Upcoming RMFTU Events.
Leave it to the Beavers
Leave it to the Beavers
Beavers: Architects of Wildfire Resistance
with Dr. Emily Fairfax
Join us for a speaker series all about beavers and resilient watersheds!
Co-hosted by Wildlands Restoration Volunteers (WRV), Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed (CPRW), Larimer Conservation District (LCD), and Rocky Mountain Flycasters (RMF), this monthly series (Feb–Sept 2026) brings together experts and community members to explore the powerful role beavers play in creating healthy, resilient ecosystems.
The June event in our Leave it to the Beavers speaker series is “Beavers: Architects of Wildfire Resistance" with Dr. Emily Fairfax.
Beaver dams and beaver mimicry structures are gaining traction as a low-cost, nature-based strategy for climate resilience. By slowing and storing water during wet periods, beavers keep riparian corridors well-watered and green, making them far less flammable during droughts. Dr. Fairfax's research shows these beaver-influenced areas serve as fire refugia, preserving mature riparian habitat even during megafires, and in some cases, actively altering wildfire behavior and spread. As evidence grows, it's becoming clear that partnering with beaver ecosystem engineering may be one of our most effective tools for building drought- and fire-resistant landscapes across the American and Canadian West.
Join us to discuss how to live with, protect, and empower these aquatic eco system engineers!
Arctic Grayling on the Fly - Joe Wright Reservoir
Arctic Grayling on the Fly
Joe Wright Reservoir
RMF Chapter Fishing Trip, Friday, June 26th
Joe Wright Reservoir
This is a DIY trip. There will be NO formal HOST. A chance to meet up with some fellow anglers.
If you have never caught an Arctic Grayling, this is your chance! This one-day trip to Joe Wright, way up Poudre Canyon, near Cameron Pass. About 1 ½ Hours’ drive from north Fort Collins.
Grayling will be getting ready to run up Joe Wright Creek to spawn. Fishing the creek or inlet area is closed due to the spawn, so we will be fishing the cove where the creek enters the lake on the far west end of the lake.
The best fly-fishing method is usually a small bead-head fly under an indicator. Usually, a shiny pattern gets their attention. The grayling are not large – nothing like Alaska – but still can run about 10-13” long. It’s very special to be able to fish for grayling so close to home. And when you lift that great big dorsal fin so the sun lights it up . . . ya, doesn’t get much better than that!
Logistics: Let’s meet at the west end of the lake about 9am. It’s about 1 ½ Hours’ drive from north Fort Collins. Most people just wade fish, although you can use your float tube also.
Grayling are rather small, so your 2-5 wt rods will be good. 4x-5x tippet will suffice, and most bead-head nymphs in sizes 12-16 should work just fine.
We hope you can make it – we’ll have a blast!
CTU Troutfest Colorado
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Join Us for Troutfest Colorado at Coors Field – Free & Family-Friendly!
Troutfest Colorado is back. Join us on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 12 PM to 5 PM at Coors Field for a free, family-friendly festival celebrating community, conservation, and education. Come enjoy live music, fly tying demos, a kids' activity area, and even stadium tours. Whether you're an experienced angler or just curious about the outdoors, there's something for everyone. Register today and be part of the fun. Sponsored by the Colorado Wildlife Council and the Colorado Lottery.
Leadership Council Meeting
RMF Leadership Council Meeting
First Tuesday of each month
Planning meeting for Committee Chairs and specific invitees
Zoom Meeting Link: https://zoom.us/j/95956728820?pwd=ZmwwZklEODJhc0RIalVOTXZ3V3B5QT09
RMF Board Meeting 6:30 – 8:00pm [All Members Welcome]
Interested in learning more about RMFTU or getting involved in a leadership position? Our every other month board meeting is held every second Wednesday of the month and is open to anyone to join. Join us virtually, using this Zoom Link.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Source: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/95956728820?pwd=ZmwwZklEODJhc0RIalVOTXZ3V3B5QT09
RMNP "Brookies Bash" FF Fun Trip
FLY FISHING "FUN TRIP"
COLORADO RIVER HEADWATERS
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
ONLY 15 SPOTS AVAILABLE!
BROOKIES GALORE!
This trip is typically one of the of hopefully many FF Fun Trips again this year. RMNP timed gate entry regulations apply again this year beginning in May, so you might want to consider making reservations with plenty of lead time. (See the Timed Entry Information HERE)
The mighty Colorado River's headwaters present an entirely different character at about 8,800 feet before it transitions onto the flat, wide meadows crossing Kawuneeche Valley. Its early headwaters’ gentle reaches ascend through cool shadows cast by towering spruce and pine, and here its headwaters surround you with beautiful and exciting mystique. Each of its endless meanders holds a new challenge as the river gently surrenders elevation after its upper reaches pass through the historic Lulu City mining town’s ghostly remains several miles above, though still well below its 10,184’ LaPoudre Pass origin.
