PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Fish and Wildlife will hold several fishing programs this fall. With stripers and bluefish plentiful in Narragansett Bay, autumn is one of the best times of the year to fish. Hosted by the Division's Aquatic Resource Education program, the programs include an introduction to saltwater fly-fishing workshop and a series of fly-tying classes. Pre-registration is required for most programs.
For over 20 years, the federally-funded Aquatic Resource Education program has been offering quality public fishing training for all ages. These programs are staffed by knowledgeable and experienced fly-fishing instructors who teach and frequent Rhode Island's shores, fishing our beautiful waters. Most of the instructors belong to local organizations such as Trout Unlimited, Rhody Fly-Tyers, United Fly-Tyers, and many more. Together, the instructors have over 60 years of fly-fishing experience to share with participants. The goal of the program and the instructors is to train future fly-fishing anglers in what equipment is needed and how to use the equipment safely, and share pointers on where anglers can find some of the best fishing spots in Rhode Island. The varieties of programs are designed to accommodate beginning anglers on up to the advanced. Families with children 10 years of age and older are encouraged and welcome to attend.
"Introduction to Saltwater Fly-Fishing" will be held on Saturday, October 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the US Fish and Wildlife Service's Kettle Pond Visitors Center in Charlestown. Fly-fishing instructors will teach participants fly-tying, casting techniques, and knot-tying. All materials and equipment are included with the $25 per-person registration fee. Lunch is not included, so participants should pack a lunch and bring a pair of waders. The program is open to adults and children age 10 and older. Space is limited and registration is required for this program.
"Fall Fly-Tying 2014" sessions will be held on six Mondays beginning November 17 to December 22 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the North Kingstown Community Center. Professional fly-tyers will teach beginning and intermediate fly-tying techniques for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. All material and equipment is included. Cost of the program is $5 for each class or $25 for all six sessions. Pre-registration is recommended, although walk-ins are accepted.
For additional information and for registration materials, contact Kimberly Sullivan in DEM's Aquatic Resource Education program at 539-0019 or via e-mail at kimberly.sullivan@dem.ri.gov.