Fishing

Men affected by cancer can find support with Idaho fly-fishing group. Here’s how

Richard Seltzer of Caldwell reels in a fish as he learns how to fly fish on Oct. 9, 2021, in the Boise River during a day retreat with Idaho2Fly, a nonprofit that helps men with cancer connect with one another through fly fishing. The group is looking for more applicants for its retreats.
Richard Seltzer of Caldwell reels in a fish as he learns how to fly fish on Oct. 9, 2021, in the Boise River during a day retreat with Idaho2Fly, a nonprofit that helps men with cancer connect with one another through fly fishing. The group is looking for more applicants for its retreats. smiller@idahostatesman.com

Every year, thousands of Idaho men are diagnosed with cancer. And local nonprofit organization Idaho2Fly is determined to help these men overcome their disease through fishing, education and fellowship.

Idaho2Fly hosts various annual programs and retreats using fly-fishing to bring men with cancer and those who are in remission together, where they can be supported and improve their outlook on life. Idaho2Fly is currently accepting applications for its annual summer and fall fly-fishing retreats, set for July, August and October 2022. These three-day, all-expenses-paid trips help cancer patients escape their routine and experience the healing powers of fishing while discovering they are not alone in their journey.

To apply for an Idaho2Fly retreat, visit www.idaho2fly.org, or call (208) 462-0402.

Idaho2Fly will also hold its annual derby fundraiser on June 4. The derby is held on a private lake near Eagle Island, and having participated myself a few years ago, I can tell you — it’s hard to beat the fishing for monster rainbow trout and big largemouth bass. All proceeds go to support Idaho2Fly’s retreats and programs, and the derby is limited to 50 participants. Registration is available online. Tight lines!

Jordan Rodriguez has been fishing Idaho waters since he was a teen. Share your fish stories, adventures and questions with him at tightlinesboise@gmail.com, or visit www.tightlines208.com for the latest local fishing reports and upcoming class offerings.

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