For a short distance, at first…you might encounter a Plein Aire artist in a nearby meadow off to your right capturing in his brush strokes the grandeur of the Grand Canal suspended from the majestic peaks of the Never Summer Range whose spine boasts the Continental Divide immediately to the West. Or a young couple may steal quietly by you with hands clasped eagerly seeking a hidden niche to share private moments...or through the brush you may spy an elderly couple on lawn chairs shaded by a sprawling fir, reading and enjoying warmth radiating from the meadow’s sun line...all of these escaping life’s fast pace.
One can’t wade these reaches without reflecting upon the history that unfolded along these same banks a hundred years ago. And then suddenly behind you, just out of sight there sounds thundering hoof beats that send chills up your back…and you freeze in your tracks and turn your head to see a large moose hurrying off across yet another small meadow into the trees. He probably had been guardedly watching since several earlier turns when you noisily crossed the stream where it had narrowed. What a wonderland where every bend holds a new scene, a new allure, a new mystery that peaks your imagination.
Your rod-in-hand wade along these historic headwaters is so easy, relaxing and never tiring. When afternoon shadows begin to lengthen and you wonder if you should probably turn around, there’s always another, and another, beautiful pool just ahead at the next bend…and the next…and so on. The beauty is magnetic; I always hardly allow myself to turn around…but of course, I must, and I begin the quiet walk back downstream, revisiting and drinking in again the feelings I experience as I revisit so many of the familiar scenes that engulfed me on my first visit here a quarter century ago.
This is my absolutely favorite stretch of pristine, Colorado mountain stream! For me it offers the essence of fly fishing. And you too can experience this almost out-of-body peacefulness. And “Oh, yes”, I almost forgot to mention…you can also easily have a 45-50 fish day, not to mention all the spine-tingling misses that wriggled off your hook. Big fish? Very few; but many high-personality, colorful brookies plus an occasional cutthroat. This is a perfect outing for experienced anglers to unwind and laugh at themselves a lot, and for new anglers to learn a lot of valuable insights about how to read water and ‘fish a river’.
Details: 7:00am carpools depart from the Jax Outdoors/Loveland West store located on the corner of West Eisenhower Blvd. (US 34) at Wilson Avenue. Riders share gas expenses with drivers; lunch is together sharing stories on the river, so bring water and pack snacks. At day's end each car's riders choose whether to grab a bite in Estes Park at the Casa Grande Mexican Restaurant, or not, and continue homeward. More details are provided in plenty of time for you to prepare.
To sign up, or if you’ve any questions, email Trip Coordinator, Don Gilmore at president@rmftu.org.
ONLY 15 SPOTS AVAILABLE!
Trek the Thompson hosted by Big Thompson Watershed Coalition
RMF Volunteers needed to staff our booth
Big Thompson Watershed Coalition is hosting our annual Trek the Thompson event on Sunday, July 12th, from 9am-1pm at Fairgrounds Park in Loveland, CO
Join us and other local organizations working to protect and enhance the Big T on Sunday, July 12 from 9am-1pm for a free, family-friendly celebration of the Big Thompson River at the Loveland Farmers Market. Explore hands-on activities, learn about water conservation, wildfire and flood recovery, wildlife, river restoration, and more — all while enjoying a morning at the market.
Plus, visiting Trek stations gives you a chance to win Market Bucks to spend at the Farmers Market!
Come discover, explore, and connect with the Big Thompson River.
Visit the event website to register and learn more about our sponsors and the locally donated prizes.
Rocky Mountain Flycasters is a proud sponsor of this event.
Long Draw Reservoir
Long Draw Reservoir
Long Draw Reservoir
Host: Dave Morse - dgmorse45@gmail.com
Chapter member Dave Morse is organizing a group fishing trip to Long Draw Reservoir near Cameron Pass on Saturday, July 19. July is a great time to fish the lake for beautiful 12-18” cutthroats. Float tubes provide the most access, but you can fish from shore or wade in the inlet creek. We’ll fish the west end near the inlet and Grand View Campground, (40°29'35.0"N 105°48'17.7"W).
The fish love dry flies such as #14-16 Hippy Stompers, Happy Hippies, Stimulators, Amy’s Ants, Chubby Chernobyls, or a Madam X’s. You can add small nymph droppers such as #16-18 red Copper Johns, Pheasant Tails, Rainbow Warriors or Snow Cones. The water is still very cold so we recommend long underwear pants for float tubing.
If you don’t have a float tube, let Dave know and we may be able to find a loaner for you.
You can either meet us up there or meet us at 6:15 am in the NW corner of the N College King Soopers lot in Fort Collins to carpool.
Please RSVP to Dave Morse using the email button below if you plan to join us, or call him at (217) 418-9386!
RMFTU - 2026 NoCO Fly Fishing Day Camp
Rocky Mountain Flycaster's Trout Unlimited's (RMFTU) Day Youth Camp starts July 20th, and we're looking for volunteers to help pull it off. One of the ways we preserve fly fishing and coldwater fisheries is by sharing our enjoyment and knowledge with the next generation, and that's what our camp is all about.
