PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Fish and Wildlife will hold an introduction to freshwater fly-fishing program this month. Hosted by the Division's Aquatic Resource Education (ARE) program, the workshop will be held in Mapleville on Saturday, May 31 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
In order to encourage participation, the cost for the workshop this year has been reduced to $25.00 per person.
Held annually at the scenic Addieville East Game Farm, this six-hour workshop teaches the basics of fly fishing. From learning about the equipment necessary to enjoy a day of fly fishing on the Wood or Blackstone Rivers to learning how to tie a fly, participants will have an opportunity to explore the sport. Instructors are provided by the ARE program to teach participants the proper way of casting, how to tie knots, and the proper catch and release techniques. All equipment and materials are provided. Lunch is not included, so participants should pack a lunch. Space is limited and registration is required.
In addition to providing an opportunity for residents and visitors to engage in outdoor recreation, fishing contributes to the economic health of the state. Residents and tourists spend over $37 million annually in Rhode Island on trip and equipment-related expenditures for freshwater fishing, according to the American Sportfish Association's 2011 report, "Sportfishing in America."
Along with the fee reduction, this year's Introduction to Freshwater Fly Fishing class will be considered a self-guided event for DEM's Great Outdoor's Pursuit program. Those participants registered on a team for the Pursuit event will receive credit for attending and will also be given a special rate of $15.00 per person. Families with children over 10 are welcome to attend.
For additional information and for registration materials, contact Kimberly Sullivan at 539-0019 or via e-mail at or kimberly.sullivan@dem.ri.gov.