PROVIDENCE – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) today announced it is hosting a series of free fishing fly-tying workshops for novice and experienced fly-tiers and a fly-fishing clinic this spring.
WHAT: Free Fly-Tying Workshops
WHEN: Wednesday, May 23, 30 | 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Brownell Library, 44 Commons, Little Compton
Tuesday, June 5, 12, 19 | 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Glocester Manton Public Library, 1137 Putnam Pike, Chepachet
Wednesday, June 13, 20 | 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. North Smithfield Public Library, 20 Main Street, North Smithfield
Instruction on freshwater angling will be included, and all equipment and materials will be provided. Participants are welcome to bring their own materials, if they prefer. Children aged 10 and older are invited to participate. Space is limited and registration is required. To register, contact Scott Travers at Scott.travers@dem.ri.gov.
WHAT: Ladies Fly-Fishing Day
WHEN: Saturday, June 23 | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Carolina Trout Hatchery, Carolina
This free fly-fishing workshop for women includes instruction on fly-tying, fly-casting, and related equipment. Participants also will have a chance to fish in a stocked pond to try out their new skills. All equipment and materials are provided and lunch will be provided. Program sponsors include Trout Unlimited, the Wood River Fly-Fishing Association, United Fly-Tyers of Rhode Island, and DEM. Space is limited and registration is required. For more information or to register for the workshop, contact Jessica Pena at Jessica.Pena@dem.ri.gov or at 539-0019.
These workshops are part of DEM's Aquatic Resource Education (ARE) Program. ARE is a federally funded program designed to enhance the public's understanding of their aquatic resources by providing safe and responsible fishing training opportunities. 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.
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