LEARN TO FLY FISH - 2026 - Petawawa, ON

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in the E-ON Learn to Fly Fish Event to be held in the Petawawa and Pembroke area, on 23-24 July is now open. The application deadline is 2 July 2026.

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT: 
Have you ever wanted to learn the intricate art of Fly Fishing?  Soldier On, Eastern Ontario Region will host a Learn to Fly Fish event in Petawawa.  This event will include two days of Basic Fly Fishing Lessons with an opportunity to test your new skills each day in a different fishing location. All skills will be taught by the Algonquin Fly Fishing Premium Guide Service.  Equipment for teaching is provided. The instructional sessions with Algonquin Fly Fishing includes a guide/instructor dedicated to the group, the use of a variety of fly rods and flies needed for the day, and a learning progression that starts with the basics of casting on dry land and then progresses to presenting flies on the water

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 10.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from the E-ON region  within a reasonable driving distance of Petawawa who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Selected Serving members will require the approval of their Chain of Command to participate. 

DRAFT SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

23-24 July
• 0845 Welcome
• 0900 Intro to Fly Fishing /Issue of Equipment
• 0915 Lessons/Fishing Start
• 1200 Lunch
• 1300 Lessons/Fishing Continues
• 1600 Fly Fishing  Ends

TRANSPORTATION & MEALS:
Participants are advised that transportation and meals will not be provided by Soldier On for this event. Participants will be required to arrange their own travel to and from the event location. 

Mental & Physical Requirements:
Applicants must be able to tolerate 7 hours of moderate activities for 2 consecutive days. Due to the busy activity schedule, applicants must have a limited requirement for rest throughout the day. 

Applicants will be required to walk on uneven ground, and enter into the water, also on uneven riverbeds. Repetitive casting will be required.

Applicants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment.