Camps
Our multi-day camps immerse young anglers in the fundamentals of fly fishing while fostering teamwork, confidence, and respect for the environment. Campers learn:
- Casting and presentation
- Fish behavior and aquatic insects
- Knot tying and rigging
- Fly selection
- Safe fish handling and catch-and-release ethics
- River safety and outdoor skills
Educational Programs
We partner with schools, community organizations, and local conservation groups to deliver engaging educational experiences that combine science, ecology, and outdoor recreation. Programs are designed to help students understand:
- Healthy river ecosystems
- Native trout and fisheries
- Water quality
- Aquatic insects and stream biology
- Conservation and habitat protection
Mentorship
Every young angler benefits from positive role models.
Our volunteers, guides, and experienced anglers provide encouragement, instruction, and support while helping participants build skills both on and off the water.
Equipment Access
Quality fly fishing equipment can be expensive. We work to ensure that cost is never the reason a young person misses the opportunity to participate. Through donations, sponsorships, and community partnerships, we provide access to rods, reels, waders, boots, and other essential gear.
Why It Matters
The future of our rivers depends on the next generation of people who understand and care for them.
Today’s youth face fewer opportunities to connect with nature than ever before. Time spent on healthy rivers teaches resilience, patience, responsibility, and environmental awareness while encouraging an active outdoor lifestyle.
By introducing young people to fly fishing, we are also introducing them to:
- Conservation
- Wildlife appreciation
- Healthy outdoor recreation
- Leadership
- Respect for public lands and waterways
- Lifelong friendships and community
Our Impact
Every participant who learns to safely release a trout, identify aquatic insects, or protect clean water becomes an ambassador for conservation.
Our goal is not simply to teach fly fishing—we aim to cultivate future guides, biologists, conservation leaders, volunteers, and lifelong stewards of our natural resources.
Get Involved
The Young Anglers Project thrives because of generous supporters, volunteers, and community partners.
You can make a difference by:
- Donating to support youth programming
- Sponsoring a young angler
- Donating equipment
- Volunteering as a mentor
- Partnering with schools or community organizations
- Becoming a corporate sponsor
Whether you’re an experienced angler, a parent, educator, business owner, or someone who simply believes in the value of the outdoors, there’s a place for you in the Young Anglers Project.
Together, we’re building confident young people, healthier rivers, and a stronger outdoor community—one cast at a time.
Let’s ensure that every young person has the opportunity to experience the joy of standing in a river, making their first cast, and discovering a lifelong connection with the outdoors.
To know more about the Young Anglers Project, email Jayson from the FLY HAUS
Help Support Young Anglers!
Saturday, October 17, 2026
Doors Open @6:00PM
Location: Riley Center for the Arts
143 Seminary Ave, Manchester Center, VT 05255