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Casting for Recovery - Iowa

We offer a powerful, nature-based alternative to traditional support—oncology-informed retreats held on the water, not in a waiting room. Through fly fishing, shared experience, and nature, we deliver healing that medicine alone can’t offer. Women need more than treatment—they need connection, community, and the chance to feel whole again.

2026 Iowa Retreat Dates

Apply to one retreat only that is in your state or geographically closest to you.

  • October 2–4, 2026

    Type: Any Stage / Any Age

    Apply by: July 23, 2026

    Location: Camp Ewalu Stone Retreat Center, Strawberry Point, IA

    Apply for October 2 Retreat

Program Coordinator & Contact

Make a Donation Submit a Volunteer Application

Why Fly Fishing?

At a Casting for Recovery retreat, the gentle motion of fly casting serves as physical therapy to those who have undergone radiation or surgery, while connecting with nature and others offers emotional healing and support. Described as life-changing, our unconventional retreats empower women in all stages of breast cancer treatment and recovery.

Retreat FAQs

Free

thanks to the support of volunteers, donors, national partners, and grants.

Any Age, Any Stage

in treatment or recovery from breast cancer.

2.5 Days

Retreats incorporate fly fishing instruction, wellness and emotional support, ending with a half day of guided catch-and-release fly fishing.

100% would Recommend

Casting for Recovery to other women.

Retreat Results

Casting for Recovery provides an opportunity for women whose lives have been profoundly affected by breast cancer to gather in a natural setting with other women in similar circumstances.

Post-retreat evaluations show that after attending a Casting for Recovery breast cancer retreat:

100%

felt inspired to do more activities at home.

99%

improved their support base.

94%

learned something new about living with breast cancer.