Every year I attend at least one stop on The Fly Fishing Show’s east coast schedule. Along with catching up with fly fishing friends and browsing the exhibitors’ booths, I made time for the various kinds of scheduled programs. This year I watched a casting demonstration focused on dry fly presentation. I attended seminars explaining flies for trophy brook trout and two-handed gear. I was also given the opportunity to sit in on a fly tying class for articulated streamers.
I continue to be impressed at the quality of these presentations and their applicability for all kinds of anglers. Similarly, I am surprised that more aren’t standing-room only. Even though there is an absolute wealth of information available online, the personal and in-person aspects of these programs create unique educational occasions.
These demonstrations, seminars, and classes are all different in format and content. Each are valuable for all anglers, especially those who are already planning on attending The Fly Fishing Show (or similar expos). Here are quick breakdowns of the three programs and their distinctives:
Demonstrations
These take place out on the show floor. Sometimes they include product exhibitions, but often at fly fishing shows the demonstrations include casting on water. Casting demos might include basic skills (line management), advanced techniques (double hauling for distance), or novel approaches (trout spey). Since it is out in the open, you can stop and watch to see if the subject matter or presenter is interesting. There won’t be any Q&A, but the benefit comes from seeing the complex act of casting in person while having the particulars explained.
Seminars
Sitting for a lecture and watching a PowerPoint presentation isn’t generally considered fun. But it can be compelling when the topic is interesting. There are not that many hour-long instructional videos on YouTube. Aside from an ambitious fly shop or a monthly Trout Unlimited meeting, attending a special seminar at a fishing show might be the only chance you have to get quasi-formal and in-depth education. Topics can range from destinations to fly tying to strategies.
Classes
While the other two opportunities are free, classes are potentially the most significant time you can spend at a fishing show. Although they have a price tag, the group size is smaller, the individual attention is greater, and the content is more pointed. You tie while the instructor ties and offers comments. You answer questions asked by the instructor. You are a significant part of the experience. It is quite likely that you will learn something notable from watching a demonstration or a seminar; it is inevitable that you’ll be challenged at a class.
See what educational options your local outdoor show, conservation organization, or fly shop has to offer. Or, take a trip to the next stop on The Fly Fishing Show. Whatever you do, don’t pass up an opportunity to learn.