News of the Week
For Immediate Release: WEEK OF JANUARY 27, 2012
Illinois River Fly Fishing School offers two-day course
Anglers interested in fly fishing can learn the sport Feb.
24-25 at the Illinois River Fly Fishing School.
The clinic will be based out of Tenkiller State Park and
will feature instructional sessions as well as hands-on
practice on the banks of the Illinois River.
According to long-time instructor Mark Patton, the clinic lays a good foundation for both amateur and experienced anglers. While he "starts from the ground up," Patton said even those familiar with fly fishing can benefit from the instruction.
The clinic will offer in depth information on equipment, tackle assembly, knots, flies, casting, and tactics and will include on-stream fishing instruction. Patton said participants will leave with a better understanding of fly fishing by learning how the equipment works and why it performs the way it does when operated properly. While an angler may be proficient with bait-casting and spinning reel motions, converting that knowledge to fly fishing "just doesn't work." Upon completion of the Illinois River Fly Fishing School, Patton said participants will be ready to begin fishing by themselves.
"A guide right now in some places is $400
a day," Patton said. "I try to get people to where they don't
need a guide."
The clinic costs $150 and includes instruction on Friday and
Saturday, and anglers are encouraged to stay and fish Sunday.
Spots are limited, and registration is required by calling (405)
340-1992. Meals for the event are available for $30, or
participants can provide their own. Participants are responsible
for their lodging and can book a stay at the state park directly
by calling (918) 489-5641.
Fly rods will be available for loan on
Saturday, and participants who own their own gear are encouraged
to bring it with them to the clinic. Participants should dress
for outdoor conditions and bring a hat, sunglasses, coat, rain
gear, alarm clock and flashlight. The "welcome session" begins
at 8 a.m., Friday, Feb. 24, after cabin check-in, and all indoor
sessions and meals will be held in the community center located
immediately north of the Tenkiller office.
For more information or to register, call Patton at (405)
340-1992.
-30-