Hartford, Connecticut Project

I have loved to fish since I was a young kid and when I was 13 my parents gave me my first fly rod. I didn’t know how to use it so I put on a worm and caught beautiful native brook trout up in Maine. I quickly switched to flies and have been fly fishing ever since. I am still fascinated by catching fish – any type. My favorite species of fish to catch is the one I haven’t caught yet. Whether fishing for bluegills, stripers, or a new species I am totally engrossed. Helping new anglers have this experience and watching them eventually catch fish on a fly is a thrill! The Mayfly Project is a wonderful organization where this happens and I’m happy to be a part of it.

Although new to fly fishing, Ally is excited to be able to combine clinical expertise with her love of the outdoors. A adolescent trauma therapist based in Springfield MA, Ally brings a unique understanding to the power of nature and its ability to create a calm, grounding environment where kids can explore their emotions, build coping skills, and develop a greater sense of self. When taking space from her day to day routine, Ally enjoys spending time with her dog Lincoln in her cozy home of Wethersfield CT that she shares with her partner Max.

I started fishing in small streams at the age of 9 years old with worms. In grade school I joined a fly tying club and was introduced to fly fishing. I’ve fished for most of my life off and on and really enjoy teaching new fishermen/fisherwomen. I love the outdoors every way possible… fishing, hunting, or just plain hiking. Lets all get out there and have some fun!

35 year old part time guide/ construction worker. Been fly fishing since I was 5, fly fishing has been a vital role in my life from the memory’s with my grandfather to finding inner peace in the stream. I hope to share my love of the sport and hope other can find the peace I do on the river!

Having grown up in a small town along the banks of the Connecticut River, Tim spent many days fishing with friends. A career working outdoors throughout the state led to an appreciation for all the quiet spots along the Farmington River and Long Island Sound. While raising three children he had the good fortune of being involved in coaching youth sports. As a mentor with the Mayfly Project, Tim looks forward to the opportunity to help young people find confidence and passion in the great outdoors.

My Dad took me fishing when I was a kid. Those were always good days being together – and catching a fish was always a thrill! Now, I fly fish with my husband and the same good feelings return to me. I love being outdoors and being with young people and look forward to sharing these simple and special moments.

I grew up in central CT and would spend lots of time exploring the outdoors with my parents and brother. My father, who is an avid fly fisherman, would bring me spin fishing from a very young age. He has taught me the basics of fly fishing and appreciation for all things outdoors. I’m honored to be part of The Mayfly Project and believe in the importance of connecting with nature.

I was introduced to fishing as a child by my dad, and I’ve been “hooked” ever since. While I’m relatively new to fly fishing, I’ve quickly developed a deep appreciation for every aspect of the sport.
Born and raised in Connecticut, I’ve been fortunate to explore the region’s beautiful local streams and rivers. My work has also given me the chance to fish in some incredible locations, including the mangroves of Florida—an experience I’ll never forget! Now, I’m excited to share my passion with kids. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of catching that first fish, and I look forward to helping others experience that same joy.

I started fishing in college, but I was introduced to fly fishing in 2023 when I inherited a split-cane fly rod from my grandfather. Eager to learn how to use it, I purchased a fly combo and started practicing. Fly fishing quickly became an obsession for me, and now I exclusively fly fish for all species. My favorite to target are stripers in the Rhode Island salt ponds and trout in local streams and the Farmington River. I’m passionate about teaching others how to fish, and I look forward to sharing this passion with the next generation of fly anglers.