* denotes additional registration and/or fees are required.

Fly Casting Skills Development (FCSD)

9/25/2026 & 9/26/2026 - 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

FCSD activities will be held on the lawn in front of the Redding Civic Auditorium.  You need a paid admission to participate, so please register online or pay at the registration desk at the main entrance. 

Casting

9/25/2026 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Bill Campbell

*CA01 - Fly Casting For Bass

Bass are close to just about every fly angler in North America. More fly anglers are targeting many species of bass than ever before. In addition to ever present largemouth bass, smallmouth, spotted and Guadalupe bass in Texas continue to gain in popularity given their, abundance, challenging nature and spirted fighting characteristics.  Fly anglers are discovering new flies to present to all species of bass. In particular, the continued rise of popularity relative to chasing smallmouth bass with a fly rod has driven advancements in tying larger articulated flies. These flies whether they are topwater, mid column or deep water flies require adjustments to your casting stroke.  This workshop will discuss how to adjust your casting approach to maximize the use of these large and very effective articulated flies.

Casting

9/25/2026 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Marion Hiller, Steve Hiller

CA04 - FCSD Facilitator Training

Learn effective strategies for guiding casters through the levels of the Fly Casting Skills Development (FCSD) program—from Foundation to Gold. Instructors will clarify the role and responsibilities of an FCSD facilitator, demonstrate level run-throughs, share practical tips for success, model the difference between light coaching and direct instruction, explain how one might to handle challenging situations, and highlight the critical role of the greeters’ table and the data collection process. Participants will leave with the knowledge and experience to run casters through FCSD levels and excitment host an event at their own club. A hands-on practice on the grass will follow the initial instruction. This workshop is intended for individuals who have achieved Bronze-Gold levels, are CI candidates, or Certified Instructors. Please bring a 9' 5-7wt rod, reel with floating line, and a 7.5 0X leader, note-taking materials, eye protection, and water. Yarn fly will be available.

Casting

9/25/2026 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Jonathan Walter

*CA02 - Mentoring CI Candidates

This 4-hour seminar is for all MCI/CI’s that mentor or want to mentor candidates for the single hand CI exam. Let’s share ideas and methods amongst experienced mentors and help those that are starting to mentor! There will be a presentation on useful approaches to mentoring, and participants may share their approaches and practices.  If there is time, we will find space outside to cover some exam tasks and their expectations. If you are interested in starting to mentor or want to share your methods, please attend!  Bring any materials you wish to share and a notebook.

Casting

9/25/2026 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Willy George, John Bilotta, Dave Bracks

*CA03 - THCI Prep Course

Everyone is welcomed to attend and you are not required to be an FFI Certified Casting Instructor (CI).  However, current CI’s and MCI’s are definitely encouraged to attend to find out what the THCI certification has to offer.  What to bring: Waders, boots, wading staff, water, hat, glasses or sunglasses, a two-handed Spey rod, reel, Scandi head or mid-length Spey line tailored to the THCI Exam is preferred, appropriate leader, and yarn fly.  Serious THCI Candidates are welcome to also bring their Skagit & sink tip set-ups as well for those tasks.  The workshop is being held entirely on-the-water at the famous Barge Hole on the Sacramento River about 30 minutes from the Redding Civic Auditorium.  Some ride sharing opportunities will likely be available.

Casting

9/25/2026 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Steve Hiller

CA05 - FCSD Silver

This hands-on casting class is designed to help you refine and master the skills required to achieve the FCSD Silver Level. Instructors will cover loop control, shooting line, Belgian cast, casting from your non-dominant side, accuracy skills, reach mends, and techniques for casting distances of 60 feet, and provide practice drills to improve and maintain those skills. The workshop is taught by Certified Casting Instructors and by facilitators who have achieved the Gold Level.  Equipment: A 5–6 wt fly rod; reel with a floating line; 7.5-foot 0X leader; and a yarn fly (provided). Please bring eye protection, a hat, weather-appropriate clothing, and water.

