Cincinnati, Ohio Project
“10 out of 10. Do it!”
Mentee, 2025
Cincinnati, Ohio Project
Project Location
Cincinnati, Ohio
Year Project Founded
2020
Project Lead Mentor
Aaron Booth
Project Co-Lead Mentor
Kurt Bause
Mentors on this team
12
Children mentored to date
51
Children to be mentored in 2027
10
Local foster care partners
In past seasons, we have partnered with organizations throughout the foster care community to connect youth with the Mayfly Project. We are actively seeking new connections and opportunities to reach more foster youth. If you or your organization would like to learn more about partnering with us, please contact our Lead Mentor.
Local companies that support this project
Thank you to our local donors, including Little Miami Brewing Company and the Cincinnati Rotary Club, for supporting the Mayfly Project. We continue to seek local companies and community partners to help support our work with foster youth.
Apply to Mentor
For more questions about this project,
contact Aaron Booth at:
themayflyproject.cincinnati@gmail.com
Support the Cincinnati, Ohio Project
“I’ve been a mentor with The Mayfly Project since the Cincinnati project began, and over the years these kids have taught me far more than I ever expected. I’ve learned how much they need positive examples, new experiences, and the healing that comes from simply being outside. Their curiosity and courage remind me why The Mayfly Project matters so much. Each season reaffirms the impact mentorship and time in nature can have on their lives.”
Aaron Booth, Lead Mentor
Cincinnati, Ohio Project
Project Mentors
Aaron Booth, Lead Mentor
I’ve been connected to fly fishing for four generations, dating back to my great-grandfather. Through different seasons and changes in life, my passion for the sport has come and gone, but I’ve always found my way back to it.
For me, fly fishing has become a source of peace, connection, and relief, leading to a deeper interest in its therapeutic benefits.
For the past six years, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring with the Cincinnati Mayfly Project, where I’ve seen firsthand how fly fishing can help foster youth build confidence, connection, and a sense of accomplishment. I have two adult children and am a new grandfather, and I enjoy sharing my love of fly fishing with others.
Kurt Bause, Co-Lead Mentor
I grew up on the Little Miami River in Ohio and fell in love with fishing local waters. About 30 years ago, I discovered fly fishing, and it has been a passion ever since. I’ll fish for just about anything, but trout are my favorite mostly because they live in some of the most beautiful places on earth. I love the journey, exploring new rivers, and discovering new water.
I’m a dad of three daughters, whom I coached in a variety of sports. Those were some of the happiest and most rewarding years of my life. When I discovered The Mayfly Project at a local fly show, I knew I had found a way to combine my passion for coaching, mentoring and fly fishing. I can’t wait for next year’s Project to begin.
Kyle Carter, Mentor
Kyle grew up fishing with his father and grandfathers in the lakes and rivers of Northern New Jersey, as well as off the coast of the Jersey Shore. Those early days on the water helped shape his appreciation for nature, patience, and the value of shared time outdoors. After relocating to Cincinnati in 2014, Kyle quickly fell in love with fishing the local rivers for smallmouth bass. Fly fishing has become an important part of his life, offering time to slow down, reflect, and reconnect. Kyle is passionate about mentorship and giving back. He volunteers with Disabled American Veterans through their Patriot Boot Camp program and also supports his local high school’s entrepreneurship program.
Rob Westaway, Mentor
