Learn Fly Fishing
New to Fly Fishing?
Fly fishing can feel overwhelming when you're just starting out. Our goal is to make learning approachable, supportive, and fun. Whether you're picking up a fly rod for the first time or looking to build more confidence on the water, Girls Who Fly Fish offers resources and opportunities to help you grow as an angler.
Start Here
Everyone starts somewhere, and you don’t need experience to join our community. GWFF welcomes beginners and provides opportunities to learn the basics in a relaxed and supportive environment.
Beginner topics we help with:
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Understanding basic fly fishing gear
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Learning how to rig your rod
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Casting fundamentals
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Knot tying
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Reading water
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Wading safety
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Catch and release techniques
Many of these skills are introduced during our meetups and group fishing outings.
Small Group Learning Sessions
For women who want extra help building confidence on the water, we offer small group learning sessions throughout the season.
These relaxed outings focus on developing real-world fishing skills in a supportive setting.
Topics may include:
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Casting practice
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Setting up your fly rod
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Choosing flies
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Reading water and identifying fish habitat
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Wading safely
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Landing and releasing fish
Sessions are typically:
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3–4 hours
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small groups (up to 3 participants)
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beginner-friendly
These sessions are designed to help you feel comfortable fishing on your own.
Private Fly Fishing Mentorship
Some anglers prefer one-on-one instruction to build skills and confidence more quickly.
Private mentorship sessions are available for women who want personalized guidance learning the fundamentals of fly fishing.
Private sessions may include:
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Casting instruction
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Rigging and gear setup
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Reading water
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Fishing techniques
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Building confidence fishing local waters
Private sessions are typically half-day outings designed to meet you where you are in your fly fishing journey.
Getting Started with Gear
Fly fishing gear can feel complicated at first, but you don’t need a huge collection to get started.
Basic beginner gear includes:
• Fly rod and reel
• Floating fly line
• Leader and tippet
• Waders or wet wading gear
• A small selection of flies
During meetups and learning sessions, members often share gear recommendations and tips for getting started.
We also encourage supporting local fly shops when purchasing equipment.
Fishing Around Knoxville
East Tennessee is home to incredible trout streams and rivers that offer great opportunities for fly fishing.
Some of the local waters Knox Girls members often explore include:
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park streams
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The Clinch River
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The Holston River
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The French Broad
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Little River and surrounding Smoky Mountain waters
Group outings often take place on beginner-friendly sections of these rivers.
