AFI Massachusetts Cast & Blast Dual Skills Camp - Northwestern, MA

Event Start Date: 4/26/2026 4:00 PM

Event End Date: 4/28/2026 12:00 PM

Massachusetts AFI is Hosting a Cast & Blast Dual Skills Camp in Northwestern Massachusetts!

Why You Should Want to Attend:

The Armed Forces Initiative of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers focused on building conservationists within the military community through immersive, hands-on outdoor experiences. Join Massachusetts AFI, alongside BHA New England, for a unique Cast & Blast Dual Skills Camp that blends spring turkey hunting with fly fishing in the hills of Western Massachusetts.

This multi-day camp is designed to introduce participants to two classic outdoor traditions while deepening their understanding of how hunting, angling, and conservation work together to support wildlife and public lands. It also serves as a leadership development opportunity—bringing together veterans and service members interested in becoming more involved with AFI and BHA’s mission across New England and New York.

What It Is:

The Cast & Blast Dual Skills Camp is a mentored, learn-to-hunt-and-fish experience combining field skills, conservation education, and community building. Mornings will focus on spring turkey hunting, while afternoons shift to fly fishing instruction on local waters. Evenings feature conservation classes and group discussions led by AFI leaders and partners.

Attendees can expect to:

• Learn turkey biology, behavior, calling techniques, and ethical harvest practices

• Hunt spring gobblers with experienced mentors on public and accessible lands

• Learn the basics of fly fishing, including casting techniques and reading water

• Participate in conservation workshops covering public lands, wildlife management, and the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation

• Learn field processing techniques and cooking fundamentals for wild game

• Build camaraderie within the military community and conservation network

This camp is designed to develop confident outdoorsmen and women while reinforcing stewardship as a core value.

When Is It:

Sunday, April 26 – Tuesday, April 28, 2026
Sunday 4:00 PM – Tuesday 12:00 PM EST

Where Is It:

Northwestern Massachusetts
(Exact meeting locations and camp accommodations will be provided to selected participants prior to the event.)

Who Can Attend:

• Open to all members of the military community — Active Duty, Reserves, National Guard, Veterans, and Gold Star Families

• Participation is limited to 7 attendees to allow for close mentorship

• An AFI participant application is required following RSVP

You do not need to be a BHA member to attend (but we’d love to have you join!).

Additional Details:

• Lodging provided in a shared camp-style accommodation (Airbnb)

• Decoys, calls, and some fishing gear will be provided

• Participants will receive a packing list after selection

• Meals coordinated by AFI leadership and volunteers

• Expect variable spring weather and early mornings in the field

Sample Camp Flow:

• Day 1: Arrival, safety brief, gear allocation, turkey calling clinic, mentor pairing

• Day 2: Morning hunt, afternoon fly fishing instruction, evening conservation classes

• Day 3: Final hunt, camp wrap-up, departures

Questions?

Contact Michael Mazaik, Massachusetts AFI Liaison, afieast@backcountryhunters.org