Classes
Learn to Fly Fish.
Grow with Confidence.
Small Groups.
Hands-On Learning. Real Time on the Water.
Whether you're picking up a fly rod for the first time or ready to build on what you already know, our learning sessions offer a supportive, hands-on experience in the beautiful waters of East Tennessee.
Everyone Starts Somewhere.
Fly fishing is a lifelong journey, and you don't have to figure it all out on your own.
At Girls Who Fly Fish, we believe learning should be approachable, encouraging, and fun. Our small-group learning sessions combine hands-on instruction with real fishing experiences, giving you the opportunity to practice new skills, ask questions, and grow more confident on the water.
Led by our all-women team of instructors, our classes are designed to help you become a more knowledgeable, capable, and independent angler.
Come on your own or bring a friend. We'll meet you where you are.
101 — Learn the Fundamentals
New to fly fishing?
Our 101 sessions are designed to give you a strong foundation in a relaxed, supportive environment. You'll learn the essentials of fly fishing, practice your skills, and spend time on the water with experienced instructors nearby.
What You'll Learn
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Fly fishing equipment and rod setup
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Basic casting techniques
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Knots, rigging, and fly selection
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Reading water and understanding trout habitat
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Safe wading and stream etiquette
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Landing and releasing fish
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Conservation and caring for our waterways
No previous experience or equipment required.
201 — Build
Your Skills
Ready to move beyond the basics?
Our 201 sessions are designed for anglers who have completed a beginner class or already have some fly fishing experience.
We'll build on your foundation, refine your technique, and develop the skills needed to approach the water with greater confidence.
What You'll Learn
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Precision and distance casting
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Line management, presentation, and mending
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Reading water and identifying fish habitat
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Aquatic insects and fly selection
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Different rigging techniques
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Adjusting your approach to fishing conditions
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Developing more independent fishing skills
Best for anglers comfortable with basic casting and equipment setup.
301 — Explore
New Techniques
Our upcoming 301 sessions will offer focused instruction for anglers ready to explore specific techniques and new fishing experiences.
Topics may include Euro nymphing, streamer fishing, advanced casting, different species, and other specialized skills.
These sessions will vary by topic, location, and instructor.
What to Expect
Session Length
Typically 6 hours
Small-Group Learning
Limited spaces for personalized instruction
Meeting Location
Townsend, TN, or other designated locations
Equipment
Fly fishing equipment provided
What to Expect from a Learning Session
Our small-group sessions are designed to give you plenty of hands-on practice, personalized attention, and time to enjoy the water.
Small Groups, Supportive Instruction
Learn alongside other women in a welcoming environment where questions are encouraged and everyone can progress at their own pace.
Equipment Provided
We provide the fly fishing equipment you'll need for the session, so you can focus on learning without investing in gear before you're ready.
Real Time on the Water
Our sessions combine instruction with practical fishing experience, helping you put new skills to use on beautiful East Tennessee trout streams.
Learning Beyond the Cast
We also introduce stream ecology, fish habitat, conservation, and responsible fishing practices to help you develop a deeper connection to the waterways we enjoy.
Ready to Get on the Water?
Explore our upcoming learning sessions and find a class that fits your experience level and schedule.Class sizes are limited to create a more personal learning experience, so we encourage early registration.
There's More Than
One Way to Learn.
Not ready to sign up for a class? Join one of our free community fishing days, connect with your local chapter, or come to a casual meetup.
Looking for more personalized attention? Our all-women guiding team also offers private half-day and full-day fishing experiences tailored to your goals.
However you choose to begin, there's a place for you on the water.