Clinic Hopes to Reel in Women Fly Anglers

Fly fishing is one of the fastest growing outdoor sports in the Unites States, probably due to the quality of the outdoor experience and a desire to escape from our hectic lifestyles. One does not need be an expert to appreciate the beautiful sight and sounds, the crystal clear water, and the calming peace of being outdoors. Even as the numbers of female fly anglers grow, many women are tempted to give it a try but keep their distance because fly fishing seems intimidating and inaccessible. After all, most fly anglers are male, and fly fishing looks difficult. While the sport can be challenging at times - it's not rocket science. Anyone can learn to tie knots, pick and flip a fly, and how to slip into waders. Especially if you know an experienced fly angler you can trust for accurate and friendly advice. An upcoming Women's Fly Fishing Clinic, sponsored by Kelly Creek Flycasters, National Wild Turkey Federation's Women in the Outdoors Program and Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) offers just what some women have been looking for. Designed to introduce the beginning female fly angler to basic casting techniques, equipment use, knot tying and fly selection, the clinic's overall goal is to provide an overview of the sport as it relates to women. "It's a ladies-eye-view on everything from selecting a fly rod and flies, to the fit and feel of your new waders," said Jill Green, a Fish and Game volunteer helping coordinate the event. "For women looking to get into fly-fishing, this clinic will make the introduction to the sport a memorable and enjoyable one." The clinic includes two evening presentations from 6-9 p.m. on August 30 and September 6 in Lewiston. Then on September 9 and 10, the women are invited to an overnight campout and two days of personalized fishing instruction on a north Idaho river. "You'll be hooked after spending a lot of one-on-one fishing-time with an experienced fly angler," Green said. The registration cost is $40 for adults and $20 for young women 12 to 17 years old. Fly rods and reels will be provided to those who do not own equipment, but all participants must bring all other camping gear, meals and waders. A free Dutch-oven dinner will be provided Saturday evening. "The women will learn a lot, and they'll laugh a lot," said Green. "The atmosphere will be relaxed and the women will be able to ask questions without feeling intimidated or viewed as lacking knowledge." More importantly, the clinic will provide the foundation for women to become outdoor leaders and to develop a network of women with similar interests. "Some women are just more comfortable, or would prefer taking a fly fishing class with other women who are also learning about the sport," she said. "It's just nice to be able to relax and enjoy something with other women who share a similar interest." Register by August 25 by contacting Jill Green in the evenings at (208) 798-0215. For technical angling-related questions, call Zack Funkhouser at 743-0435. Registration forms are also available at Fish and Game's Clearwater Region Office, 3316 16th Street in Lewiston. Space is limited and registration is first-come-first-serve. A participating parent or guardian must accompany young women who register. Participants will receive a one-year membership to the National Wild Turkey Federal, the quarterly magazine from the Women in Outdoors Program. Wade aside men - more women are likely to be hip deep in your favorite river in the future.