Fly fishing lures on driftwood retreat banner

An Altar retreat is about more than catching fish—it’s about catching your breath. Your retreat is an opportunity to step back from life’s currents and through rest, reflection, and time on the water, you will find clarity and renewed direction for your soul, your life, and your leadership.

You’re in for something unforgettable!

As we approach your retreat date you will receive email reminders and details, but in the meantime, everything you need to prepare for your Altar adventure is noted below.

SOUL OF A MAN RETREAT | FATC

May 18-22, 2026 | Driftless Region of Minnesota

Location

CEDAR VALLEY RESORT
905 Bench Street
Whalen, MN 55949

As you make your travel arrangements, please plan to arrive between 3:30-5:00 pm on Monday.

The retreat will conclude on Friday morning and everyone should be able to be on the road by 9:00 am following breakfast and our final gathering.

Travel Plans

Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the lodge. Please make travel plans that best fit your needs.

- You may arrive at the lodge between 3:30-5:00 pm on Monday.

- We will be ready for departure following breakfast on Friday approx. 9:00 am.

If you would like to coordinate travel plans/ground transportation with others on the retreat please reach out to us at info@AltarFlyFishing.org and we would be happy to share contact information with you.

Fishing License

Your trip requires a Minnesota fishing license. Purchase your license online in advance of your trip. We recommend taking a photo of your fishing license with your phone for access on the water.

On their site, click the START HERE button. Complete information requested, then select the Non-Resident 72-hour Individual Angler option inputting start date of May 19 at 7:00 am through May 22 at 7:00 am (NO Walleye Stamp needed).

PURCHASE LICENSE

Retreat Waivers

Please take just a few minutes to complete the required waivers for your 2026 retreat.

2026 RETREAT WAIVERS

Pay My Balance

If you paid in full for your retreat at the time of registration, thank you, you are all set.

If you paid your deposit at the time of registration, please follow the link below to pay your balance due no later than 30 days before your retreat.

All food, lodging, guiding fees and tips are included in your retreat fee.

PAY MY BALANCE DUE

Need Gear?

Special Fishing Gear Discount. Risen Fly Shop will be your personal gear concierge and you will receive a 15% discount storewide if you are looking to purchase fishing gear before or after your retreat. Risen is a full-service fly shop located in Pennsylvania (not an online store). Just call and ask for Ryan and say you are with Altar.
ryan@RisenFly.com
(724) 888-2762
www.RisenFly.com

NOTE: Gear is not required for your retreat. If you do not have gear of your own, Altar will equip you for your fly fishing experience including waders, boots, fly rods & reels as needed.

PACKING LIST

We hope you find this packing list a helpful tool in preparing for your trip. While it is not a complete list of everything you might bring, it includes the key items needed for a successful adventure.

Open suitcase and assorted hiking travel gear

FISHING GEAR

CLOTHING

ACCESSORIES

OTHER

Have more questions? Contact the Altar Staff at info@AltarFlyFishing.org

RETREAT DETAILS: 2026 Soul of a Man | FATC