Frequently Asked Questions

Our youth clinics are open to kids ages 8–18. We’ve designed the curriculum to be engaging across that whole range — younger kids get foundational skills in a low-pressure setting, while older teens get more advanced technique instruction. We don’t turn anyone away based on age if they’re close to the range; reach out and we’ll figure it out.

Zero experience required — and honestly, kids with no experience often pick it up faster because they don’t have any bad habits to unlearn. We start from scratch: how to hold the rod, how to cast, how to tie a knot. If your kid has never touched a fishing rod, that’s perfect.

We provide everything: rods, reels, bait, tackle, and instruction materials. You bring your kid in closed-toed shoes (no sandals near the water), a hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a snack. That’s it. We’ve got the rest.

We operate on a "no kid turned away for cost" policy. Some clinics are fully free, others have a small participation fee depending on location and programming costs. Financial assistance is always available — and it’s handled quietly. Nobody has to explain their situation to get help. Reach out to info@teachahumantofish.com if cost is a concern.

Absolutely — our youth clinics are open to all kids regardless of gender. The outdoors belongs to everyone. We work to make our clinics welcoming and inclusive for every young person who wants to be there.

Parents are welcome to stay and watch. Some do, some drop off — both are fine. All of our instructors and volunteers have passed background checks. If you stay, we’d love to have you; there’s often a moment where a parent ends up with a rod in their hand too.

Yes — we love group bookings. Scouts, youth groups, school programs, church groups, and recreational leagues are all welcome to book dedicated clinic days. Contact us at info@teachahumantofish.com to talk through options and scheduling.

We operate at accessible public fisheries across the Wasatch Front — stocked community ponds, river access points, and Utah DWR partner locations. Specific sites are shared when you register for a clinic. We prioritize locations that are easy to get to and appropriate for beginners.

It’s a guided half-day fishing outing for men, typically 8–12 people, on premium Utah water. The format is simple: you show up, you fish, you talk with the men next to you. Phones stay in the truck. Every outing is governed by The Code — five principles around presence, honesty, brotherhood, stewardship, and showing up again. It’s not a retreat, not therapy, not a conference. It’s a morning on the river with an intention behind it.

No. We have experienced anglers in every group and instruction is available for anyone who wants it. Some of the best conversations happen while someone’s learning to cast for the first time. The fishing is the vehicle, not the destination.

Yes — The Code applies to everyone who attends a Men’s Experience outing. It’s not a long list of rules. It’s five short principles: Be present. Be honest. Show up for the person next to you. Leave it better than you found it. Come back. Read the full version at the-code page before you come. It should take less than five minutes and you probably agree with most of it already.

Yes — private and corporate group bookings are available year-round. Groups larger than 12 are split into multiple guided outings. See our group booking page for details. Corporate bookings are partially tax-deductible and directly fund free youth programming.

Dress in layers — Utah mornings can be cold even in summer. Closed-toed shoes are required. We recommend pants you don’t mind getting wet. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Waders are available if you want to get in the water, but not required. We provide all rods, reels, tackle, and bait. Leave your phone in the truck per The Code.

Yes on both counts. Teach a Human to Fish is incorporated in Utah and recognized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization under the Internal Revenue Code. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. We provide donation receipts via email. Our EIN is pending IRS determination and will be posted on the About page and donation confirmation emails once issued.

100% of donated funds go directly to programming — gear, guides, permits, transportation, and anything else that puts a rod in someone’s hand. Administrative costs are covered through sponsorship revenue and in-kind support. We publish annual impact reports so you can see exactly what your dollars funded.

No. Some of our most valuable volunteers have never fished a day in their lives — they show up, help with logistics, assist kids with gear, and make the day run smoothly. If you do have fishing experience, great. If you don’t, we’ll find you a role where you add real value. Fill out the volunteer interest form and we’ll figure out the right fit.

Many employers match charitable donations dollar-for-dollar. Check with your HR department — we’ll provide any documentation needed, including our EIN and 501(c)(3) determination letter. A matched gift doubles the impact with no extra cost to you.

Adults 12 and older need a valid Utah fishing license to fish on most public waters. Youth under 12 can fish for free. Licenses are available online at wildlife.utah.gov or at most sporting goods stores. A one-day license is available if you just want to try it. We cover license requirements in every youth clinic so kids know exactly what they need to fish on their own.

Primarily yes — especially on wild trout waters. We teach proper catch-and-release technique in every clinic and outing: wet hands, quick handling, proper release. On some stocked community fisheries, keeping fish within legal limits is permitted. We follow all Utah DWR regulations and teach participants to do the same.

Utah has incredible variety. Our programs most commonly target brown trout, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout on river and stream fisheries. Community ponds often hold bass, bluegill, and catfish — great for kids learning the basics. The Utah DWR also manages exciting fisheries for carp, pike, and walleye. Utah has water worth fishing year-round once you know where to look.