Connecting Youth to their Roots with Fly Fishing

Powell is a charming and picturesque town in Wyoming’s northwest corner. Nestled amid the Big Horn Basin and surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, it is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. One of Powell’s most cherished outdoor activities is fly fishing. This passion extends to Powell Middle School, where Coach Oram dedicates time after school to teaching kids the art of fly fishing. The club aims to introduce young people (6th to 8th graders) to the joys of fly fishing and foster a love of the outdoors.

The Powell Middle School Fly Fishing Club, established through the efforts of Fay Ranches broker JW Robinson, has become a beacon of community engagement. JW’s lifelong experience on Rocky Mountain lands has fueled his dedication to preserving the Western way of life, promoting wildlife habitats, and protecting these cherished lands.

“I chose the Powell Fishing Club as an FRCF project for several reasons. First, many kids leave rural America and never come back. I believe something as simple as experiencing a brook trout on the end of a fly rod in middle school will keep them active and involved in our rural town as adult leaders for years to come. Second, I appreciate Coach Oram for investing time in our local youth. Finally, I love the leadership model the program provides to middle school students. The older students are assisting the younger students in the learning process. This teaches them to be leaders and give back to others. I am excited to see how these young fishermen will lead our community in the future.” – JW Robinson, Fay Ranches Broker.

With the unwavering support of JW Robinson and fellow broker Neil Bangs, the club has secured essential equipment for fly fishing, including materials for students to make their own rods and flies. These donations have been instrumental in allowing the club to continue growing and offering students more opportunities to learn and develop their skills.
The Fay Ranches Community Foundation (FRCF), driven by its mission to support local communities and foster a love for the outdoors and conservation, wholeheartedly embraced this exceptional project.

The club teaches students about the various types of fish found in local streams and rivers and emphasizes the importance of conservation. This initiative provides an excellent way for kids to connect with nature and learn valuable skills, all thanks to the dedication and vision of JW Robinson, whose commitment to preserving the Western way of life continues to inspire and lead the community.

Connect with JW Robinson | (307) 899-5403 | jrobinson@fayranches.com
Learn more about Fay Rural Community Foundation