About the FFF
Organizational Information:
The Federation of Fly Fishers (FFF) is a 501(c)3 non-profit who has been a leader in advocating for fly fishing in North America since 1965. We are a membership organization dedicated to conserving, restoring, and educating through fly fishing. For over 44 years, our efforts have produced improved anglers and better resources from coast to coast.
The organization conducts business through more than 200 local fly fishing clubs and 15 regional councils. Together these groups have more than 30,000 members in addition to some 13,000 direct FFF members. These members are dedicated volunteers who teach fly fishing, fly casting, fly tying, and undertake conservation projects in their communities and consists of individuals, clubs, large and small fly fishing tackle dealers, manufacturers, guide services, and many businesses that support fly fishing. All of the work of the FFF begins and ends with fly fishing, making us the only organization advocating for fly fishing specifically.
Our Work:
Based on our mission of Conserving, Restoring, and Educating Through Fly Fishing, the FFF:
- Expands public awareness of important aquatic issues through grassroots action
- Instills a sense of responsibility and ethic of conservation in youth by introducing them to outdoor recreation
- Protects threatened waters for the benefit of future generations
- Improves individual’s fly fishing skills and knowledge
- Protects the history and tradition of the centuries old sport
- Enhances the ability of fly fishing educators and professionals to teach the sport and its ethics
Some of organizational accomplishments include:
- Pioneering the concept of catch and release and promoting catch and release internationally
- Certified Casting Instructor Program – developing the highest quality casting instructors, better fishing guides, and a more enjoyable fishing experience for everyone.
- Developing programs that utilize fly fishing as a form of therapy such as Project Healing Waters which engages wounded military veterans in the sport.
- Youth education – the FFF is a recognized leader in youth fly fishing education and utilizes a holistic program covering topics from stream ecology and safety to casting instruction and tying and fishing ethics.
- Clean Angling – the FFF proudly advocates for clean angling and educates the general public about the spread of aquatic invasive species.
- Community service – the FFF’s affiliated fly fishing clubs and members are constantly involved in civic activities that benefit their community. Our clubs offer free youth education programs, engage seniors in fly casting and tying lessons, and work to enhance fishable waters for everyone.
About the Fly Fishing Fair
The event serves two purposes. First and foremost, the event is designed to be a major educational opportunity for anyone interested in Fly Fishing. Equally important – the event is our largest fundraiser of the year. All proceeds from the show provide the annual funding base for our operations and help support our education and fly-fishing related conservation efforts nationally. This year the event will be held August 24-28 in West Yellowstone, Montana.