Welcome to the Mountain Bridge Chapter #46 of Trout Unlimited (TU), the original South Carolina chapter founded in 1974 based in the Piedmont region of Greenville SC. Whether you are a seasoned angler or new to the sport, our chapter provides a vibrant space to grow your skills and contribute to critical conservation and environmental efforts.
Every river needs a Champion
Your Donations and Continued Support
Supporting the Mountain Bridge Chapter of Trout Unlimited (#46) directly protects cold-water resources and serves veterans, first responders, and local communities across South Carolina's Piedmont and Upstate regions. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, your tax-deductible donations directly fund critical conservation projects, veteran and first responder events, and youth education.
Conservation & Restoration Projects
The Mountain Bridge Chapter of Trout Unlimited (MBTU) is currently spearheading the most significant conservation project in its history: the Eastern Brook Trout Restoration Project in the Jocassee Wilderness. This massive multi-year effort, conducted in partnership with the SCDNR, aims to assess and restore native brook trout habitat across approximately eight miles of the Jocassee Gorges streams. MBTU has pledged $15,000 and 40 person-days of volunteer labor to this initiative, which is approximately halfway finished as of early 2025. We hosts regular Roadside Cleanups along a two-mile stretch of the Highway 11/276 right-of-way, specifically focusing on the area adjacent to the South Saluda River "Rock Vanes".
At Mountain Bridge Trout Unlimited, our mission is to protect and restore the cold-water fisheries we all love. We know that the freedom to enjoy our rivers and the safety of our communities are only possible because of the selfless dedication of others.
To the veterans and first responders in our Upstate community; thank you. We recognize the immense sacrifices you, and your families, have made. The time away from loved ones, the physical toll of your duties, and your unwavering commitment to our safety.
We are honored to count many of you among our members and friends, and we remain forever grateful for your service.
We have outreach programs, to include but not limited to, the MBTU Warriors Program that supports military veterans and first responders by providing therapeutic fly-fishing experiences. A pillar of the Mountain Bridge Chapter of Trout Unlimited (MBTU), this initiative served over 100 individuals in 2025 alone, offering them a supportive community and the non-clinical therapy of being on the water.
Outing & Social Events
Members are invited, via emails, to monthly fly fishing outings, social events, and more. We are currently planning:
MBTU Outings
Fly Tying Classes
Casting Clinics
Weekend & Beginner Outings
Trout in the Classroom
Trout in the Classroom (TIC) program, a major youth education initiative. MBTU provides funding and volunteers to install specialized cold-water aquariums in local schools, allowing students to raise trout from eggs to fingerlings. This hands-on STEM experience teaches children about water chemistry, life cycles, and the importance of healthy watersheds. The program culminates each spring when students release their trout into local streams like Carrick Creek at Table Rock State Park, fostering a lifelong conservation ethic and a concrete connection to their environment.
Partnerships & Sponsorship
Partnerships are the lifeblood of the Mountain Bridge Chapter of Trout Unlimited (MBTU), enabling large-scale conservation that would be impossible for a single organization to achieve alone. The chapter works closely with state and federal agencies, including the SCDNR and the US Forest Service, to fund and execute critical habitat restoration like the Eastern Brook Trout Restoration Project. MBTU also collaborates with land trusts such as Naturaland Trust and Upstate Forever to identify and permanently protect vital trout habitat property in the Upstate of South Carolina.
For local businesses and corporate entities, MBTU offers several ways to support cold-water conservation. Businesses can join as TU Business Members, gaining exposure in TROUT Magazine and on the national and local websites in exchange for their support. The chapter receives generous support from industry leaders and local shops. Many partners contribute gear, services, or professional expertise for fundraising events and hands-on restoration projects. Companies can support MBTU through matching gift programs, which often double the impact of individual employee donations.
Join the Mountain Bridge Chapter of Trout Unlimited (MBTU) and become a steward of the Upstate’s cold-water fisheries. Whether you’re looking to roll up your sleeves for field work or inspire the next generation, your involvement ensures that South Carolina’s native trout thrive for years to come.
Ways to Make an Impact:
On-the-Ground Conservation: Take part in critical restoration projects, such as the Eastern Brook Trout Restoration in the Jocassee Wilderness or stabilizing streambanks by planting native trees along the North Saluda River.
Education & Mentorship: Support the Trout in the Classroom program, helping local students raise and release trout while building a lasting conservation ethic.
Community & Healing: Volunteer with the Warriors Program, where fly fishing serves as a powerful tool for recovery and connection for over a hundred veterans each year.
Cleanups & Maintenance: Join our Adopt-A-Highway efforts along Highway 11/276 or participate in river clearing—like our current work on Emory Creek—to keep pollutants out of our waterways.
Featured Events
Events are the heartbeat of Mountain Bridge, blending hands-on stewardship, expert education, and pure fly-fishing fun.
From Monthly Chapter Meetings at the Greenville County Library featuring guest experts to our Road Side Cleanups along Highway 276, we offer meaningful ways to give back to the community and waters we love. We also host seasonal outings across the Upstate and support the South Carolina DNR to help you sharpen your skills and protect our cold-water resources.
Whether you're a seasoned guide or have never held a rod, we’re here to support your next adventure. You don’t fly fish? No problem! We have monthly conservation initiatives and volunteer opportunities where we’d love your support.
Join us!