By William B. Belk, MSc, FP-C
Director of Simulation and Innovative Education, Air Methods Corporation
As experienced emergency medical services providers, we’ve all witnessed and responded to scenes that can take a lasting emotional and mental toll. From extrication nightmares to futile resuscitation efforts, the cumulative stress of dealing with human trauma and tragedy on a regular basis predisposes us to burnout, compassion fatigue, PTSD and other mental health challenges.
In the air medical transport realm, where crews routinely encounter some of the most critical patient scenarios, this occupational strain can be particularly severe. In 2023, Air Methods, an air ambulance provider, launched an innovative program called AirAnglers aimed at equipping its flight crews with mindfulness skills and therapeutic outlets through the practice of fly fishing.
“Fly fishing requires intense presence of mind, deep focus, slowed respiration, and connection with nature – the perfect antidote for the hypervigilance and constant stimulation faced by air medical crews and those who support them,” explains AirAnglers Instructor and Flight Nurse Doug Kinney. “It encourages conscious control of thought patterns and emotions in a way that’s incredibly restorative.”
AirAnglers provides a comprehensive introduction to various facets of fly fishing, starting with fly tying. Participants learn the focused handiwork of meticulously wrapping thread, fur, feathers and other materials around a tiny hook to craft traditional fly patterns. This intricate process demands complete absorption in the present moment, naturally quieting the mind and silencing inner dialogue.
Next, participants carefully build their own custom fly rod from a graphite blank, attaching components like cork grips, reel seats, and delicate snake guides with precision. Any mistake in rod construction could impact functionality, so intentionality and patience are required. Crafting the finished product helps instill a sense of pride, appreciation and ownership over their new instrument.
Once the rods are complete, crews head to serene river environments and learn fundamental fly-casting techniques. The aim is to use weighted fly line to accurately deliver a nearly weightless fly to precise targets, creating a natural drift reminiscent of insects. As participants work to improve their form, they must intently observe water behavior and currents, focusing awareness to read what the river is telling them. In this flow state, trivial concerns fade while consciousness hones in on the present pursuit.
To complement the mental engagement of fly fishing, AirAnglers includes introductory yoga instruction through a partnership with Yoga for First Responders. The practice of physical postures and breathing techniques further develops mindfulness and attentional control. Building strength, balance and flexibility also improves casting proficiency. Together, fly fishing and yoga offer an immersive mind-body experience that readily transfers to meaningful stress management in the field and everyday life.
AirAnglers currently hosts multi-day fly fishing retreats near their corporate headquarters in Denver, Colorado, with participants gathering in scenic settings near world-class trout streams such as Rocky Mountain National Park or the world-famous Blue River near Silverthorne, Colorado. These fly-fishing trips provide an opportunity for participants to spend time with their instructors and hone the skills they’ve learned throughout the program. For many, the chance to decompress with colleagues facing similar challenges is invaluable.
“AirAnglers gives you that rare opportunity to completely escape the present stressors, let go mentally and physically, and reconnect with yourself in a way that’s simply not possible in our daily jobs and lives,” described Matt Wolfe, an Air Methods Flight Paramedic “I left feeling more grounded and rejuvenated than I have in years.”
While quantitative results will be at least a year away, early anecdotal evidence and participant feedback suggests AirAnglers is an effective intervention for managing stress, reducing burnout, and improving employee retention. Air Methods believes investing in mindfulness training through programs like this is worthwhile to promote healthier crews and better patient care.
As EMS providers at the tip of the spear, we face some of the most acute psychological challenges in healthcare. Innovative approaches like AirAnglers demonstrate how cultivating mindfulness through outlets like fly fishing can be a powerful way to process trauma, manage stress, and regain equilibrium. In an industry with high rates of turnover and burnout, interventions like this have the potential to be transformative.