Casting

9/25/2026 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Mary Ann Dozer, Marion Hiller, Ruth Sims

*CA06 - Rewrite The Story of Your Loop: Tighter Loops with Video Analysis

If you're ready to take your casting to the next level, this workshop is for you. Your loop tells the story of your cast—let's rewrite that story together. Whether you want to sharpen your skills, climb the Skill Development Ladder, or pursue Casting Instruction Certification, you’ll leave with measurable progress and a renewed sense of possibility.  We’ll dive deep into the art of loop control—mastering those crisp 4-foot loops, dialing in your accuracy, and unlocking greater distance. More than just understanding the “how” of every cast, you’ll discover the “why”—so you can fix your own cast in real time, right on the water.  With cutting-edge video analysis, you’ll see your cast from a fresh perspective and get insights you can put into practice immediately. You’ll go home with a clear, actionable plan to keep improving, a 100-page workbook packed with resources, and access to over 50 instructional videos. Step into this experience and leave with the skills—and the confidence—to transform your casting and the story it tells.  Students should bring their favorite 4 to 6 wt rod with a Ox  7.5 Leader. No Flies.

Casting

9/25/2026 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Jonathan Walter

CA07 - CI Certification Exam Preparation

It is not too early to start preparing for certification in 2027! This 4-hour class is intended for CI candidates getting started on their journey towards certification. Candidates already on the path will also benefit. We will cover highlights of gear selection. Then we will cover the information all instructors must know not just to pass the exam, but also to be great instructors! Significant time will be spent casting, critiquing and correcting what are arguably the three most important tasks on the exam.  REQUIREMENTS:  5, 6, or 7 wt. rod with matching brightly colored floating line, 7.5-9 ft. leader tapering to 0X or thicker, hat, sunglasses, copy of the 2025 CI exam for note taking, chair or sitting pad may be desired

Casting

9/25/2026 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Sam Yee

CA08 - Tension Casts with Heavy Lines

This class focuses on:  Casting adjustments for sinking lines (*Lefty style, side arm, shifted casting plane, *More power, weight shift, torso & shoulder twist, *Double Hauling,  *sinking lines. sink tips, *integrated shooting heads with weighted clousers.  Pick ups: Raising the sinking line to the surface (roll cast pick up and spiral pick up); Avoiding the overload at the end of the stroke (tension casts horizontal belgium cast, vertical belgium cast, vertical belgium cast with backcast presentation.  Casting integrated shooting heads 400-450 grains (constant tension belgium loop helps cast head shooting heads with heavy clouser flies. I use a vertical belgium cast rolling the cast forwards towards the target and reversing the rotation for it on the backcast presentation for a 2 false cast delivery).  Eye protection, TFO rods and line provided for 10 students

Casting

9/25/2026 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Dave Bracks

CA13 - Tension in Spey is a Better Way

This is a comprehensive 3 hour on water workshop for advanced, MCI, THCI and THMCI candidates identifies the key steps for controlling tension in Spey casts. Learn why tension is vital for Spey cast fundamentals. Casts will include the Roll and Switch cast, Single Spey, Double Spey, Snap T/C and Snake roll casts. Learn the techniques, rules and drills for maintaining tension in every Spey Cast. Plus, Tips and Tricks to elevate your Spey casts to the next level. This is not a beginning Spey casting class.  Student skill requirements:  Students should be at an Advanced level of spey casting either single or two handed. Everyone is welcomed to attend and you are not required to be an FFI Certified Casting Instructor.  However, those who are working on their MCI, THCI or THMCI are definitely encouraged to attend to find the importance of Tension in spey.  Equipment: Bring waders, boots, eye protection, notebook and pencil.  Two hand Spey outfit with preferably Scandi or mid belly  head lines.   Single hand full floating DT or longer fine tapered head lines.

Casting

9/26/2026 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Steve Hiller

CA14 - Level Up to Gold: FCSD  Level Skills Workshop

This hands-on casting class is designed to help you refine and master the skills required to achieve the FCSD Gold Level. Instructors will cover loop control, curve cast, slack line presentations, roll cast pick up, backcast delivery, non-dominant accuracy, and casting from your non-dominant side, accuracy skills, and techniques for casting distances of 70 feet or more. The workshop is taught by Certified Casting Instructors and by facilitators who have achieved the Gold Level.  Equipment: A 5–6 wt fly rod; reel with a floating line; 7.5-foot 0X leader; and a yarn fly (provided). Please bring eye protection, a hat, weather-appropriate clothing, and water.

