TO TAKE OR NOT TO TAKE A LESSON?

• Have you reached a point where you would like to try something new?

• Do you want to give fly fishing a try and don't know where to start?

• Are you concerned that you will spend a lot of money and not like it?

• Are you confused by the array of equipment and the retail jargon?

Many newcomers make the mistake of trying to teach themselves.

“How hard could can it be - I’ve been fishing for years” is a comment that is regularly made.

Often, an enthusiastic self-teaching beginning rapidly diminishes into complete frustration as newcomers endeavour to come to grips with the art of fly casting. This leads to the fly rod being relegated to a secluded garage corner where it gathers dust. Another aspect is that once “bad casting habits” become ingrained they are harder to correct.

At the other end of the scale are those who are frightened off by the aura of exclusiveness and mystery that has tended to surround fly fishing. Perhaps this can be attributed to the abundant literature - something with that much written about it must be complicated.

The introductory courses are designed to demystify and simplify all the jargon and provide a learning experience that is rewarding and fun. It is not a complicated process - as long as you know and understand the basics anyone can enjoy the fulfillment of being able to cast and catch fish on fly.

• You'll learn what to look for when buying equipment and so avoid wasting money on gear that's unsuitable or unnecessary for the type of fishing you wish to do.

• You'll discover new enjoyment and a sense of achievement.

• And the best part - you'll avoid a lot of frustration. By learning the correct basics, you'll be out there catching fish on fly. You'll be amazed at how easy it is.

The skills improvement fishing courses will improve your casting techniques and expand your fishing opportunities. You'll be surprised how your success rate and enjoyment will increase.

This following quote from Joan Wulff’s book ”Fly Casting Techniques” written 1987 sums up the reason for improving your casting.

“Here is one final thought on the importance of being good at fly casting. There are two areas of expertise that are deemed most important to fishing success, and fly fishers often argue about which is more important. The first is knowing where the fish lie [reading the water] and the second is being able to present the fly (presentation/ casting). My thought is if you don’t know where the fish lie but can cast well enough to cover all of the water with finesse, you are likely to solve the mystery and catch fish. If you know where the fish lie but can neither reach them or in some way present the fly to them, you are not even in the game.”

WHY USE A CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR?

The program was commenced in 1992 for the purpose of bettering the standard of instruction in fly casting. Administration of the program is undertaken by the Board of Governors for the FFF. This volunteer group includes some of the most well known and respected names in the sport and includes such notables as Doug Swisher, Lou Tabory, Joan Wulff, Al Kyte, Steve Rajeff, Mel Krieger and Gary Borger to name a few.

To fulfill the goals laid down, all FFF Certified Instructors have undergone comprehensive training and testing to ensure that they meet a high standard of knowledge, casting skills and teaching ability.

Want to learn more about the FFF - visit www.fedflyfishers.org

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN TO YOU?

For the beginner, a FFF Certified Instructor is trained to provide the highest quality learning experience that is enjoyable and fun. You will be taught the necessary skills so that you can confidently commence the great sport of fly fishing.

For those who wish to improve on their existing casting skills, a FFF Instructor is qualified to coach in all skills to take your casting to the next level to further enhance your enjoyment of the sport.