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Retreats
The research is abundantly clear: spending time in nature, developing healthy hobbies, and surrounding ourselves with supportive people all have positive effects on our mental health. Fishing the Good Fight retreats allows participants to do all of these things in one weekend!
Registering for a retreat is simple:
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Choose the retreat you want to attend (listed below)
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Secure your spot by putting down a non-refundable deposit
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Fill out the Retreat Registration Form (sent to your inbox after we receive your deposit)
April 12-14, 2024
Salida, CO
(Arkansas River)
Fee: $1,000
We will be fishing the Arkansas River on private land. Trout Unlimited has named the Arkansas River as one of the top 100 trout streams within the United States. The clear river waters, coupled with stunning mountain views, create an ideal environment for both beginners and seasoned anglers alike.
We will be staying at the Blue Coyote Ranch just 10 minutes outside of beautiful Salida, CO. Participants will have a private room and access to shared bathrooms.
May 17-19, 2024
lake george, CO
(South Platte River-Abell Ranch)
Fee: $1,000
The Abell River Ranch is considered by many to be the best private access to the famous South Platte River. Very accessible and wade-friendly, this property is an excellent choice for anglers of all ability levels.
We will be staying at a house outside of Florissant, CO roughly 20 minutes from where we will be fishing. Participants will be asked to share a room with other participants and have access to shared bathrooms.
July 19-21
Lake George, CO
(South Platte River-Abell Ranch)
Fee: $1,000
We are back at the Abell River Ranch and fishing the South Platte River.
We will be staying at a house outside of Florissant, CO roughly 20 minutes from where we will be fishing. Participants will be asked to share a room with other participants and have access to shared bathrooms.
August 23-25
Carbondale, CO
(Roaring Fork River)
Fee: $1,200
For those looking for the premier lodging and fishing experience, this retreat is for you! In partnership with Rarewaters, we will be fishing private water from Diamond Arrow Ranch. This is a beautiful ranch with access to over 1 mile of the world-famous Roaring Fork River. Fly fishing doesn’t get much better than this.
We will be staying at the historic Redstone Inn in gorgeous Redstone, CO. Participants will have their own private room and bathroom.
September 13-15
Lake George, CO
(South Platte River-Abell Ranch)
Fee: $1,000
We are back at the Abell River Ranch and fishing the South Platte River.
We will be staying at a house outside of Florissant, CO roughly 20 minutes from where we will be fishing. Participants will be asked to share a room with other participants and have access to shared bathrooms.
"The retreat was a great experience. Walking away knowing that it’s ok to not be perfect. No matter the situation, no matter the severity, no matter the pride or ego that holds people back from being vulnerable, this group is genuinely committed to helping men understand themselves better, understanding that there are options and solutions, there are ways to address things. This is a great way to kick-start growth and a healthy lifestyle, no matter your situation."
-Dave
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Why attend a retreat?
Retreats are attended by men looking to meet other men who are interested in improving their mental health. Participants experience the therapeutic benefits of fly fishing and have the opportunity to personally grow during group and one-on-one wellness sessions. A licensed therapist attends the entire retreat and leads these sessions.
In addition to the opportunity to grow personally, our retreats are epic fly fishing adventures! We fish some of Colorado’s most pristine streams often on private land. We provide expert anglers to teach and assist the beginning and experienced fisherman alike. Fishing experience is NOT required.
What you will learn:
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Fly fishing skills like; approaching the water, presentation, different styles of fly fishing, and fly tying.
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General skills for new anglers like netting a fish, setting up your rod, tying on flies, etc.
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Advanced skills for seasoned anglers like in-depth entomology, advanced fly patterns, mastering technical water.
what you will take home:
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Recognizing symptoms and warning signs of mental illnesses,
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How to better cope with symptoms.
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Skills and techniques for having hard conversations with someone you're concerned about.
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A renewed appreciation for the healing power of nature.
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New friends and a great support system.
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A better understanding of mindfulness and relationships.
A sample retreat day
Friday
Opening Session: Introductions and getting to know everyone
First Group Session with therapist
Saturday
Head to the river for the Second Group Session with therapist
Fishing time with your assigned instructor
Fly fishing instructional seminar followed by more time on the water
Final Group Session of the day
Sunday
Final Group Session of the weekend with therapist
Fishing time
Fly fishing instructional seminar
Closing Session
New to fly fising? Never been to therapy? Not great at talking about your feelings? FTGF has created experiences made just for you. Let us teach you to cast and help you talk about your emotions. Each retreat is led by mental health professionals along with seasoned anglers who are sure to help you land that bow.