Casting

9/26/2026 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Todd Hegestad

*CA09 - Single Hand Spey Casting

This workshop is an introduction to single hand Spey casting techniques.  The workshop will begin with a comparison of traditional fly casting and Spey casting techniques and the application of Spey casting for fishing.  The Spey casting lesson will consist of understanding and practicing the foundation of Spey casting – the roll cast and progressing to the switch cast and then various versions of Spey casting.  This workshop will be on grass.  Equipment: Bring a 5 to 8wt rod and reel with a 9 ft tapered leader.  We will use yarn indicators.

Casting

9/26/2026 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Willy George, John Bilotta

*CA10 - MCI Prep Course

This comprehensive workshop is designed for a range of students.  If you are considering taking the MCI Exam someday, then this workshop will give you a solid understanding of what the Exam is all about.  If you are getting serious about training for the MCI Exam, then this workshop will let you experience the casts and teaching tasks first hand and answer your questions about the Exam expectations.  We will cast through a sampling of every section of the MCI Exam (both on the grass and on the water) and you are encouraged to cast along with us to give it a try regardless of your skill level.  This is not a beginning or intermediate level casting class.  This is an intensive 3 hour Workshop designed to give certified CI’s a solid feel for the MCI Exam at several different levels based on their interests and current casting abilities.  Student skill requirements: Participants must be at least an FFI Certified Casting Instructor (CI).  What to bring: Waders, boots, wading staff, water, hat, glasses or sunglasses, a suitable 9’ 6 or 7 weight single hand rod with preferably a 7 weight hi-vis orange teaching line, leader, and yarn fly.

Casting

9/26/2026 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Peter Lami

CA11 -  START an acronym - Gammel's 5E's reimagined

Co-presenting with Steve Levetan, VP – SE Council of FFI, “START” introduces 5 Variables (5V’s) for teaching controlled overhead loops: Slack, Timing, Acceleration, Rod arc/stroke length, and Tracking 180°. These observable cues provide students with a simple, consistent toolkit for effective practice drills and successful casting instruction. Preview: https://www.startflycasting.com

Casting

9/26/2026 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Peter Lami

CA12 - Three Pillars of Coaching

The Three Pillars of Coaching operate simultaneously, reinforcing each other: self-awareness deepens; responsiveness to cues and analogies grows; and the instructor shifts from teacher to guide to observer. Allow experimentation and failure, provide one external cue, then ask what the student noticed or felt. Use video when helpful. Preview: https://www.startflycasting.com

Casting

9/26/2026 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Peter Lami, Rene Hesse

*CA16 -  Expert Double Haul

Deep dive into the precise arm movements and timing behind an Expert Double Haul. Classroom instruction applies Lami’s START 5 Variables to refine and troubleshoot technique, followed by an outdoor workshop with ACA SE Accuracy & Distance Champion Rene Hesse. Explore line-speed multiplication, efficient biomechanics, timing, coordination, and in-plane hauling. Bring your fly rod outfit. Preview: https://www.startflycasting.com

Casting

9/26/2026 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Mary Ann Dozer, Marion Hiller, Ruth Sims

*CA15 - Accelerate Your CI Journey: A Workshop for Women taught by Women

We need more women Certified Casting Instructors—and this supportive workshop is your launchpad to step confidently into that role.  Exclusively for women pursuing their Casting Instructor (CI) certification, this workshop offers expert mentorship from accomplished women and a welcoming community dedicated to your growth. Whether you’re starting out or preparing for the exam, you’ll find the support and encouragement you need at every step.  Through hands-on instruction, video analysis, and real-time feedback, you’ll master loop control, sharpen your accuracy, and unlock greater distance. You’ll not only learn how to cast, but also why each movement matters—so you can self-correct and improve right on the water.  You’ll leave with a clear, personalized improvement plan, a 100-page Coursebook packed with resources, and access to over 50 instructional videos. Step into this experience and gain the confidence and skills to advance your CI journey.  If you’re ready to advance your casting skills, join us and connect with other women on the same journey who share your passion and ambition.  Please bring your 4 to 6 wt trout rod with a 0X 7.5 Leader.

 

* denotes material fee required, will receive additional instruction during registration

Tying

9/25/2026 9:00:00 AM - 10:00:00 AM

Bruce Delventhal

FT01 - Difference Between Fresh & Salt Materials & Flies

Showing the difference of materials and their use.