Check out the link below to see the remaining opportunities to pitch in for this year's camp:
Being an Assistant Driver is a good way to help and have a good time. You can spend a day riding with campers and participating in whatever the activities the camp is conducting. You don’t have to be an expert at anything, but just have to want the campers to have a great experience.
If you have any questions email camp coordinator John Bryant using the link below:
Many of you know and love St. Peters Fly Shops in Fort Collins. It’s where many of us go to get our gear and fishing news.
Great news has come once again from the shop as Owner Grant Houx has raised his hand to sponsor our Youth Camp this summer. St. Petes was involved with assisting with our Camp last year and has really stepped up again this year. As you may know, Grant and his team organized and planned three movie nights this winter and spring, with the last one in May at the Lyric. Proceeds from two of these movie nights went to our chapter. In addition, Grant donated a top of the line rod and reel for our Trout Fishing Expo back in March that netted over $3,000 alone due to the generous support of our members and many others.
St. Petes also promised to dedicate 4 guides for the two days we will be on the water with our campers - outstanding!
Thanks to St Petes, our Youth Camp, July 20th to 24th, is fully funded and twelve youth ages 14-17 will have one heck of a great week!
Lake Agnes, Hike & Fish
Lake Agnes
Hike & Fish
Destination: Lake Agnes, State Forest State Park
(via the Lake Agnes trailhead) (See Map)
Host: Bill Adkison - hwmadkison@gmail.com
New location will be at Lake Agnes, still located in State Forest State Park. This is short, but steep scramble/hike just under 1 mile up, with over 400 feet of elevation gain. (See Map) This lake holds cutthroat, and there's a good chance for a moose sighting. The last mile in the park leading to the trailhead may require a 4WD vehicle. A truck is capable, but it would be nice to have a 2nd volunteer driver with 4WD.
The plan is to have a group of 8-10 meet at JAX North, 1200 N College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524 and we can carpool together. It is a 1.5+ hour drive to the trailhead so we would leave JAX at 7:30AM with an 9AM start for the hike. We'll head back early in the afternoon, depending on the weather.
Please bring plenty of water, food and proper gear for this hike. Its tough but worth it!
Please let me know if you have any questions, you can email Bill at hwmadkison@gmail.com
or text me at 575-770-2490.
Please RSVP to Bill Adkison using the email button below if you plan to join us, or text him at 575-770-2490!
Leadership Council Meeting
RMF Leadership Council Meeting
First Tuesday of each month
Planning meeting for Committee Chairs and specific invitees
Zoom Meeting Link: https://zoom.us/j/95956728820?pwd=ZmwwZklEODJhc0RIalVOTXZ3V3B5QT09
Poudre RiverFest
2026 Information Coming Soon
Poudre RiverFest
-VOLUNTEERS NEEDED-
Join RMFTU and New Belgium from Noon - 6 p.m. to celebrate the Poudre River!
The Poudre RiverFest is a free, family-friendly festival that celebrates the Poudre River, promotes restoration, and educates people about our river corridor, an important natural resource in our community. The festival features activities for children and adults to explore the role of the river as an important habitat for wildlife, a lively recreation area, and a source for clean drinking water.
For current information visit the the Poudre RiverFest website.
Small Stream Fishing in RMNP
Small Stream Fishing in RMNP
(Fall River 2025)
Destination RMNP (probably Fall River)
Host: Bill Gillett - billgillett920@gmail.com
Fishing for Brook, Brown and Cutthroat trout (90% Brookies).
Because of the limited fishing area(s) and parking, we will be limiting the number of people to 12.
We will meet at 7:00 am and leave at 7:15 am at the Southeast corner of JAX Outdoors Loveland (Wilson and Hwy 34) parking lot to set up carpooling.
Please, respond by July 31st. I will send more information on equipment, flies etc. when we have the final list of people.
In the meantime, you can email me at billgillett920@gmail.com or call/text at 970-412-2853
.
Please RSVP to Bill Gillett using the email button below if you plan to join us, or call him at 970-412-2853!
Leadership Council Meeting
RMF Leadership Council Meeting
First Tuesday of each month
Planning meeting for Committee Chairs and specific invitees
Zoom Meeting Link: https://zoom.us/j/95956728820?pwd=ZmwwZklEODJhc0RIalVOTXZ3V3B5QT09
RMF Board Meeting 6:30 – 8:00pm [All Members Welcome]
Interested in learning more about RMFTU or getting involved in a leadership position? Our every other month board meeting is held every second Wednesday of the month and is open to anyone to join. Join us virtually, using this Zoom Link.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Source: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/95956728820?pwd=ZmwwZklEODJhc0RIalVOTXZ3V3B5QT09
Leadership Council Meeting
RMF Leadership Council Meeting
First Tuesday of each month
Planning meeting for Committee Chairs and specific invitees
Zoom Meeting Link: https://zoom.us/j/95956728820?pwd=ZmwwZklEODJhc0RIalVOTXZ3V3B5QT09
Leadership Council Meeting
RMF Leadership Council Meeting
First Tuesday of each month
Planning meeting for Committee Chairs and specific invitees
Zoom Meeting Link: https://zoom.us/j/95956728820?pwd=ZmwwZklEODJhc0RIalVOTXZ3V3B5QT09
RMF Board Meeting 6:30 – 8:00pm [All Members Welcome]
Interested in learning more about RMFTU or getting involved in a leadership position? Our every other month board meeting is held every second Wednesday of the month and is open to anyone to join. Join us virtually, using this Zoom Link.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Source: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/95956728820?pwd=ZmwwZklEODJhc0RIalVOTXZ3V3B5QT09
Leadership Council Meeting
RMF Leadership Council Meeting
First Tuesday of each month
Planning meeting for Committee Chairs and specific invitees
Zoom Meeting Link: https://zoom.us/j/95956728820?pwd=ZmwwZklEODJhc0RIalVOTXZ3V3B5QT09
RMFTU Adopt-a-Highway Cleanup
RMFTU Adopt-a-Highway Cleanup
Love the outdoors?
