Our Work
Programs &
Initiatives
From stream conservation to youth education, our programs are the backbone of our mission to protect coldwater fisheries for future generations.
Stream Conservation
Our conservation program is the heart of PPTU. We work directly on stream restoration projects, remove invasive species, plant riparian buffers, and advocate for policies that protect coldwater fisheries. Each year we stock thousands of trout and monitor stream health across our watersheds. Contact mail@pptu.org for more information or to get involved.
Trout in the Classroom
Trout in the Classroom (TIC) is one of our most impactful programs. Students in over 100 schools raise trout from eggs to fingerlings, learning about water chemistry, aquatic ecosystems, and environmental stewardship. Each spring, students release their trout into local streams, creating a lasting connection to conservation. Contact mail@pptu.org to get involved.
Mentor Program
Our volunteer mentors share decades of fly fishing experience with newcomers. Whether you're just starting out or want to refine your technique, our mentors provide one-on-one guidance on casting, fly selection, reading water, and stream etiquette. It's the fastest way to become a confident angler. Contact mail@pptu.org for more information and to get connected to a mentor.
Fly Tying Workshops
Our fly tying workshops bring together tyers of all skill levels. Learn to create the flies that catch fish in our local waters, from woolly buggers to CDC emergers. Materials are provided for beginners, and experienced tyers share their techniques and favorite patterns. Contact mail@pptu.org for more information.
Stream Stocking
PPTU regularly stocks trout in the Patuxent River Special Area and the Catch & Release Flies Only section below Brighton Dam. We work closely with Maryland DNR to ensure healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout for anglers to enjoy, while also monitoring the health of native brook trout populations. Each year in the spring and the fall, the Maryland DNR stocks rainbows and brown trout in many streams and ponds throughout the state. Our chapter assists with the stocking of the Upper Patuxent, the fly fishing only section below Brighton Dam, and the delay harvest section of the Middle Patuxent. If you are interested in assisting with these activities, please contact Jay Sheppard at jaymsheppard95@gmail.com. For up-to-date stocking information throughout the state, go to the Maryland DNR website.