Certified Angler Instructor Course 2025

Tomahawk Scout Camp | May 30 – June 1, 2025
Join us for a dynamic and immersive training weekend at Tomahawk Scout Camp, designed to equip participants with the skills and certification to serve as a BSA Certified Angling Instructor (CAI). This nationally recognized training course is ideal for adult leaders, older Scouts (age 15+), and camp staff who are passionate about fishing and eager to bring high-quality angling experiences to Scouts.
Over the course of the weekend, participants will receive in-depth instruction in:
- Fly fishing and spinning rod techniques
- Fly and bait casting skills
- Aquatic ecology and conservation ethics
- Knot tying, tackle setup, and equipment maintenance
- Fly tying with hands-on practice
- Effective teaching strategies for youth
- Requirements and instruction for the Fishing and Fly Fishing merit badges
- Program ideas for units, day camps, summer camps, and High Adventure
- You'll leave with practical skills, official CAI certification, and ideas to bring fishing alive in your unit or council.
The course will begin on Friday evening at 7pm, May 30, with orientation and gear prep, and continue through Sunday afternoon, June 1. Participants will fish on-site, engage in classroom and outdoor learning sessions, and collaborate with instructors who are passionate about youth education through the outdoors. There will be opportunities to fish during this program. Camp will have some boats in the water to fish and explore the lake(s).
Lodging + Meal Package Options:
- $50 – Includes all meals and a campsite (bring your own tent and gear)
- $100 – Includes meals and a bed in an indoor bunkhouse
- $200 – Includes meals and a shared cabin with one other participant
All meals from Saturday breakfast through Sunday lunch are provided. Fishing gear and fly tying materials will be supplied, but participants are encouraged to bring their own rods and tools if they have them. Some loaner equipment will be available.
Who should attend:
Scout leaders, merit badge counselors, camp staff, and older youth (15+) who want to strengthen their fishing knowledge, improve their teaching techniques, and help lead impactful outdoor experiences. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a CAI patch and certificate