Want to make a visible difference right here in our community?
Join the Rocky Mountain Flycasters as we care for our adopted section of the Poudre Highway.
Be part of the impact:
Help keep this beautiful stretch of highway clean and enjoyable for everyone by picking up litter along our 2 mile section.
Why join us?
Give back to a canyon and river we all love
Great for individuals, families, or small groups
Enjoy fresh air while supporting local conservation
We’ve got you covered:
Trash bags provided by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)
CDOT handles trash pickup and disposal
Our chapter is recognized with signage along the highway
Good to know:
We will only be collecting litter in the Highway right of way (not the river itself)
Bring gloves!
Ongoing opportunity during our adoption period
Step outside, make a difference, and help us keep the Poudre Canyon beautiful—one stretch at a time!
Before the event:
Sign up in iVolunteer, view the required videos, sign a waiver.
Attend a virtual safety meeting on June 18th at 6:00 pm
All participants must be over the age of ten.
Event will be canceled in the case of inclement weather.
CDOT will provide orange safety vests and trash bags
Contact: Susanne Cordery | secretary@rmftu.org
RMFTU Adopt-a-Highway - Req’d Training (Virtual)
RMFTU Adopt-a-Highway Cleanup Required Safety Training
Required Virtual Safety Training
Join the Rocky Mountain Flycasters as we care for our adopted section of the Poudre Highway.
Before the event:
Attend a virtual safety meeting on June 18th at 6:00 pm
Join the Zoom Meeting using the link below.
https://zoom.us/j/95956728820?pwd=ZmwwZklEODJhc0RIalVOTXZ3V3B5QT09
Sign up in iVolunteer, view the required videos, sign a waiver.
Be part of the impact:
Help keep this beautiful stretch of highway clean and enjoyable for everyone by picking up litter along our 2 mile section.
Why join us?
Give back to a canyon and river we all love
Great for individuals, families, or small groups
Enjoy fresh air while supporting local conservation
We’ve got you covered:
Trash bags provided by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)
CDOT handles trash pickup and disposal
Our chapter is recognized with signage along the highway
Good to know:
We will only be collecting litter in the Highway right of way (not the river itself)
Bring gloves!
Ongoing opportunity during our adoption period
Step outside, make a difference, and help us keep the Poudre Canyon beautiful—one stretch at a time!
Before the event:
Sign up in iVolunteer, view the required videos, sign a waiver.
Attend a virtual safety meeting on June 18th at 6:00 pm
Join the Zoom Meeting
All participants must be over the age of ten.
Event will be canceled in the case of inclement weather.
CDOT will provide orange safety vests and trash bags
Contact: Susanne Cordery | secretary@rmftu.org
BTWC Living with Fire
Wildfire is part of Colorado’s past and its future. The question is: will we help shape the role of fire on our landscapes, or wait for wildfire to decide for us?
Join Big Thompson Watershed Coalition for Living with Fire: The Future of Our Forests, a free pub talk and panel discussion at City Star Brewing in Berthoud.
Panelists from Big Thompson Watershed Coalition, The Nature Conservancy, Colorado State Forest Service, and the Colorado Forest Restoration Institute will come together for a conversation about forest health, wildfire resilience, prescribed fire, and what it takes to build more fire-adapted landscapes and communities.
This free event is a chance to learn, ask questions, and be part of an important conversation about living with fire in the Northern Front Range.
Thursday, June 18
5:30–7:00 PM
City Star Brewing | Berthoud, CO
BTWC will buy the first beer for the first 20 people who RSVP on Eventbrite and attend the event.
RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/living-with-fire-the-future-of-our-forests-tickets-1990822182740
I hope you can join us!!
CTU River Conservation and Fly Fishing Camp
CTU River Conservation and Fly Fishing Camp
Camper Registration is Now Open!
We are excited to announce that registration is now open for our 2026 River Conservation and Fly Fishing Camp. Camp will be June 14 - 20, 2026 at AEI Base Camp, Almont CO.
