During each Casting for Recovery fly fishing retreat, there is a moment that naturally replicates itself. Sometimes it’s during a shared laugh, sometimes after a fish is landed, sometimes it happens while listening to the sound of the river. But each time, a woman who arrived carrying the weight of a breast cancer diagnosis sets it down, at least for a little while.
That moment is what the 2026 Mother’s Day Giving Challenge is built around.
For the third Mother’s Day in a row, Trout Unlimited Costa 5 Rivers college fly fishing clubs are competing in a nationwide fundraising challenge. The campaign runs through May 11, with college clubs across the country competing on a live leaderboard to raise the most funds before Mother’s Day.
This year, every dollar donated is doing double duty.
Seventy percent of every gift goes directly to Casting for Recovery, the nonprofit that provides free, oncology-informed fly fishing wellness retreats to women battling breast cancer. These retreats aren’t just a weekend on the water; they’re a lifeline. Women in treatment and recovery come together, learn to fly fish and find community.
The other 30 percent goes somewhere new. This year, 5 Rivers clubs are directing a portion of funds toward microgrants for young women in their own collegiate network. The goal is to help them access gear, attend leadership events and participate in conservation experiences that might otherwise be out of reach.
“Watching the clubs rally around this cause is one of the most inspiring moments of the year,” said Cliff Watson, TU youth fly fishing programs manager.
“It’s not just about fundraising. It’s about young people using their passion for fly fishing to make a real difference in the lives of women battling breast cancer. That kind of impact sticks.”
Whether you’re a longtime TU supporter, an alumnus of a 5 Rivers club or someone who just believes in the healing power of time on the water, there’s a team to support and a reason to give.
How to give:
- Visit the campaign page: 2026 Mother’s Day Giving Challenge – TU Costa 5 Rivers | Trout Unlimited
- Select your favorite 5 Rivers club in the dropdown menu.
Make a gift in honor of a woman who inspires you.