River MEETS Rivalry

HIGH SCHOOL FLY FISHING TOURNAMENT

High School Fly Fishing tournament

Arkansas River Fly Fish Tournament – Cast for Conservation

High school students are invited to take part in the High School Fly Fish Tournament in Cañon City — a unique event where competitive angling meets conservation education. Hosted by the Southern Colorado Greenback Chapter of Trout Unlimited, the tournament is designed to inspire a new generation of river stewards while offering a challenging and rewarding experience on the Arkansas River.

Open to high school students in grades 9–12, teams of two will compete in two fishing sessions, judged on the size and total length of the fish caught. But this isn’t just about catching trout — it’s about learning to fish responsibly. Through hands-on conservation presentations and strict catch-and-release rules, students will develop a deeper appreciation for protecting local waters and wildlife. Barbless hooks, artificial streamers, and staying within assigned beats are all part of promoting ethical fishing.

The event will be held on October 11, 2025.

  • Each team must register by September 15 and provide one adult volunteer for safety and supervision.

  • The $25 registration fee helps fund Trout Unlimited’s local conservation efforts, including habitat restoration.

  • Students 16 and older must also secure a valid Colorado fishing license.

Throughout the day, students will receive safety briefings, attend educational talks, and learn about the Arkansas River’s ecosystem — one of Colorado’s most important fisheries. Awards will be given for top catches (total length) and largest Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout. With lunch and post-fishing dinner provided, community support, and guidance from local volunteers, this event is about more than fishing — it’s about building leadership, environmental awareness, and lifelong outdoor skills.

This tournament is powered by the Leo Gomolchak (Gomo) Grant and supported by dedicated local partners. Don’t miss your chance to cast for a cause — and make a difference.

volunteer sign up

register here

Sponsor

protecting our rivers

The High School Fly Fish Tournament is more than just a friendly competition — it’s a way for students to connect with nature and give back to the Arkansas River. Held in Cañon City, this day-long event combines fly fishing, conservation, and community to help protect one of Colorado’s most treasured rivers. Open to high schoolers in grades 9–12, it’s a chance to learn, compete, and make a real difference.

Why this matters

It’s all about protecting the river while learning to fish. Protecting the river, connecting with the outdoors, and fishing in a sustainable manner..

What to gain

Real skills, great memories, and a stronger bond with nature.

A huge thank you to our title sponsor: royal gorge anglers

Fly Fishing Tournament Information

October 11, 2025
Cañon City, CO

Eligibility & Registration

  • Open to high school students (grades 9–12).

  • Teams must consist of 2 students and provide one adult volunteer (18 years or older).
    This is not an optional request.

  • Entry fee: $25 per team (check or online payment—details provided after registration).

  • Deadline to register: September 15, 2025

Fishing Rules & Conservation

  • Colorado Fishing License is required for ages 16+ (purchase at cpw.state.co.us)

  • Catch-and-release only. No bait allowed — artificial flies/lures only.

  • Barbless hooks are strongly encouraged.

  • Each fish must be measured by a beat judge and released with a volunteer present.

  • Leaving your assigned beat = 5-point deduction.

Awards

  • Largest Brown Trout

  • Largest Rainbow Trout

  • Total Length (Best 4 Fish)

  • The earliest recorded catch decides tie-breakers.

Safety & Gear

  • Adult volunteers must remain with their team at all times.

  • Safety briefing is mandatory at 8:15 AM.

  • Bring: boots, waders, layered clothing, a hat, sunglasses, water, and sunscreen.

Conduct & Community

  • Respect the river, wildlife, and fellow anglers.

  • No littering or riverbank damage.

  • Disputes handled by the event coordinator; decisions are final.

Event Logistics

  • Lunch and pizza included (vegetarian & gluten-free options available).

  • Teams are responsible for their own transportation to and from beats.

  • The event runs rain or shine (except in unsafe river conditions).

Made Possible By

This event is supported by the Leo Gomolchak (Gomo) Grant and our generous community sponsors like Royal Gorge Anglers.

Questions?

Contact Jonathan Haas at jonathan.haas@haastechwriting.com or (219) 306-1419.