Applications are due March 1, 2026
Take Me to the River Fundraiser
4th Annual Take Me to the River Fundraiser
June 12, 2026 • 5-9:30pm • Fort Collins, CO
This event is SOLD OUT.
You’re Invited! Join us for the 4th Annual Take Me to the River - a gathering to support and celebrate the Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed (CPRW), your local watershed group working to improve and maintain the ecological health of the Poudre River through community collaboration.
Tickets include:
Full dinner included, inspired by locally-grown ingredients (GF and vegetarian options available)
Open bar featuring Little Cache Kernza Rye Ale, a collaborative brew from Horse & Dragon Brewing, New Belgium Brewing Co., Odell Brewing Co. plus wine from OBC Wine Project, all crafted using Poudre River water (of course!)
Fundraising for critical projects and programs throughout the Cache la Poudre River Watershed
Live music from New Pleasant Valley String Band, bringing a mix of traditional square dances, waltzes, and two-steps rooted in the Missouri Ozark style.
Interactive photo booth2026 Dick Jefferies Partner for the Poudre Award and the CPRW Volunteer of the Year Award
Educational programming about the Poudre River
Celebration of CPRW and partners’ accomplishments over the past year and fundraising for the year ahead!
The event is at a private property in northwest Fort Collins. Guests will be notified of the address after purchasing tickets.
This event is SOLD OUT.
Help Kids Fish Colorado Free Fishing Day
Help Kids Fish on Colorado Free Fishing Day (June 6th)
Volunteers are needed for the USFS Canyon Lakes Ranger District kids (<15) fishing day at West Lake in Red Feather Lakes. This event will be on Saturday, June 6th. The Forest Service will give each kid a spin rod that is rigged with a hook and a bobber, and provide bait. Some fly rods are usually available for older kids who want to try fly fishing.
Rocky Mountain Flycasters usually provides a few volunteers to help the kids fish. The problems can include just about anything you can imagine. Kids start arriving around 8:30 AM and leave around noon, and volunteers usually finish up around 1:00 pm.
Volunteers show up at 7:45 am and can park in the Forest Service employee area where the cabins are, which is the first right after the parking lot on Dowdy Lake road.
Leadership Council Meeting
RMF Leadership Council Meeting
First Tuesday of each month
Planning meeting for Committee Chairs and specific invitees
Zoom Meeting Link: https://zoom.us/j/95956728820?pwd=ZmwwZklEODJhc0RIalVOTXZ3V3B5QT09
Fire Lives Here - BTWC - Film Event
Fire Lives Here
Film Screening
May 27 @ 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Tickets: $16
The Big Thompson Watershed Coalition in collaboration with the Northern Colorado Fireshed Collaborative, the National Forest Foundation, Peaks to People Water Fund, and the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, are offering a film screening of “Fire Lives Here”. This powerful documentary explores Colorado’s evolving relationship with wildfire and the growing movement to return planned fire to the landscape as a strategy to reduce the risk of destructive fires and create more resilient forests.
Filmed over two years across Colorado’s Front Range, Fire Lives Here goes beyond the flames to showcase the year-round work of firefighters, scientists, land managers, and local communities working to return controlled fire back to Colorado’s forests. Directed by Aaron Colussi and Left of Frame, the film showcases the coordinated planning, implementation, and preparation involved in prescribed fire—and examines the effects of the Alexander Mountain Fire as it moved through areas that had undergone forest treatments. The film screening will be followed by a panel with local experts and land managers to discuss building resilience across our landscapes and the role fire plays in this work.
DISCOVER FLY FISHING
So you've thought about fly fishing on the rivers and lakes but you don't know where to start, and it looked difficult, and maybe expensive. Rocky Mountain Flycasters Chapter of Trout Unlimited has an opportunity for you to learn about fly fishing as a one-day instructional class. As a part of the class, you'll receive instruction in fly casting outdoors in the park. All equipment provided.
Age 10+, under age 15 parent/guardian required.
*Search the Loveland Parks & Rec Activity Guide for Class #359154
“Discover” is a part of the STREAM Series oriented to youth, adults, and families. Taking the curriculum of an introduction to fly fishing this program utilizes a series of presentations and practices. Participants can expect to learn about the equipment for fly fishing, how to identify trout habitat, trout diet and macroinvertebrates, what fishing flies resemble and how standard fly patterns are tied, how to cast a fly rod, and the role conservation plays in thriving trout streams.
![Volunteer Opportunity Meeting 6:30 - 8:30 PM [All Existing and Prospective Members Welcome] NOTE: Day and Location Change from Normal](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e267d66de6f0056c7bd77e5/1778687985637-HXLPNZVFP41OOJQZKK5V/RMFTU_26_logo-color_Vert_Pub_n_Dub_Sqr_.jpg){kind=logo}
Volunteer Opportunity Meeting 6:30 - 8:30 PM [All Existing and Prospective Members Welcome] NOTE: Day and Location Change from Normal
Guest Speaker: Karin Miller
Owner and Founder of
Zen Tenkara/Zen Fly Fishing Gear
Our Chapter Gathering in May will be our Volunteer Opportunity Meeting
NOTE: this will to be held at SCHEELS, (2nd Floor Meeting Rooms, beyond the ‘Shooting Gallery’)
At our membership gathering this May we plan to have a great overview of projects and volunteer opportunities this summer and fall.
