Tie. Cast. Hook. Smile.

Words by John Caldwell 

 

Get Better At Fly Fishing with These Programs

 

As the fall season is in full swing, there’s no better time to get an introduction to the beautiful art of angling. Fly-fishing is a lifelong skill and sport that can be learned at any age by nearly anyone. And receiving the expertise and guidance from true professionals that live and breath angling day in and day out is why you’ll want to check out these intros to fly fishing that are happening now at some of the leading guide shops in the Mountain West.

Lessons for All Abilities + Orvis Fly Fishing Schools

Since 1980, Jans Mountain Outfitters has been the premier outdoor guide shop in the Park City, UT area with a staff of longtime industry experts. Offering fly fishing lessons for anglers of all ability levels is their bread and butter. Whether you need to learn how to tie good knots, perfect your casting, or want to be shown the best waters, the guides at Jans have you covered. And don’t fret if you don’t have the gear because rental gear is included with each lesson. Aside from excellent private fishing lessons, Jans is also affiliated with Orvis Fly Fishing Schools who will expand your knowledge on equipment, technique, safety and ethics. If you’re looking to simply learn casting, every Monday evening (through Labor Day) show up for your free casting lesson at the lower ponds in lower Deer Valley. Learn more here

Introduction to Fly Fishing + Everything Else

The Jackson, WY area is a world-renowned fly-fishing destination and the folks at Teton Village Sports and Grand Fishing Adventures want to share everything they have to offer beginning with an excellent clinic that teaches the basics every Thursday in August. Attendees will learn the sport’s history, how to tie flies and tippet, and casting techniques. As an added bonus, all participants will be given 20% off retail purchases at the Teton Village Sports shop in Teton Village. Aside from this introductory clinic, TVS and GFA offer regular guided wading and drift boat fishing trips, fly-casting lessons, horse pack trips, customized trips, and group seminars. Learn more here

Fly Fishing 101 + 201

Silver Creek in the Sun Valley area of southern Idaho is known around the world as one of the finest bodies of water for fly-fishing. And with the Wood River, Salmon River, and countless others, the options for exceptional angling are endless in these parts. Since 1963, Silver Creek Outfitters has been at the forefront of all-things angling with superlative gear and first-rate knowledge of local and regional waters. Their introduction to fly fishing class is ideal for the beginner with a full day of learning about knots, fly tackle, trout behavior, reading water, aquatic insects, fly selection, and casting. A lunch and all necessary equipment are provided. If you’re ready to take it to the next level of moving water, try the Flying Fishing 201 class, which takes participants on the Big Wood River. This class teaches upstream and downstream fly presentations, line handling, and slack line casts and mends. And if you just want to focus on becoming a great caster, try a free casting clinic Tuesday or Saturday evening at the Sun Valley Resort. Learn more here