Tying

9/25/2026 9:00:00 AM - 11:00:00 AM

Bud Heintz

FT03 - Material Quality Overview

A "show and tell" program: I would like to help the audience with material selection, quality, tying techniques and "thinking outside of the box"!

Tying

9/25/2026 9:00:00 AM - 11:00:00 AM

Michael Taggert

FT04 - From the Mountain to the Bay, Flys of the Rappahannock River

This will be a talk and tying demo of flys from The Rappahnnok River Drainage. This includes such Historical Places as Camp Hoover, President Hoover's retreat in the Mountains.  The Birth Place of Presidents Monroe and Madison, The Boyhood Home of George Washington.  This is The Place where Pocohantas' Villiage was.  It is also Home to Vast and Diverse Fishery. all of which are accessible to fly fishers.  Michael Will Demonstrate several flies from the area.  The Patterns will be available as a web link to his site Attainable flys.com

Tying

9/25/2026 10:30:00 AM - 11:30:00 AM

Ron Fisher

FT02 - Hand Crafted Balsa Poppers

Discussing methods of creating hand crafted balsa wood poppers from start to finish.

Tying

9/25/2026 11:30:00 AM - 1:30:00 PM

Bruce Delventhal

FT07 - Fresh and Salt Similaries and Differences

Some basic tying techniques for fresh and saltwater flies.

Tying

9/25/2026 11:30:00 AM - 1:30:00 PM

David Dempsey

FT08 - Reinventing the Wheel: Classic patterns reimagined for trout that have seen too many fishermen

This tying demo and workshop follows up on some of the ideas shared in my presentation on entomology.  We explore adding subtle movement and concepts like mouth feel. The goal is to "match the hatch" without showing the trout the same old patterns they have already seen.  We add (borrowing from Lagunitas) A Little Sumthin!   Many of my patterns build on the work of some of the greats like Gary LaFontaine, Tim Fox and Bob Quigley.

Tying

9/25/2026 11:30:00 AM - 1:30:00 PM

Tom Logan

FT09 - The Western Coachman - Notes on It's History and Lineage

The developmental history of the Western Coachman will be discussed to include the evolution of the Coachman lineage of patterns from the original Coachman.  The biology of prey selection will be discussed relative to the continuing popularity of these patterns.  The presentation will conclude with a demonstration of materials and tying methods for the Western Coachman.

Tying

9/25/2026 12:30:00 PM - 1:30:00 PM

Michael Peratis

FT05 - Hybrid Fly Tying Meetings:  In-Person & On Zoom

This workshop provides a practical look at how Sierra Pacific Flyfishers successfully conducts weekly hybrid fly-tying meetings that combine in-person and Zoom participation. Michael will explain how the club develops its annual tying schedule, recruits volunteer instructors, and distributes schedules and announcements to members.  Attendees will learn about the information collected from each instructor, including material lists, photos, instructions, and teaching resources, as well as how meeting notices, reminders, recordings, and YouTube videos are prepared and distributed. Michael will also discuss managing email distribution lists and maintaining consistent communication with participants.  The workshop includes a detailed overview of the hardware and software used to support hybrid instruction, including cameras, microphones, lighting, Zoom, and computer equipment. Participants will see examples of the classroom setup, camera positioning, wiring diagrams, and photographs showing both the instructor’s and attendees’ perspectives.  Whether your club is considering hybrid meetings or looking to improve an existing program, this session offers proven ideas, practical tips, and real-world solutions. A question-and-answer session will follow the workshop.

Tying

9/25/2026 2:00:00 PM - 3:00:00 PM

Larry Olson

FT06 - Exploring all the Resources of the Fly Tying Group Online

The Fly Tying Group has a vast array of resources for tiers of all skill levels.  Many of these are on the FTG pages of the website of Fly Fishers International.  This workshop explores what is available and how best to use them.

Tying

9/25/2026 2:00:00 PM - 4:00:00 PM

Dutch Baughman

FT18 - The Fly Tying Instructor Program

This workshop will introduce the FTG Fly Tying Instructor Program, which was designed and developed to help fly tying instructors become better fly tying instructors. The discussion will feature how and why this Program was developed, the purpose of the Program, the pathway to the Endorsed Fly Tying Instructor designation, the Evaluation session protocol, and the array of Program resource materials available to all fly tying instructors. The Program offers a tremendous source of instructional materials as well as an opportunity to pursue the recognition as an FTG Board of Governors Endorsed Fly Tying Instructor. The Program emphasis is on ability to teach fly tying, and your ability as an excellent  fly tyer and vise skills is expected.