We will have a Guest Speaker; Karin Miller who is Owner and Founder of Zen Tenkara/Zen Fly Fishing Gear, who will give a talk entitled "Destinations Around the Globe: Things to Consider".
After Karin’s talk, we will hear about volunteer opportunities from our committee chairs. In addition to that, we will have breakouts for many other chapter areas such as Conservation, Education (to include Youth Camp), Membership, Events, Leadership, Financial Development, Social Media, and our Veterans Services Program. Yes, we have something of interest for almost everyone!
We hope you will attend and see if something grabs your attention! As you know, we are an all-volunteer organization, and need good people like you to help run our chapter.
We will also have our typical fishing equipment Ticket Raffle that you can participate in.
Join us at 6:30pm for socializing and lots of talk about fishing.
This Month’s Fly Swap: Any May Fly pattern. Contact, Dave Morse for details.
We hope you will be there!
2026 North Park Spring Cleanup
2026 North Park Spring Cleanup
Join us for one of our first volunteer opportunities of the year as we partner with CPW on a cleanup day in North Park. On Thursday, May 21st, 2026 we will be partnering with Colorado Parks and Wildlife on their annual large-scale SWA cleanup day in North Park. We will plan on meeting at 9:00 am at the northernmost shade shelter at Lake John SWA, approximate coordinates 40.79324, -106.47307.
We will be focusing primarily on Lake John SWA and Delaney Butte Lakes SWA, cleaning fire pits and picking up trash. We will also send a small group around to clean up several smaller SWAs. After the clean up (with enough people - early afternoon) we will be having a cookout (food TBD) at the Walden Warehouse, 285 Grant Street, Walden, CO. More details to follow. Anyone who wants to come is welcome (family, friends, co-workers, temporaries, randoms, etc.), the more the merrier (and quicker)!
If you want to camp before or after (and have a fishing license or SWA Permit), there is free dispersed camping at Lake John SWA and Delaney Butte SWA.
If you are planning on coming, please sign up so a plan for food can be made.
Volunteer Waiver (required):
Please complete the one-time waiver in advance: Complete Volunteer Waiver
If you’re interested or have any questions send an e-mail to Louis Moeller at louis.moeller@state.co.us.
Big Thompson Stream Clean Up
Big Thompson Stream Clean Up
Saturday, May 16, 2026, 9 AM to Noon
Sponsored By
Big Thompson Stream Clean Up - Saturday, May 16, 2026, 9 AM to Noon
Three Trout Unlimited Chapters (Boulder Flycasters, Rocky Mountain Flycasters and St. Vrain Anglers) and Arbor Anglers of Lafayette, CO will be sponsoring a stream clean-up on the Big Thompson in Estes Park area on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 9 AM to noon. There should be plenty of time to catch the afternoon hatch after the event.
We hope to be able to have enough volunteers to be able to clean up most of the fi shing pull outs and parking areas on Highway 34 between Olympus Dam and Forks Park at Drake.
We will supply nitrile gloves, trash bags, trash grabbers as well as coffee, water and snacks. If possible, please bring waders. Since the volunteers will be working in the parking areas and pull-outs on Highway 34 all volunteers should be over the age of 16 or accompanied by an adult. We will meet at 8:45 AM at the Estes Park Visitors Center, 500 Big Thompson Ave. which is across the street from McDonalds. We will be on the east side of the visitors center in the parking lot and we will have sign-in tables set up so we will be easy to find.
To sign up please use the following link, https://rmftu.ivolunteer.com/big_t_cleanup_001 or if you have any additional questions please e-mail Lynn Williams, vicepresident@rmftu.org.
We hope you will be able to join us on Saturday, May 16, 2026
RMF Board Meeting 6:30 – 8:00pm
Interested in learning more about RMFTU or getting involved in a leadership position? Our every other month board meeting is held every second Wednesday of the month and is open to anyone to join. Join us virtually, using this Zoom Link. All Members Welcome
We look forward to seeing you there!
Source: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/95956728820?pwd=ZmwwZklEODJhc0RIalVOTXZ3V3B5QT09
Children’s Water Festival - Greeley
Children’s Water Festival
Teaching kids via hands-on lessons about the importance of water resources is the purpose of Expedition Colorado and the Water Festivals in Greeley and Fort Lupton. Rocky Mountain Flycasters has traditionally been a presenter at the day long events teaching stream ecology and conservation with the "Who Eats Who at the Stream Game". It’s a fun way to interact with youth and you don’t have to be an expert at anything.
You can sign up to volunteer Here as a Game Guide for a half day or a full day. A full information packet including Game instructions and Expedition/Festival parking and entry directions will be provided to all volunteers.
