Exploring psychosocial outcomes of fly-fishing retreats for cancer survivors: A qualitative study

Fly-fishing retreats are nature-based interventions delivered globally to support the wellbeing of cancer survivors. However, few studies have examined the impact of these programs. To address this gap, this study explores the experiences of women and men attending fly-fishing retreats and identifies the key outcomes experienced.

Attendees at eight fly-fishing retreats conducted in rural Victoria, Australia between 2022 and 2024, were invited to participate in semi-structured interviews. Interviews were conducted with 19 (8 women, 11 men) participants. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to develop themes inductively.

Four key themes were identified: 1) Cancer experience as motivation for attending. The burden of cancer was described as isolating and disruptive, providing context for the realised value of the retreat. 2) A restorative escape. Retreats were meaningful and provided opportunities for immersion in nature, mindfulness, reflection, learning, and a break from day-to-day. 3) Growth and empowerment. Participants connected through their shared experiences, enjoyed achieving new skills, and experienced social support and vulnerability. 4) Building connections, competence and joy going forward. Both the male and female retreats provided value through sustained social connections, skill acquisition, enhanced wellbeing, and perspective shifts.

Fly-fishing retreats are a promising nature-based intervention that may support the wellbeing of cancer survivors. While further research is needed to confirm our results, the retreats provided opportunities for physical activity, immersion in nature, skill building, and group activities that generated social connection, support and flow-like experiences which may contribute to improved wellbeing.