The gentle art of fly fishing looks so easy when carried out by an expert, and it is, but to the beginner it can seem like a really complex and somewhat daunting hobby to take up. Where does one start? How does one select the right tackle? And if one ever gets out there ready to fish, where is the best place and what are the correct flies to use? So many questions; let’s see if I can answer a few.

Instruction
There is no substitute for getting off to a good start in any sport, so if you wish to learn fly fishing seek the advice of a trained coach. Many anglers come into the sport having tagged along with a friend on a trip to a lake or river; they may even have had some basic casting instruction from that friend. However, if you are really serious about taking up fly fishing then get a professional to help you right from the beginning. The governing body of the majority of instructors working in the field of fly fishing is The Salmon and Trout Association. Their website contains a wealth of information about all sorts of “fishy “things and it is well worth a look. www.salmon-trout.org

Recently a group was formed under the umbrella of the above organization specifically to work on improving the level of instruction and thereby raise the professional standard of all coaches out there. The majority of these coaches have now upgraded their qualifications and, should you wish to seek the best help, look no further than the Game Angling Instructors Association - see the website details below. All qualified instructors are listed on the site and you can select one from the county in which you live. All instructors are fully insured, have to attend regular first aid courses and will have been police checked. www.gameanglinginstructors.co.uk

OK, but what if I am not certain that this is the sport for me. The first point of contact should be Bristol Water, after all that is more than likely where you have picked up this magazine. Bristol Water run schools specifically for newcomers to the sport and they are organised by qualified instructors. They offer a really good and inexpensive way to have an initial look at the sport without having to purchase loads of expensive gear. Fishing Lessons are held at Chew Valley on Saturday afternoons throughout the season. These lessons last for five hours and teach the basics of casting and fishing. The course starts with intensive casting tuition on the grass. When a level of casting competency has been reached basic fishing methods for bank and boat are taught. These include fishing from the shore and from boats if conditions allow and teach leader set up, knots, fly and line choice, retrieves and playing and landing fish. All permits and licences are included in the cost and tackle is available if required free of charge. Cost for the course is £50.00.

Places on these courses are limited. To find available dates or to reserve a lesson ring: 01275 332339.