Children’s Water Festival
CTU 2026 River Stewardship Champions Gala
The 2026 River Stewardship Champions Gala
Thursday, May 12th, 5:00 - 8:30 pm at the
The Cable Center, University of Denver
Hosted By
Leadership Council Meeting
RMF Leadership Council Meeting
First Tuesday of each month
Planning meeting for Committee Chairs and specific invitees
Zoom Meeting Link: https://zoom.us/j/95956728820?pwd=ZmwwZklEODJhc0RIalVOTXZ3V3B5QT09
Pub & Dub Fly Tying Social (Last One for this Season)
Green Butt Skunk Chenille
Green Butt Skunk Wool
Please RSVP to Marty (Pub-n-Dub@rmftu.org) before each session, and let him know if you need a loaner vise or tools.
This is the LAST Pub-n-Dub for the 2025-2026 season!
This months Pub & Dub will be Monday, May 4th at 6:00 PM in the loft area at the rear of the taproom at the Gilded Goat Brewery and Taproom, 3500 S. College Ave in Fort Collins. Come and join us for an evening of socialization, swapping fish stories from your summer and maybe even learning a new pattern.
“Pub and Dub” is a free event hosted by the Rocky Mountain Flycasters TU Chapter for members and friends to meet, have a beverage and tie flies. Marty Staab will designate a “Fly of the Month”, and the Chapter provides all tying materials (vises and tools as needed) along with video tying instructions on the big screen TV. Tyers of all abilities are welcome, and first time tyers will find themselves surrounded by others happy to assist.
Please RSVP to Marty (Pub-n-Dub@rmftu.org) before each session, and let him know if you need a loaner vise or tools.
Please thank and support our hosts at Gilded Goat Brewery and Taproom by purchasing a beverage.
This Months Pattern: Green Butt Skunk
Green Butt Skunk
The Green Butt Skunk is western steelhead pattern that has been around a long time, Maybe it's not practical for fishing around here, but who cares? This pattern is a fun tie on a beautiful hook, a great introduction to some salmonfly basics, and even your first attempt is likely to be pretty enough to stick in your hat for display!
Instructions: Green Butt Skunk tips WEB.pdf
Video: Green Butt Skunk Chenille - YouTube and Green Butt Skunk Wool - YouTube
Big Thompson Fishing Trip
Big Thompson Fishing Trip
Hosts: Mickey McGuire and
Lynn Williams
(Photo from 2025 Trip)
Big Thompson - Forks Park (Near Drake) - Hosts: Mickey McGuire & Lynn Williams
We’ll meet at the Forks Park lot at 9:00 AM and have lunch around Noon.
Please RSVP Lynn at vicepresident@rmftu.org so we can plan lunch.
Annual Trip to Grey Reef
Join RMFTU on our
Annual Trip to Grey Reef
Join RMFTU on our Annual Trip to Grey Reef
Friday April 24th - Sunday April 26th
Ben Zomer will be our host this year.
Ben will take a trip to the North Platte to fish Grey Reef and surrounding areas. He has room for a total of eight people (seven plus himself).
We will be staying at two of the cottages behind the Reef Fly Shop.
This is first come, first serve, so let Ben know ASAP if you are interested.
Ben's email is benmz@comcast.net
April is a great time to fish “The Reef," and the fish are really nice – mostly big rainbows!
Dixon Resevoir Habitat Development
Dixon Reservoir Habitat Development - Rubble pile creation
Volunteer Opportunity: Habitat Enhancement Project
We are seeking volunteers to assist with a habitat enhancement project at Dixon Reservoir in Fort Collins on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Project Description:
The work will involve moving 20–60 lb rocks into UTVs for transport and unloading them to create rubble piles on riprap along the reservoir bottom.
What to Bring:
Work gloves
Appropriate clothing
Sturdy footwear
Water bottle
Provided: Colorado Parks and Wildlife will provide tools if needed.
Volunteer Waiver (required):
Please complete the one-time waiver in advance: Complete Volunteer Waiver
Accessibility:
If you have any physical limitations, please let us know in advance so we can plan tasks accordingly.
Meeting Location & Time:
Please arrive at the Dixon Reservoir parking lot no later than 9:00 AM.
The project will consist of helping loading and unloading 20-60 pound rocks from a UTV and install rip rap to create "rubble piles" for habitat.
Earth Day Fort Collins
earth is What we all have in common —Wendell Berry
The Earth Needs Us to Unite
We’re excited to share that Earth Day Fort Collins will be hosted at Odell Brewing Company, creating a vibrant, welcoming space for our community to come together in celebration of sustainability and climate action. Odell Brewing has long been a leader in environmental stewardship, making them a natural partner and an ideal setting for a free, family-friendly event that brings together education, hands-on activities, youth engagement, and local solutions.
This year also marks an exciting expansion of our impact through our new partnerships with Odells and the Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed. Together, we’re elevating the importance of river health and watershed protection, connecting community members with meaningful, action-oriented opportunities to care for one of Northern Colorado’s most vital natural resources.
