Fly-fishing is an endless pursuit. Whether it’s specialized casts, better knots, bizarre fly patterns, or reading waters in an unknown land, there’s always something new to learn. If you’re looking to deepen your knowledge, strengthen your skills, or try a new facet of the sport, City Fly has a class for you!
Introduction to Fly Fishing
Our most popular private lesson, Introduction to Fly Fishing will cover everything you need to know to begin fly fishing. We cover the equipment, knots, casting techniques, how to select flies, and stream tactics. This course is perfect for anyone brand new or up to a season or two under their belt.
3 hours • Central Park or Prospect Park • 1 to 2 people
Private Casting Lessons
Casting and presentation may be more important than anything else. We offer specialized casting clinics depending on what you need. Want to optimize your current cast? We can do that. Need to learn how to cast that massive spey rod for your upcoming saltwater trip? We can do that too. Your buddies laughed at you because you couldn’t roll cast? We’ll make you the best damn roll caster this side of the Mississippi.
1 hour • Central Park or Prospect Park • 1 to 2 people
Introduction to Fly Tying
Fly tying is an art—an art you can pick up quickly and hone over a lifetime. Brian Sheppard, our Pro Tyer, is certified Bronze by Fly Fishers International and also ties for Willowemoc Creek and Squimpish Flies. This two-hour private lesson is the best way to get started in fly tying with one of the best tyers in the Northeast.
1 hour • TBD • 1 to 2 people
“The casting clinic was absolute magic. Brian looked at my cast, repositioned my elbow, and now I can lay the fly down exactly where I want it.”
City Fly offers group classes throughout the month covering a wide variety of fly fishing skills. Join us for a class and meet fellow fly fishers too!
Group classes will open in April when the weather is warmer!
Introduction to Fly Tying
Want to learn how fly tying works but not ready to dive in all the way? This is the class for you. Learn about the origins of fly tying, the basic principles, and how to tie some common patterns. We’ll enjoy an evening of camaraderie and cold ones on the Upper West Side.
2 hours • $75 • TBD • 8 people
Tying Guide Flies
In this class we will cover simple, fast, and effective flies for trout. This includes: dries, nymphs, streamers, and even the confidence patterns needed to get set up for a season of success (and maybe even a few surprises along the way). All material will be provided and any extra stock will be sent home with you to practice with!
Please note: You must have some fly tying abilities under your belt. This is NOT the class for learning Fly Tying. But we do have that too!
4 hours • $150 • TBD • 10 guides
Reading Trout Streams
In this four hour class, we’ll learn how to approach a trout stream, identify insects, determine your fly selection, read the water patterns, and navigate the pools to maximize your chances of catching a fish. After class, we encourage you to stay and put your knowledge to good use and catch some fish!
Please note: transportation to and from the river is NOT provided.
4 hours • $200 • Ken Lockwood Gorge • 10 people
Casting Basics
This is New York City’s best introduction to proper casting techniques. If you’re just starting out with fly fishing or getting back into the sport after many years away, this is your ticket to many enjoyable days on the water. Join us to perfect lifting your line, loading your rod, and presenting your fly exactly where you want it.
2 hours • $75 • Central Park • 6 people
