25% off Hatch Hunt Guided Fishing Package
Fly-fishing may be somewhat difficult to master but certainly not to learn, there is a saying and I assure you it is true "A day to learn and a lifetime to master". Most importantly is recognizing that learning to cast a fly rod is a relatively easy process based on understanding and applying some mechanical skills required to create a functional cast, learning to Fly-fish is a separate undertaking which if at all possible should begin after having learnt to cast (even a little bit).. Sounds daunting? It is not!
We are firm believers that the process of learning to cast should take place on the grass to begin, no distractions of rising, slurping, splashing fish to create distraction and loss of focus and coordination (I assure you as a seasoned Fly-fisher a large rising fish has an amazingly negative effect on co-ordination and normally elegant presentations of the most experienced Fly-fishers).
Generally an hour perhaps two spent on the grass with a good instructor is sufficient to generate the mental "click" of sub-conscious and conscious recognition of what yields mechanically, a successful cast and in that you will be able to consciously recreate those mechanical steps you apply to achieve muscular control to deliver the desired result time and time again of a fully functioning and effortless cast. It is at this point that we will transition to the shores of a still body (lake or pond) of water where for a short time anyway it is likely that you will get the overwhelming feeling that you have learnt nothing. Yikes!
Honestly this is (should be) a brief occurrence, as your expert instructor will have anticipated this moment and having already recognized what terminology and energy transfer analogies you best identify with he or she will dial you back in to your casting groove, with the added knowledge of how the surface tension (resistance) on the line is used to your advantage. At about this point you will likely begin really enjoying the prospect of laying a fly out across 40 feet or so of glassy water to that large slurping trout. Oops! Here we go again, what do you do now?
Time to learn to Fly-fish.
I promise that at this point you likely will cast technically better than many anglers you may meet who have been flailing at the water without instruction for a summer or two - Really!
If you really want to learn the way of the Fly-fisher join us for a 5 day destination program. You will not only learn to cast and fish and tie flies, you will journey to incredible places in the Canadian Rockies and each day will yield experiences and memories that will likely bring you back again and again.
Our lessons are based at Nakoda Lodge on Chief Hector Lake, where we offer the very best in introductory fly casting for individuals, couples, families and various types of groups. Your instructor will take you through the fundamentals of fly casting, starting you out on dry land. By the end of the course you will have improved on your technique increasing your distance and accuracy. For those who have proven to be safe enough, you will be given an opportunity to take your new skill level to water in a drift boat to test your casting on some Rainbow Trout.
This program is designed with the beginner in mind or for those who want to seriously improve their skills. Yes you could also purchase this trip as a very quick get-away fishing outing if you are pressed for time.
An ideal trip if you can only get away for a relatively short time. Chief Hector offers very consistent and predictable dry fly hatches virtually all day long, we will assure you take advantage of these.
Whether beginner or advanced Fly-fisher this time spent on the waters of Chief Hector surrounded by the best views of the Rockies will definitely have a rejuvenating effect on you, and like the Eagle your movements while purposeful will become effortless. I assure you your casting and fishing ability will improve to a point of effortless success.
For reservations please call our office: 403-675-0973. Our office hours are Monday to Sunday 8:00am to 10:00pm MST.
Nakoda Lodge is located on Highway 1A, North Kananaskis (between Morley and Seebe 16 km West of Morley and 30 km east of Canmore)