We Need Volunteers to
Help With our Booth
Leave it to the Beavers
Leave it to the Beavers: Beavers in Colorado
Chew on This:
Beaver Management in Colorado
Join us for a speaker series all about beavers and resilient watersheds!
Co-hosted by Wildlands Restoration Volunteers (WRV), Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed (CPRW), Larimer Conservation District (LCD), and Rocky Mountain Flycasters (RMF), this monthly series (Feb–Sept 2026) brings together experts and community members to explore the powerful role beavers play in creating healthy, resilient ecosystems.
The April event in our Leave it to the Beavers speaker series is “Chew on This: Beaver Management in Colorado" with Boyd Wright and Brian Sullivan from CPW.
For decades, beavers were seen as a problem. Now, they are being recognized as a keystone species essential to Colorado's climate strategy. Led by Colorado Parks & Wildlife staff, we’ll explore the new statewide Beaver Conservation and Management Strategy (BCMS), covering everything from translocation protocols to cutting-edge coexistence techniques.
Join us to discuss how to live with, protect, and empower these aquatic eco system engineers!
![General Member Gathering 6:30 - 8:30 PM [All Existing and Prospective Members Welcome]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e267d66de6f0056c7bd77e5/1772144246958-GFQGSB5GPICNC0XS3XVZ/RMFTU_26_logo-color_Vert_Genl_Mtg_Sqr_1.jpg){kind=logo}
General Member Gathering 6:30 - 8:30 PM [All Existing and Prospective Members Welcome]
Our Chapter Gathering – Join us in-person!
This meeting will be at the Fort Collins Senior Center
NO, it’s NOTjust forold people, it’s just a good place to meet.
At our membership meetings this Fall we plan to take some time for our newer members to meet other chapter members. And hopefully start developing new friendships and meeting new fishing friends. Join us at 6:30 for socializing, the meeting kicks off at 7:00. We hope you will be there!
This Month’s Speaker:
Steve Rogers
Mountain Fly Shop
Our speaker this month will be Steve Rogers. Steve resides in Fort Collins and works for the USDA as well as Mountain Fly Shop. He has been a signature tier at the Denver Fly Fishing Show since 2016, and ties at all of the local TU fundraising events, including NOCO Fishing Expo26 (where you may have also seen him tying at the Mountain Fly Shop booth). In addition, Steve is a custom tier for the Fly Fish Guanaja Lodge in Honduras.
In his presentation, Steve will be talking about fly fishing the flats of Guanaja and about Fish for Change - a charitable organization the lodge established as a fly fishing program for international students.
Leadership Council Meeting
RMF Leadership Council Meeting
First Tuesday of each month
Planning meeting for Committee Chairs and specific invitees
Zoom Meeting Link: https://zoom.us/j/95956728820?pwd=ZmwwZklEODJhc0RIalVOTXZ3V3B5QT09
Pub & Dub Fly Tying Social (Monthly on First Monday)
Slump Buster
For the 2025-2026 season we are again holding the event to evenings on the First Monday of the month.
Please RSVP to Marty (Pub-n-Dub@rmftu.org) before each session, and let him know if you need a loaner vise or tools.
This months Pub & Dub will be Monday, Apr 6th at 6:00 PM in the loft area at the rear of the taproom at the Gilded Goat Brewery and Taproom, 3500 S. College Ave in Fort Collins. Come and join us for an evening of socialization, swapping fish stories from your summer and maybe even learning a new pattern.
“Pub and Dub” is a free event hosted by the Rocky Mountain Flycasters TU Chapter for members and friends to meet, have a beverage and tie flies. Marty Staab will designate a “Fly of the Month”, and the Chapter provides all tying materials (vises and tools as needed) along with video tying instructions on the big screen TV. Tyers of all abilities are welcome, and first time tyers will find themselves surrounded by others happy to assist.
Please RSVP to Marty (Pub-n-Dub@rmftu.org) before each session, and let him know if you need a loaner vise or tools.
Please thank and support our hosts at Gilded Goat Brewery and Taproom by purchasing a beverage.
This Months Pattern: Slump Buster
The Slump Buster is a typical John Barr pattern, straight forward to tie, no exotic materials or tying techniques, and very, very effective.
Instructions: Slump Buster Tips WEB.pdf
Video: Slump Buster - YouTube
NOCO Fishing Expo26
Event Features
Up to 30 Exhibitors: Exhibitors including Local Fly Shops, RMFTU's conservation and education programs, Local Watershed Coalitions, Area Conservation Groups, and more...
Vintage and Classic Rods and Reels
Fly Tying Demonstrations - over 20 well know expert tyers
Signature Fly Tyer Demonstrations in a small group setting; Pat Dorsey, Rick Takahashi, and Marty Staab
Expert Speakers - Including renown guide, Pat Dorsey, Jeramie Prine, Braker Bros
Drawings / Silent and Live Auctions for fly gear and trips
Lots of fun for kids - Tie a fly, Lawn Trout casting game, live stream bugs!
Casting demonstrations & Games
RMFTU-branded merchandize for sale
FREE Parking
