Conservation, Education and Community Support
Clark-Skamania Flyfishers (CSF) is a non-profit membership based organization focused on protecting wild fish and habitats in the Pacific Northwest. We collaborate with local and national groups, offer grants, and provide public classes to promote conservation and flyfishing, fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship. The following are some of the many projects we have funded and supported.
Salmon Creek
Salmon Creek is a vital waterway flowing from the forests near Mount St. Helens into the Cowlitz River and eventually the Pacific Ocean. It serves as a crucial habitat for coho, steelhead, and cutthroat fish. The Cascade Forest Conservancy has identified restoration methods to enhance floodplain use, improve water quality, and create better habitats for migrating fish. Between 2025 and 2026, 30 to 40 habitat structures will be constructed in key areas, involving staff, volunteers, and contractors. The project is budgeted at $60,000, with funding from the Pacific Lamprey Foundation and Clark-Skamania Flyfishers.
White Salmon River Steelhead
In 2011, the Condit Dam was removed after obstructing fish migration for 98 years. This led to the return of Steelhead and Coho Salmon to their ancestral spawning grounds. To monitor fish populations and their responses to environmental changes, such as the dam's removal, surveys are essential. However, government agencies like WDFW often lack sufficient resources for these surveys, necessitating support from non-profits. Organizations like the Native Fish Society and Trout Unlimited, along with volunteers, collaborate with WDFW on these efforts, which began in 2020. Clark-Skamania Flyfishers contributed $6000 for the 2024 surveys and offered volunteer assistance.
Reel Recovery – Fly Fishing and Cancer
Reel Recovery started in 2003 by a group of fly fishers who were inspired by a friend fighting brain cancer. They saw how fly-fishing helped their friend and wanted to help other men with cancer. The organization combines fly fishing lessons with supportive conversations, giving men a chance to share their experiences, learn a new skill, make friends, and find hope while dealing with cancer. A participant said, "This Retreat was more than just fishing; it changed my life." Clark-Skamania Flyfishers donated $3000 to Reel Recovery for 2024.
Northwest Youth Conservation and Fly Fishing Academy
The NW Youth and Conservation Academy aims to offer a 7-day course for students aged 12 to 16, focusing on how to care for cold water fisheries. Students will learn through fly fishing. The program's goal is to help students gain the skills to protect our water resources. Now in its 23rd year, the Academy has many success stories of students making a positive impact in conservation. Clark-Skamania Flyfishers donated $2000 for the 2024 year.
Lower Columbia River Fish Enhancement
The Lower Columbia River Fish Enhancement Program collaborates with WDFW to return Coho Salmon carcasses to rivers and streams. This initiative requires significant effort, with volunteers needed for 6 to 10 days each winter to assist in processing and returning the carcasses to the water. Clark-Skamania Flyfishers are crucial to this work. Although the significance of this process was previously overlooked, these carcasses are vital for maintaining river nutrients. As they decompose, they nourish aquatic life and support young salmon and steelhead, while land animals also benefit by spreading nutrients to surrounding areas.
“Fly-fishing isn’t just about catching fish. It’s about the cast, the drift, the connection with the water, and the respect for the life that thrives beneath the surface.” – Unknown