PENFIELD – Fly-fishing is popular among anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike and also an interest to many others who want to become involved with the sport. This coming year, they will all have the opportunity to learn about an important aspect of fly-fishing – tying flies.
A qualified local instructor will be on-hand to teach participants about the tools, the technical skills and the art needed to tie flies. Participants will have the opportunity to put the knowledge to practice, as they make several of their own flies each week.
Throughout the duration of the courses and as participants’ skill levels increase, many differing fly patterns will be presented to them. By the end of each course, participants should have a basic knowledge of fly-tying and the patterns tied.
Two courses will be offered this winter with the first being, “Introduction to Fly-tying,” that is to begin on Wednesday, Jan. 12 at 6 p.m. in the Environmental Education Classroom. The classroom is annexed to the Park Office; the course is recommended for those aged 16 and older.
Younger students may participate provided that they are able to follow detailed instructions. The course will run for seven weeks, two hours each, on Wednesday evenings until Feb. 23.
At least seven basic fly patterns will be taught to participants. Fly-tying tools and vises will be available for use from the park and materials will be provided. Participants with their own tools and materials are encouraged to bring them to become familiar with their use. The registration fee for Introduction to Fly-tying is $30.
The second course, “Intermediate Fly-tying,” will begin on Thursday, Feb. 10 at 6 p.m. in the Environmental Education Classroom. This course will also have a seven-week run on Thursdays until March 24.
Participants will learn at least seven different fly patterns; it is intended for participants 16 and older. Younger students who are participating in the Introduction to Fly-tying course may participate. Classes will run for two hours in length each week.
It is strongly recommended that participants in this course have at least a little fly-tying experience, and participation in the Introduction to Fly-tying course is sufficient.
Tools will be available at the park but bringing your own is preferred. However, participants will be provided only minimal materials and are strongly encouraged to bring some of their own. The registration fee for Intermediate Fly-tying is $30.
The class size for each course will be limited to a maximum of 12 participants, so early registration is strongly recommended. Registration and payment of the course fee is required prior to the start of each course.
Participants can register by calling Parker Dam State Park (814-765-0630), Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., or by emailing the park’s Environmental Education Specialist at cahuber@state.pa.us. Payment of the registration fee can be made by cash, check, credit card or by state park gift card.
Any person(s) with questions or comments about the courses or registration should feel free to contact the Environmental Education Specialist at Parker Dam State Park for more details.
Access for People with Disabilities
If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks:
888-PA-PARKS (voice)
717-558-2710 (local or international voice)
888-537-7294 (TTY)
717-558-2711 (local or international TTY)
711 (AT&T Relay Services)