The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announced today it is hosting a series of fly-fishing clinics, beginning tomorrow. The sessions range from free, introductory classes for children to advanced instruction for experienced anglers.
"Over the years, DEM has introduced countless people to the joys of recreational fishing through our educational programming,” said DEM Director Janet Coit. “Helping people connect with and enjoy nature are core to our mission, and these workshops offer a little something for everyone. I encourage people to come out, spend the day with us, and experience the spectacular freshwater fishing we have in Rhode Island.”
Registration is now open for the workshops, which are led by experienced fly-fishing instructors as part of DEM’s Aquatic Resource Education (ARE) program; ARE is a federally funded outreach program designed to provide fishing training to the public.
April 16: Family Fun Fly-Fishing Day
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. // Carolina
In partnership with Wood River Fly Fishing, Narragansett Trout Unlimited, and United Fly Tyers, fly-fishing instructors teach families how to fish in a hands-on, safe, and family-friendly environment. Instructors highlight equipment needs and techniques for fly-tying and fly-casting and provide suggestions on the best areas for families to fish in Rhode Island. Lunch provided.
April 23: Kids' Fly Fishing Event
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. // Burrillville
An annual event hosted by DEM, Trout Unlimited, and United Fly Tyers to provide hands-on, fly-fish instruction to children 8 years and older. The program focuses on equipment needs, fly-tying, fly-casting, and fishing safety. Lunch and equipment provided. A parent or guardian must be present at all times.
June 4: Fly-Fishing Express
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. // Newport
Experienced anglers have an opportunity to access remote fishing areas along Aquidneck Island using the historic Old Colony Train. Instructors will be available to help fine-tune participants' fly-fishing skills. Lunch and equipment provided. Fee: $15.00.
June 25: Introduction to Freshwater-Fly Fishing
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. // Burrillville
Families with children 10 years and older learn about fly-fishing equipment, fly-tying, fly-casting, and the best fishing areas across Rhode Island during this six-hour workshop. Lunch and equipment provided. Fee: $15.00 per person.
July 9: Women’s Fly Fishing Workshop
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. // Carolina
DEM, Wood River Fly Fishing, and Narragansett Trout Unlimited host a fly- fishing workshop for women only. The program will focus on equipment, fly-tying, fly-casting, and highlight fishing areas across Rhode Island. Lunch and equipment provided.
DEM also offers group fishing training at the ARE training pond in Richmond, Rhode Island. The training pond welcomes school, scout, senior, and youth groups to learn to fish in a safe, wheelchair-accessible area. Bait, rods, tackle and training are provided. Reservations are required, and there is no cost to participate.
According to the Outdoor Industry Association, outdoor recreation in Rhode Island generates $2.4 billion in consumer spending and supports 24,000 jobs. As part of a larger network of recreational opportunities in the state, fishing plays an important role in connecting people with nature, promoting health, attracting tourism, and supporting a treasured tradition for Rhode Island families. According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, there are approximately 175,000 recreational anglers (age 16+) in Rhode Island. And recreational fishing contributes more than $130 million to the economy each year.
Space is limited and registration is required for all clinics. To register, contact Kimberly Sullivan at 401.539.0019 or via email at Kimberly.sullivan@dem.ri.gov.
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