Fly-Fishing and the Trail to Eagle
Fly-Fishing is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Fly-Fishing Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 6 main requirements for Fly-Fishing. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Do the following:
- a.Explain the hazards you may encounter while fly-fishing and how to deal with each one.
- b.Discuss the importance of wearing an approved personal flotation device while fly-fishing.
- 2
Demonstrate how to match rod, reel, line, and leader and how to rig and unrig a fly-fishing outfit.
- 3
Demonstrate how to tie at least two types of flies.
- 4
Demonstrate how to cast a fly line using proper technique.
- 5
Go on at least one fly-fishing trip. Catch at least one fish or make at least two full hours of casting effort.
- 6
Find out about three career opportunities connected with fly-fishing.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Fly-Fishing Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Fly-Fishing, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Fly-Fishing is usually earned summer camp or outdoor event. Summer camp and merit badge weekends are the most common places to finish it.
3. Budget the time
Expect about 2 weeks for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 8 Fly-Fishing requirements for you.
Fly-Fishing Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Fly-Fishing merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Fly-Fishing is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Fly-Fishing merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Fly-Fishing in about 2 weeks, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Fly-Fishing merit badge?
Fly-Fishing is most often earned summer camp or outdoor event. Any registered merit badge counselor for Fly-Fishing can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Fly-Fishing merit badge have?
Fly-Fishing has 6 main requirements with 2 sub-requirements, for 8 items in total.
