FLY FISHING MERIT BADGE
Master the Perfect Cast!
Discover the art of fly fishing at Allatoona Aquatics Base! Learn how to select equipment, tie essential knots, and develop the casting techniques that make fly fishing a rewarding outdoor pursuit.
From understanding aquatic insects and selecting artificial flies to practicing accurate casts, Scouts will explore the skills, patience, and conservation principles that make this sport unique.
Merit Badge: Fly Fishing
Location: Allatoona Aquatics Base
Focus: Fly casting, equipment, knot tying, and conservation
The Art and Skill of Fly Fishing
Fly fishing combines precision, patience, and an understanding of the natural world. Scouts will explore specialized equipment, learn how artificial flies imitate aquatic insects, and practice the casting techniques that distinguish fly fishing from other methods.
Instruction takes place along the shoreline at Allatoona Aquatics Base. Scouts will have opportunities to apply their skills, although catching a fish is never guaranteed. If fish are caught, participants may learn how to clean, cook, and optionally eat their catch.
Prepare Before Class
Scouts should read the Fly Fishing Merit Badge pamphlet and practice the required knots before attending. Be prepared to answer questions, discuss merit badge topics, and demonstrate knot-tying proficiency.
The merit badge counselor will email any additional prerequisites or discussion assignments approximately one week before class.
Fishing Equipment
Fishing equipment is available for Scouts who need it. Participants are welcome to bring their own fishing gear and bait. All equipment, including hooks and casting tools, must be handled safely and used according to counselor instructions.
Before You Arrive: Required Preparation & Safety
Proper preparation helps Scouts make the most of their Fly Fishing Merit Badge experience. Review the following requirements before arriving at Allatoona Aquatics Base.
Annual Health and Medical Record
Every Scout must bring a printed, completed, and parent- or guardian-signed Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Record (Parts A and B). Incomplete forms must be corrected before class begins, and Scouts cannot participate without the required documentation.
Download the Annual Health and Medical Record
Required Footwear
Closed-toed shoes are mandatory for Scouts, parents, and visitors at Allatoona Aquatics Base. Flip-flops, sandals, and Crocs are not permitted. Closed-toed water shoes are recommended for activities near the shoreline.
Swim Classification & Waterfront Safety
Fly Fishing Merit Badge instruction takes place from shore, and swimming or boating is not listed as part of the course. A Swimmer classification is not identified as a prerequisite on the existing course page.
Scouts must remain within designated fishing areas, follow the buddy system, and observe all waterfront safety instructions. Anyone participating in additional swimming or boating activities must meet the applicable swim classification requirements.
What to Bring
- Printed and signed Annual Health and Medical Record, Parts A and B
- Closed-toed shoes suitable for shoreline activities
- Refillable water bottle and sunscreen
- Packed lunch and snacks — food is not sold at the base
- Hat, sunglasses, and weather-appropriate clothing
- Fly-fishing equipment and bait, if preferred (equipment is available)
- Fly Fishing Merit Badge pamphlet and completed prerequisites
- Notebook and pencil for class discussions and observations
Check-In & Arrival
Check-in begins at 8:00 AM at the Main Pavilion. Please arrive on time with your required forms and supplies.
Allatoona Aquatics Base
200 Lovingood Drive
Woodstock, GA 30189
Observe the posted 12 MPH speed limit, follow camp staff directions, and remember that pets are not permitted.
Take Your Fishing Skills Further
Fly Fishing is one of three merit badges that count toward Scouting America's Complete Angler Recognition, which celebrates fishing skills, conservation knowledge, and service to others.
Earn the Complete Angler Recognition
Scouts who earn the Fishing, Fly Fishing, and Fish and Wildlife Management Merit Badges can pursue this additional recognition by completing at least one qualifying project.
Options include teaching fishing skills to fellow Scouts, helping Cub Scouts learn about fishing or fishery management, participating in a fishing tournament, or completing a conservation project benefiting a local fishery.
Registration & Important Policies
Advance registration is required, and class sizes are limited. Review the current schedule and registration instructions before selecting a class.
Class Changes & Cancellations
Under the published event policy, final payments and attendance numbers are due 10 days before the event. Substitutions and class changes are not permitted after this deadline.
Refund Policy
Cancellations made at least 12 days before the scheduled class qualify for a full refund. Cancellations within 11 days of the event are not guaranteed a refund and are subject to Council discretion.
All class changes, cancellations, and refund requests must be submitted by email. Requests cannot be accepted by telephone.
Email: aacaquaticsmbdays@gmail.com
Make Every Cast Count!
Develop precision, patience, and a deeper appreciation for the outdoors. Put your fly-fishing skills to the test and take the next step toward earning your merit badge at Allatoona Aquatics Base.
