West Bend Wisconsin Project

I loved fishing with my mentor.
I can’t wait to go again!

Mentee

The Mayfly Project

Project Location

West Bend, Wisconsin

 

Year Project Founded

2001

Project Lead Mentor

Pat Michaelson

 

Mentors on this team

7

Children mentored to date

17

 

Children mentored in 2025

8

Local foster care partners

Currently searching for local foster care connections and programs.

Local companies that support this project

Currently searching for local partners and community support!

Apply to Mentor

For more questions about this project,
contact Pat Michaelson at:
pnmichaelson@gmail.com

Support the West Bend Project

“I am so excited to share my passion for fly fishing, fly tying and conservation with youth, with the hope that the kids I mentor can learn and grow in fishing and in life
Pat Michaelson, Lead Mentor

West Bend, Wisconsin Project

Project Mentors

Patrick Michaelson, Lead Mentor
I have been fishing since I was 5 years old, starting out with cane poles off the dock at our cabin, and started fly fishing over 20 years ago in the Driftless Region of Wisconsin. I also have fly fished for smallmouth bass, saltwater fish and panfish, and taught my son to fly fish as well. When not fishing, I spend time with my kids, my wife of 25 years and work as a Sales rep for an adhesive additives company.
Zach Clemons, Mentor
Growing up in Central Illinois, Zach grew up fishing with his mom and dad catching bluegills on strip mines. After moving to Wisconsin his dad taught him how to fly fish on Green Lake catching smallies, white bass, northern and panfish. He’s since bought a 3wt rod and has been fishing the Driftless area for the past 5 years. He’s looking forward to getting involved with the Mayfly project!
Drew Hafenbreadl, Mentor
Born and raised in Southern Wisconsin, Drew spent most of his time outside as a kid. Whether it was fishing for pan fish and bass or climbing trees in his backyard, any time he had he spent it exploring. At 16 Drew moved to northern Idaho and kept up with his habits of being outside. He learned how to fly fish in his later teen years and went up to his ears in the new sport. Moving back to Wisconsin, and living in Milwaukee, he explores new rivers, lakes, and creeks all over his state! Nowhere is out of reach for him. He enjoys spreading his love of the outdoors, music, and all things fishing. Drew is excited for his time ahead of him in The Mayfly Project!