I was invited to participate in a fly fishing experience on the Snake River designed for American Indian youth from the Wind River Reservation.

The Indian tribes on this Eastern Wyoming reservation are primarily Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapahoe. These young people have access to tribal and public park land, yet little exposure to career opportunities in the outdoor recreational field. 

This event was organized as a learning experience through the Indigenous Youth Voices program. As a board member of The Friends of the Teton River and certified casting instructor, I was asked to help with an introduction to fly fishing. Also, I recruited Fly Fishers International casting board member Bruce Williams, and my son Nicholas who guides (Gulf Coast Fly Fishing School) for redfish in his free time. 

We had about ten young participants to teach the basics of fly fishing, including outfitting the fly rod, and casting. The students were polite, well mannered, and enthusiastic  to learn and experience fly fishing. Most, if not all, the students had never held a fly rod. 

Fishing from a rocky bank of the Snake River I taught two young ladies the pick-up and lay down cast. This portion of the Snake River has a very fast current and we discussed the importance of a drag free drift. 

It was a great experience for all involved. 

Doc Frangos
September 2025
Victor, ID