PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Fish and Wildlife announces that registration is open for two workshops on freshwater fly-fishing.
Hosted by the Division's Aquatic Resource Education (ARE) program, an introductory workshop on freshwater fly-fishing will be held at the Addieville East Game Farm on Saturday, May 30 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Whether you are a beginner or need a refresher course, this workshop will cover all the basics on freshwater fly-fishing. Top Rhode Island fly-fishing instructors will teach casting techniques, fly-tying, tackle needs, and knot-tying. Participants will also put their skills to work on the water. The workshop is open to everyone 10 years of age and older. All materials and equipment are included with the $15 per-person registration fee. Lunch is not included, so participants should pack a lunch. For additional information and for registration materials, contact Kimberly Sullivan at 539-0037 or via e-mail at or kimberly.sullivan@dem.ri.gov.
On Saturday, June 27, Wood River Fly Fishing, Narragansett Trout Unlimited and DEM's ARE program will sponsor their first ever women-only fly-fishing workshop. Fly- fishing instructors from all over the state will be present to teach women how to fly-fish in a hands-on, safe and non-competitive environment. The program will focus on equipment needs, fly-tying, fly-casting and fishing areas across Rhode Island. Lunch will be provided. Space is limited and registration is required. For more information and to register, please call 401-539-0019 or email kimberly.sullivan@dem.ri.gov.
In addition to these workshops, the ARE program offers group fishing training opportunities at the ARE training pond located in Richmond. The pond allows school, scout, senior and youth groups a chance to learn to fish in a safe, wheelchair-accessible area. Bait, rods, tackle and training are provided. Reservations are required and must be made through Kimberly Sullivan. For more information or to reserve the training facilities for your group, please contact Kimberly Sullivan at 539-0037 or via email to kimberly.sullivan@dem.ri.gov.