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Retreats

Though only a few days in duration, a Reel Recovery Retreat can be a life-changing event for men affected by cancer. The program blends outdoor activity, for a much-needed escape to the calm of nature, with directed conversations where bonds are formed between men sharing similar experiences.

 

Led by professional psychosocial facilitators and expert

fly-fishing instructors, Retreats are offered at no cost to the participants. A maximum of fourteen men are invited to participate in each Retreat to ensure the quality of the instruction and a relaxed small-group dynamic.

 

Men at any stage of treatment, recovery, or in full remission from any type of cancer are eligible to attend one Retreat, and no previous fishing experience is necessary. Medical clearance from a physician is required. The Retreats are designed to provide support around the impacts of cancer along with introductory instruction in the sport of

fly-fishing.

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“I went to the Retreat a man ready to give in to my despair and desperation, and now, two months later, my life is full of promise, hope and the support of new, cherished friends.”
-Participant

Retreat Activities

Reel Recovery Retreats are conducted over a two-and-a-half day period at a fly-fishing facility/lodge with onsite or nearby fishing access. All meals, lodging, and fly-fishing equipment are provided at no cost. Participants are only responsible for their own transportation to and from the retreat.

Each retreat includes:

  • Fly-fishing basics, casting, and catching instruction, covered by on-the-water teaching from experienced fly-fishers.

  • “Courageous Conversations” facilitated by a psychosocial professional to enhance communication and sharing of life stories.

  • Catch-and-release fly-fishing, with one-on-one assistance from experienced “Fishing Buddies”, either on a stream, river, or pond.

  • Opening and closing ceremonies, to promote camaraderie, communication, and lasting friendships.

  • Post-retreat communication, to facilitate continued conversations, networking, and new fly-fishing opportunities.

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Find a Retreat

United States

International

2025 Retreat Schedule

April 4 - 6, 2025

Waring,  TX

April 11 - 13, 2025

Marysville, Victoria AUS (Austrlia Residents Only)

April 25 - 27, 2025

Glen Rose, TX

April 28 - 30, 2025

Steelville, MO

May 2 - 4, 2025

Ennis, MT

May 2 - 4, 2025

Navasota, TX

May 5 -7, 2025

Syria, VA

May 14 - 16, 2025

Bridgeport, CA

May 19 - 21, 2025

Rangeley, ME

May 21 - 23, 2025

Jamestown, KY

May 30 - June 1, 2025

Shawnee, CO

June 2 - 4, 2025

Altamont, UT

June 2 - 4, 2025

Middlebury, IN 

June 16 - 18, 2025

Boiling Springs, PA

June 17 - 19, 2025

Clyde, OH

June 23  - 25, 2025

Traverse City, MI

June 29 - July 1, 2025

Elkton, OR

July 11 - 13, 2025

Mackay, ID

September 3 - 5, 2025

River Falls, WI

September 7 - 9, 2025

Broken Bow, OK

September 12 - 14, 2025

Hexham, England (UK Residents Only)

September 15 - 17, 2025

Rangeley, ME

September 19 - 21, 2025

Waring, TX (Veterans & Active Military Only)

September 19 - 21, 2025

Shawnee, CO

September 23 - 25, 2025

Bridgeport, CA

September 26 - 28, 2025

Glen Rose, TX

October 3 - 5, 2025

Spruce Pine, NC

October 3 - 5, 2025

Navasota, TX

October 6 - 8, 2025

Paradise, UT

October 13 - 15, 2025

Syria, VA (Veterans & Active Military Only

October 27 - 29, 2025

Flippin, AR

November 4 - 6, 2025

Turangi, New Zealand (NZ Residents Only)

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"Thank you for helping me see there’s a light at the end of this tunnel.
I will never forget these few days."

-Participant

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