About
Joey's Fly Fishing Foundation
Our Mission
Joey's Fly Fishing Foundation mentors students of all ages by developing confidence, patience and respect through the art of fly fishing.
Our Volunteers
We have dedicated mentors and volunteers that have a passion for students, teaching, fishing and building confidence, patience and respect. All of our volunteers have been selected, interviewed, screened and background checked and many have been through our program.
We Believe
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In quality over quantity, reaching out to students on an individual basis
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In providing students opportunity to enjoy the outdoors through fly fishing with qualified mentors, which allows them to build self-confidence that carries over into their everyday lives
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In teaching the art of craftsmanship through custom rod building and fly tying
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In educating about conservation and our part as “stewards,” or caretakers of the land and water
Joey Puettman
Joey’s Fly Fishing Foundation has a humble history. Joey Puettman, as a former elementary school paraprofessional, junior high wrestling coach and, eventually, a skill trainer in the WrapAround program at Northern Wyoming Mental Health, he consistently demonstrated a unique ability to form therapeutic relationships with students.
Joey’s was founded in 2007 in a small studio space in historic downtown Sheridan. Using equipment from garage sales and supportive donors, Joey began designing programs that incorporated a comprehensive education in fly fishing with a focus on improving students’ emotional and social outcomes.
Joey’s experience as a fly fishing guide has taken him around the world, but he is happiest when he can share his passion and pass along his knowledge of fishing with students. The first generation of Joeys’ students are adults now. Many of them keep in contact with Joey and return when they can to mentor new generations of students.
Learn about our volunteers and what it takes to become one.
Come build a rod, tie a fly, enjoy a summer camp. Find your passion at JFF.