The EYFA was established in 1985 to provide competitive fly fishing for young people at International and, from 1998, World level. Managed by a committee of volunteers the Association is a member of the Confederation of English Flyfishers, a member of the Salmon & Trout Association, and an associate member of the Anglers Conservation Association.

Tom Bilson of Engalnd and Moc Morgan OBE of Wales were the joint founders of the Youth Flyfishing movement in 1985. Over the following years Scotland and Ireland selected Youth teans to participate in an annual International Match between the four countries.