Advanced Fishing/Guide School Recommendations

[steveg137]

Though I've been fly fishing for 25 years I've been considering taking an advanced class to expedite my learning. I took a casting lesson last year and it was enormously helpful.

Does anyone have any recommendations on the best advanced schools in Cal? I'm aware of the Cutter's and love their writing.

Anyone have any rec's?

Thanks,
Steve

[Rick J]

might just touch base with Jeff Putnam and sign up for some individual classes?

[Ralph]

[QUOTE=steveg137;125732
Does anyone have any recommendations on the best advanced schools in Cal? I'm aware of the Cutter's and love their writing.
[/QUOTE]

Thanks! I'm glad you like the words.
A better question might be who has the best school for YOU. There have been a bunch of subpar schools in the state, but they don't last very long. I'd get on the phone and call a few. Ask how long they've been in business and what exactly they offer. As an example we DON'T teach casting in our advanced class, but we DO spend an inordinate amount of time going over presentation skills. Some people equate advanced fly fishing with long distance casting and they would be sorely disappointed to show up at the door and find out we'll never cast more than 40 feet! Again, I think at this stage, the phone will be the best friend of both you and your instructors.
Best,
Ralph

[flyguy1]

No need to do alot of research , just contact Jeff Putnam, he is your man

[El Rey]

You might check out Clearwater Lodge. They've been doing these schools for quite a few years. Probably have to wait until Spring or Summer, though.

http://www.clearwaterlodge.com/flyfishing_schools.html

Good luck.

[steveg137]

Thanks everyone for your replies, much appreciated.

Ralph I just signed up for any spaces that come up on your Advanced class on FLYLINE.COM, looks very popular. Great Entomology DVD by the way, I'm getting used to the huge variety of insects compared to my native Scotland - lots to learn.

Cheers, Steve

[Ralph]

I should give you a public relations discount :-). Got your note, thanks.

[Scott Thornley]

I'll second the positive reviews of the DVD. I only wish it was even longer. And your comments on kids and bugs in the DVD are spot on. I had two 6 year olds and an almost 4 year old on the lower Yuba Tuesday and even with the drizzly weather they were having a ball.

Scott

[Bill Kiene semi-retired]

I think there is a guide school by Hyde Drift boats?

The Clearwater House, now Pit River Lodge, use to have a guide school and advanced ffing schools.


What about Ralph & Lisa Cutter's school system?

http://www.flyline.com/


Or go fishing with all the best guides in an area. Keith Kaneko, Bill Lowe.....


Confluence Oufitters Guide Group

http://www.confluenceoutfitters.com/


Shasta Trout Guide Group

http://www.shastatrout.com/

.

[Ralph]

@ Scott-
4 and 6 year's old are PERECT ages to let kids go wild. Not just collecting bugs, but climbing trees, looking under rocks for snakes, chasing worms after rain, and walking through the woods after dark with a flashlight. I truly believe these experiences hardwire the brain for inquisitiveness and curiosity for the rest of their lives. No amount of academic training will ever substitute for hands-on experiences at an early age. You did good!

[steveg137]

Ralph, great looking forward to the advanced class in may. Have asked a mate if he wants to join so will let u know in case there is capacity.

Cheers Steve

[Ralph]

Thanks Steve. I think it would be more appropriate to communicate via email instead of on Bill's board though. Thanks.