Good Things Happen When You Try
Building Confidence on the Water
Confidence on the water doesn’t usually show up all at once. It builds over time—through small moments, small decisions, and simply choosing to go, even when you’re unsure. Most women don’t start out feeling confident. They start by trying, learning, and figuring things out as they go.
It’s easy to feel like you don’t know enough, don’t belong, or aren’t doing things “right.” But confidence in fishing doesn’t come from having all the answers—it comes from spending time on the water, making mistakes, and realizing you can handle more than you thought. Every time you go, you build familiarity. And familiarity turns into confidence.
You don’t need to feel ready to start. You just need to be willing—to try, to learn, and to keep showing up. Whether you go with a friend, a group, or on your own, each experience adds to your understanding and your comfort. Over time, what once felt uncertain begins to feel natural.
Confidence isn’t something you wait for—it’s something that develops as you participate. And the more you stay with it, the more it grows.
A great way to gain confidence-building skills is by joining a women’s angling group. Being around others who are learning, asking questions, and sharing their experiences creates a more supportive environment to grow in. These groups often provide opportunities to learn skills, gain practical knowledge, and spend time on the water without the pressure of having everything figured out. Over time, that shared experience not only builds confidence, but also creates connections that make it easier to keep showing up.
Practical Tips
Keep Listening to Mayfly Rising!
Through conversation and shared experience, Mayfly Rising explores how women build confidence on the water—whether through joining supportive fishing groups, learning essential health and safety skills, or developing their abilities over time. By bringing these topics forward, the podcast highlights practical ways women can grow more comfortable, capable, and independent in the sport.
Join a Women’s Fishing Group
Start by finding a community where you can learn alongside others. Groups like Fly Fishers International Women Connect, Trout Unlimited women’s initiatives, and local clubs across the country offer events, mentorship, and a supportive environment to build skills and confidence.
Learn Health & Safety in the Outdoors
Confidence often comes from preparation. Programs like Becoming an Outdoors Woman (state-based), the Women’s Fishing Federation, and state fish & wildlife agencies offer hands-on education in outdoor safety, skills, and independence. These programs focus on practical knowledge so women feel more confident and prepared on the water.
Use Skill-Building Resources
Take advantage of both local and online learning.
Fly fishing: Trout Unlimited chapters, FFI Women Connect, and local fly shops offer clinics and instruction
Conventional fishing: Ladies Let’s Go Fishing resources, Take Me Fishing (RBFF), and state agencies provide education and beginner programs
Online: YouTube tutorials and guided instruction can help reinforce skills between trips
Resources
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A centralized directory of women’s fishing groups, guides, and businesses across the country.
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A national network offering events, education, and a supportive environment for women to build skills and confidence.
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Many Trout Unlimited chapters across the country, offer women-specific clinics, trips, and networking opportunities.
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Women's Fishing Federation, a non-profit organization created, especially for women who love to fish or who are interested in learning. Provides education, camaraderie, and support to women anglers everywhere from all skill levels.
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Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW) is a national program offering hands-on workshops that help women build outdoor skills, safety knowledge, and confidence on the water.
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his is one of the largest national programs introducing women to fishing, offering: hands-on education, mentorship, networking, beginner → advanced training.
