Orvis rolls out its wildly successful free fly fishing clinics
In 2010, Orvis successfully launched their inaugural Fly Fishing 101 program. The program was a huge success – over 5,000 students took a free fly-fishing class at an Orvis retail store or authorized dealer. Based on the success of last year’s program, they are expanding their efforts in 2011. Never before has there been such an organized effort at so many locations across the U.S. to bring new entrants to the sport of fly fishing. The event this year will kick off in May 2011. Their goal is to put over 10,000 students through classes in Orvis retail stores and dealers – 8,000 through corporate retail stores and 2,000 through Orvis authorized dealers.
A list of locations and dates for the 2011 classes can be found at https://www.orvis.com/free-fly-fishing-lessons.html
New for 2011
• They have expanded the number of dates for 2011 and moved the classes to run weekends May-July.
• Orvis and Trout Unlimited are still joining forces in 2011 as event partners for 101 events. Additionally, the Federation of Fly Fishers (FFF) is coming on board as a partner to offer additional instructor volunteers for this year’s events.
• They have added Fly Fishing 201 classes for 2011, for people who have already attended a Fly Fishing 101 class (or have some casting experience). These classes are held on the water and involve more fishing time and more one-to-one instruction under actual fishing conditions. A minimal charge may apply for some of these courses.
Event Dates
Fly Fishing 101
May 21, May 22, May 28, May 29, June 11, June 12, June 18, June 19, July 2, July 3, July 9, July 10.
Fly Fishing 201
June 4, June 5, June 25, June 26, July 16, July 17.
The 101 course will consist of two parts – 1 hour of casting instruction and 1 hour of rigging. Most participants came with little to no knowledge of fly fishing so keeping the focus on building a rod outfit was the best place to start.
201 class itineraries will vary by location. However, the main thrust of the 201 course is getting those interested in taking the next step in fly fishing on the water at a local location where they have a great chance at catching their first fish. Private water, local bass/bluegill ponds, a recently stocked river or creek will be used.
Special Offers
Once instruction is completed, each group attendee will receive a $25 coupon off any purchase of $50 or more good toward Orvis gear on that day only. Additionally, each group attendee will receive a certificate for a FREE Trout Unlimited membership and a free membership to the Federation of Fly Fishers– a $70 value. The total free package value including the instruction is valued at over $100.
