Summer Fishtrap Gathering

The whole setting was incredibly supportive, freeing, encouraging, and gorgeous. You’ve crafted a stunningly open creative space, which brightened my thinking, launched so many ideas, and provided a nudge to keep writing. Thank you! 

The Summer Fishtrap Gathering of Writers is held annually at Wallowa Lake at the edge of the Eagle Cap Wilderness Area. Each year, authors and instructors come to Wallowa County from around the country to provide intensive instruction and inspiration to a small group of writers. The conference features weeklong workshops in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, memoir, essay, and special workshops just for youth.  Classes are limited to 13 students, giving each writer the chance to share their work in an intimate and supportive environment.

In addition to morning writing workshops, writers have the opportunity to attend daily craft talks, panel discussions, and read at open mic sessions. Each evening, everyone gathers under the big tent to hear readings from Summer Fishtrap faculty — the best writers in the West.

What makes Summer Fishtrap unique among writing conferences is the emphasis on the creative process. The week is about generating new work, taking risks, and learning from the instructors and writers that surround you. The remote location and stunning scenery of Wallowa County provide inspiration which, for so many, makes Summer Fishtrap a life-changing experience.