Join The Mayfly Project and the Land Conservancy of West Michigan for an all-ages event where we learn about the elements of fly fishing! We’ll cover the basics – fly tying, aquatic entomology, watershed ecology, and more. Whether you’re new to the sport, an expert angler, or just curious about the outdoors, this event is an opportunity to celebrate and learn about gentle recreation in a community of interested and passionate people.

Between 10:00am-12:00pm we will rotate through 3 kid (and adult!) friendly activity stations, which will provide a small taste of the sessions Mayfly Project mentors plan with their mentees throughout the year:

• Education Station: Mayfly Project mentors will present a riverside talk about all things Michigan rivers and streams. Topics covered will include: seasons of Michigan fisheries, entomology of aquatic insects, and 101 techniques for fishing streams and creeks. At this station, we’ll get some up-close experience with the Little South Branch of the Pere Marquette.
• Creation Station: Discover the wonder of tying flys for fly fishing with Mayfly Project mentors! You’ll learn how to tie the famous Woolly Bugger, and will be able to take your creations home with you. Supplies will be provided.
• Exploration Station: Land Conservancy of West Michigan staff will lead a guided hike of McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve. Learn about the preserve’s ecosystem, what restoration work the Land Conservancy of West Michigan has been doing, and how the health of a water system is connected to the health of the land around it. The hike will cover ~1 mile on uneven, natural surface trails.

There will also be opportunities to meet Mayfly Project mentors and Land Conservancy of West Michigan staff to learn more about their work and how you can get involved!

This event will happen rain or shine – please come dressed for the weather. Snacks and beverages will be provided. Tickets for this event are $10. Proceeds from sales will go directly to funding the projects and programming of The Mayfly Project and the Land Conservancy of West Michigan.

Please reach out to kendra@naturenearby.org with any questions.

Register to Attend