A conservation-focused educational program aims to create a community of fly fishing guides dedicated to respecting the resource.
Fly fishing is booming, especially on the blue-ribbon rivers of Montana. The Fishing Outfitters Association of Montana — aptly abbreviated as FOAM — responded to this new growth with a certification program that will inform experienced guides on the principles of sustainable watershed and fisheries conservation.
Guiding for the Future
Guiding for the Future (G4F) is a continuing education program developed around four principles: knowledge, professionalism, ethics, and stewardship. The program is in its first year and comprises eight online modules that cover a swath of subjects, from entomology to fish ecology and increased professional skills. The guides will also attend a 3-day field practicum in Montana’s Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Finally, upon completion of the course, guides and outfitters will be credentialed with a G4F certification.
G4F aims to build on the experience that already exists on the water. Guides and outfitters need at least 3 years of experience in order to apply for the program.
Applications must be received by March 25, 2019. The online modules will open up on April 1, culminating in the 3-day practicum May 6-8.
