Why Our School?

It's no secret that there are dozens of fly fishing schools across the United States. One difference between other schools and is that our only mission is teaching. We are not affiliated with a major tackle manufacturer, a resort, or with outfitters who offer fly fishing schools as part of a larger business. Another difference is our Federation of Fly Fishers Certified Casting Instructors specifically focus on the skills and knowledge needed for fly fishing in saltwater. A unique series of progressive lectures, intensive casting clinics and fishing in several different saltwater settings, will provide you with a firm foundation to broaden your fly fishing options and enjoyment.

Most fly fishing schools are focused on stream fishing for trout. Freshwater fly fishing skills, albeit helpful, are not always applicable or sufficient in saltwater conditions. Wind, tides, fly selection, fish size and casting distancesand virtually compel one to use larger gear.

Saltwater schools are few or far between. One reason is because most people, even many avid freshwater fly fishers, do not associate fly fishing with saltwater! Those who fish saltwater use conventional tackle as they always have. Until, that is, they have had the thrill of reeling in a tarpon or even a ladyfish on a fly rod!

Many anglers believe the outlay for fishing gear, boats and a guide make the sport an expensive endeavor. Still others, tend to think there is too much to learn about fly fishing in saltwater.

None of these myths should stop you from expanding your fishing horizons. Many successful fly fishers do not have a eighteen foot flats boat or the financial means to hire guides on a regular basis. There are thousands of miles of beaches and backwaters available to you. For this reason much of our school is focused on fishing waters that can be easily reached by foot or by light watercraft.

uses a progressive teaching method starting from basic concepts of tackle design and progressing to more refined fishing techniques. With a student to instructor ratio of 3:1 while on the water, we provide individual attention for students of all skill levels. Our school lasts three full days.

A Course Overview

Day 1 . The first day of is focused on the basics from equipment to knot tying. Three casting clinics designed to help you accurately cast 75 feet are conducted throughout the day..

Day 2. The second day provides instruction on the the fishes' environment reading the water and fly selection. Prior to lunch students are video taped by the staff in order to review with the student their specific casting stroke. Conditions permitting, we then head to the flats for instruction on wade fishing and casting.

Day 3. The third and final day of the school begins prior to dawn with a focus on beach and inlet fishing. When the student has had all the fishing one can take, we finish with question and answer period over a late brunch.

Post School. The school provides a free casting session and if possible, fishing with an instructor if a student returns to the area. We are always available to answer any questions via our web site.

Individualized Courses

Individualized courses are available for the person having a specific interest or wishing to schedule a course suiting their schedule or location. Courses can be designed to accommodate students from one to thee days. Call or write for specific details.

Other Thoughts

Although the focus of Fly fishing Schools is on technique, we make every effort to capitalize on the prevalent species of fish during each school. The type and quality of fishing change with the seasons. In the summer, for example, fishing is best from very early dawn until an hour after daylight. During the cooler months fishing tends to be better as the water warms. In all cases, tidal flow, available forage fish and structure come into play.

There are also times, for example, when bluefish in the winter, and in the summer, snook and tarpon run close to the beach at sunrise and sunset. In these cases, we will adapt the class in order to learn under actual fishing conditions.

After the conclusion of the school we encourage you to stay over for some fishing on your own or for a guided trip. Our instructors are also independent, licensed guides and may be available for full or half day trips.

Catching fish is not the primary goal of Fly fishing Schools (We don't mark you down if you catch one during the school). Catching comes after learning to fish.