The Mayfly Project-Columbus, OH

04/27/2026

Our mentees learned how to tie knots, set the hook, fight and land a fish, and release it safely. We also took time for a mentor-led conversation about GRIT—what it means to keep trying, stay patient, and not give up when things get tough (on and off the water).

We finished the day fishing together and sharing tacos—because connection matters just as much as the skills.

We were honored to host a visitor from the , whose Conservation Club Grant is helping make this work possible. And thanks to Cabela’s for the hats!

This is how confidence grows—one skill, one moment, one cast at a time.

04/13/2026

Sunshine ✅ Sunglasses ✅
Casting practice ✅
Big smiles ✅

Our first outing of the season was everything we hoped for and more.

From learning the difference between spin casting and fly fishing to those first “aha!” moments with a fly rod—this crew is already off to an incredible start.

Our mentors stepped in, met their mentees, and began building something that lasts far beyond a single afternoon.

Four more outings to go… and we can’t wait to see what grows from here. 💚

04/01/2026

This really resonates. That “bubble” is something you can feel at every outing—the way the kids relax, connect, and just get to be themselves. It’s such a simple idea, but incredibly powerful. Proud to be part of TMP and the work we’re doing together. Our first outing is 10 days away. Can’t wait!

TMP has monthly training calls for our Lead Mentors, and our last topic was de-escalation with mental health professionals and TMP Lead Advisors, Kimberly Cordero and Marcy Becker. We love this quote because TMP outings truly are special events, where our number one goal is to come together as a community to hold out the world for a little while!

"TMP is there to create a bubble for the kids we mentor, where we hold out all of the pressures of the world, the triggers, the stress, and the labels we put on each other, and let them just be a kid for a bit!" --Marcy Becker

03/04/2026

Good news from Columbus… we’re FULL!

All of our mentee spots for the 2026 Mayfly Project season have been filled. That means another group of youth in foster care will spend this spring and early summer learning to fly fish, explore local waters, and build relationships with mentors who show up for them.

Thank you to everyone who supports this project. It truly takes a community to make this happen.

Now… let’s go fishing.

02/09/2026

We’re excited for the season to begin!!Registration opens at 7:00 am EST on 2/11/26.

02/07/2026

Our Mayfly Project mentors from Cincinnati and Columbus were representing at the Cincinnati Fly Fishing Show today!
Sharing stories, building community, and spreading the word about mentoring youth through fly fishing.
Changing lives, one cast at a time.

01/31/2026

Here’s a sampling of some of the donated raffle prizes. Thank you to all of our prize donors!! Can’t be there? Make a donation at https://www.purecharity.com/checkout/448177by February 4th and receive corresponding raffle entries.

01/28/2026

Central Ohio Foster Parents — this fills FAST.

On 2/11, registration opens for The Mayfly Project – Columbus.
A life-changing mentorship program for youth ages 8–18 who are in or have experienced foster care.

Limited spots.
Big impact.
Mentors. Water. Confidence. Belonging.

Registration opens 2/11
Closes 3/11 or until full

If you know a youth who could use time outdoors and someone in their corner—don’t wait. Spread the word now.

Changing lives, one cast at a time.

01/24/2026

BIG fundraiser coming up for The Mayfly Project – Columbus!

Lodging prizes include:
*2-night stay at Rifle River Lodge in Rose City, MI (thank you Sam & Kathleen Hanna!)
*2-night stay at any one of the Great Ohio Lodges in Ohio’s award-winning state parks

Plus lots of other great prizes!

Every dollar supports foster youth through fly fishing.

Can’t be there? You can still help give them wings. Donate by February 4th and get raffle entries.

01/24/2026