A day of fly fishing featuring students with Down Syndrome

If you fly fish you know that it takes a great deal of concentration, focus and perseverance to deliver a fly to a target. You also know the feeling of accomplishment after that well delivered fly was annihilated by a fish. I want to create that sensation one student at a time.

In 2007, Trista Patison and I created this event for a project while attending California State University, Chico. In 14 weeks we assembled an army of volunteers, sponsors, trained student aids, and of course, the students. We worked with Loma Vista school in Chico and had 13 students attend.

This program was such a success that it was repeated in spring of 2008! I presented this project to the Chico State recreation students and it was immediately picked up. I supervised the students as they hosted more than 20 students with Downs Syndrome as they explored the benefits of fly fishing while having fun. This year we had more sponsors and even received air time on the local news.

Thanks to our sponsors, without Chico Area Fly Fishers, Certified Systems, Celestino’s Pizza and Glazed Creations this program would not be possible.

Thank you to everyone who made this possible, I hope to see everyone for DownStream Fly Fishing 2009!

Why Down Syndrome? I have a younger brother Mark, who has Down Syndrome.

Teaching students fly tying, casting, rod building and entomology.

Chowin’ Down

Even though growing up with Mark was different and sometimes difficult; I can appreciate what he has given our family through who he is. Over the years he has created a united family, strong parents and a patient brother.

Currently a compilation of short stories are being assembled that shed light on two parents raising two unique boys... one with Down Syndrome and the other a crazed fisherman. Look for those stories here in 2009.

DownStream 2007 and 2008

Current Sponsors

Download 2009 Information Flyer

Friday, April 24, 2009 marked the date for the 3rd annual DownStream Fly Fishing event. Without hesitation, I will say that it was a HUGE success and a ton of fun for all. A big thanks to Sac-Sierra Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Certified Systems, Willow Creek Event Facilities, Propel, Northern Waters Fly Fishing, Sam's Club and ALL who helped out. I also want to thank the local fly fishing clubs for coming through with some of the best volunteers in our short history. Granite Bay, EC Powell, Davis Fly Fishers, and CFFU volunteers were patient, hand-on and engaged each student.

This year was the biggest and best event we have done so far. There were 19 students with Down Syndrome and 55 volunteers.

Another big thanks to all the students, aids, teachers and parents who came out to spend with day wit us.

Lunch was one of the many highlights- thanks to Charlie Gonzales we ate very well. He served up grilled burgers, hot dogs, chicken and to compliment the main course he put out his home made potato salad and a beautiful spread of fruit. The site of the food alone was a work of art!

The event took place on a private ranch just outside Marysville and conveniently had a pond loaded with hungry Rainbow Trout! I am happy to say that EVERY student landed a fish, some even landed 5 or 6.

In summary, this year's event was incredible. I personally saw EVERY SINGLE student with a ear to ear grin throughout most of the day and in many instances I saw volunteers and students laughing at each other while trying to land fish.

Thanks again to EVERYONE who contributed to this event, I will see you next year for DownStream 2010!

2009