Our Midwest Fly Fishing Program offers a variety of fly-fishing activities that promote personal growth and health with a mindful focus. We provide instruction in fly tying, fly casting, fly fishing, and fly rod building and we organize fly fishing outings to rivers and lakes throughout the region. A weekly Zoom meeting allows participants to learn how to tie flies and learn about various fly-fishing techniques, entomology, fishing locations, etc. without having to leave the comfort of their home. Monthly in-person fly tying sessions occur at the American Legion Post 208 in Manchester. Fly casting and fly rod building classes are organized periodically based on participants’ interest. All of these activities require focused attention and concentration enabling participants to be free of bothersome thoughts and feelings and be 100% present in the moment. And, to bring it all together, outings are planned to various rivers and lakes to fly fish for trout, bass, bluegill, and other species. These outings enable participants to apply all of the things they practice in the other activities while enjoying the peaceful tranquility of being in nature and the comradery of being with peers.
To get involved or learn more about the SOCN Fly Fishing Program contact Co-Lead Karl Larson at Karl@specopscharity.com or Tony Menditto at Tony@specopscharity.com.
Gallery
News
Sowbug 2026
A group of about nine members attended the International Sowbug Roundup in Mountain Home Arkansas March 26-28, 2026. This is probably the largest fly tying event in the Midwest. We had a nonprofit table throughout the event and we were able to interact with many people, educating them about our program. Several of us tied flies and gave some away to people who visited our table. Additionally, we got several donations and we were able to recruit several expert guest fly tyers for our Tuesday evening zoom meetings. We all were able to visit with other tyers and we learned a lot! In addition to hanging out at the convention, we were able to get in some fishing on the world-class Norfork tailwater every day. Lots of fish were caught, and everyone caught at least one. Most important was that we all got to spend time together and we had some great group meals! As one member put it, “The best takeaway from Sowbug was simply getting away with some amazing humans to forget the hustle and bustle of life to enjoy each others company…and to catch a few fish.”
Further Reading
Here are some links to articles on how effective Flyfishing is in helping veterans suffering from PTSD/PTSD.
Craig, P.J., Alger, D.M., Bennett, J.L., Martin, T.P. (2020). The Transformative Nature of Fly-Fishing for Veterans and Military Personnel with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Therapeutic Recreation Journal. Vol. 54, No. 2, 150-172.
https://js.sagamorepub.com/index.php/trj/article/view/9965
Bennett, J.L., Piatt, J.A., Puymbroeck, M.V. (2017) Outcomes of a Therapeutic Fly-Fishing Program for Veterans with Combat-Related Disabilities: A Community-Based Rehabilitation Initiative. Community Metal Health Journal. Vol. 53, 756-765.