Tying

9/26/2026 9:00:00 AM - 10:00:00 AM

Joel Evans

FT13 - Barnyard Feathers to Genetic Splendor

How We Evolved From Barnyard To Genetic Chicken Feathers:  Bird feathers of all kinds have always been a natural material choice for fly tying.  Color, movement, flexibility, durability, dyed colors are attributes that make feathers an excellent choice.  Chicken feathers remain in high demand despite inexpensive synthetic materials having largely replaced other natural materials.  Education – FFI is about many aspects of our sport, especially education and advancing our personal skills, not just catching a fish.  This workshop is not a feather tying class.  Instead, explore the history of tying with chicken feathers and the evolution to genetic selection that enhances our tying skills and pattern variety.  What is genetic selection?  Whiting Farms specializes in this amazing progression.  Join me as we discuss today’s chicken feathers, explain how they are raised and processed, view Whiting samples, and identify applications in specific patterns.  Bonus - bring your patterns for show and tell.

Tying

9/26/2026 9:00:00 AM - 11:00:00 AM

Aaron Culley

*FT10 - Feather wing steelhead flies

Focus on winging modern steelhead fishing flies using feathers for winging these flies.  Bronze mallard for Lady Caroline style flies and hackle wings in the Glasso traditions.

Tying

9/26/2026 9:00:00 AM - 11:00:00 AM

Jim Borst

FT11 - FTG Awards Program Orientation

Looking for a clear path to becoming a more skilled fly tyer?  The FFI’s Fly Tying Skills Award Program offers a fun, structured way for FFI members to build confidence, refine techniques, and grow as fly tyers.  Through the progressive Bronze, Silver, and Gold and the new Saltwater Skills Award Programs, participants develop new skills, expand their knowledge, and gain the satisfaction of achieving meaningful milestones along the way. In this interactive informational session, you'll learn how the program works, what each award level requires, the educational resources available to help you succeed, and the many benefits of participating in this Fly Tying Group-sponsored initiative.  While this seminar does not include hands-on tying, you'll leave with a clear roadmap to elevate your skills and the inspiration to continue your fly-tying journey.  Whether you're looking to improve your technique, challenge yourself with new patterns, or earn recognition for your accomplishments, this workshop is the perfect place to get started.

Tying

9/26/2026 9:00:00 AM - 11:00:00 AM

Kuni Masuda

FT12 - Tying Extended Body Mayflies

This class will take you through the step by step process to create fantastic looking extended body mayflies which will last for many fish

Tying

9/26/2026 10:30:00 AM - 11:30:00 AM

Larry Olson

FT16 - Flies of the Gods

While working on the Fly Tying Group book, "Fly Tying for All Fish All Waters" I had to opportunity to connect with some of the best tiers in the world. A unique section was where I queried them all , "How can one become a better tier". This presentation is the top responses from the masters. This is not a tying demonstration but a sharing of great insight to enjoy the art of fly tying and create better flies.

Tying

9/26/2026 11:30:00 AM - 1:30:00 PM

Al Ritt

FT14 - Thinking Out of the Fly Box

This is a PowerPoint presentation discussing how we think about our fly patterns and uses.  It urges you to think about patterns as representing food sources as opposed to targeting specific fish species and talks about using alternate materials and modifying recipes for differing fishing situations.

Tying

9/26/2026 11:30:00 AM - 1:30:00 PM

Vern Jeremica

FT15 - Thread Management

Class will provide detailed information to improve a tiers skill in tying. The class will explain thread types and will show thread control techniques for managing materials (thread, floss, ribbing, dubbing, tails, legs, hair, feathers, etc). The instructor will discuss then demonstrate thread control techniques at the vise. This is not a class on tying a pattern, rather knowledge of thread and techniques to effectively use it to tie better fly patterns. The format for the class is lecture, not hands on tying. The instructor will be using a vise with video projection so the student can see the techniques.

Tying

9/26/2026 2:00:00 PM - 4:00:00 PM

Jim Ferguson

FT17 - Marrying Wings

A married wing is a classic technique in traditional salmon and trout fly tying where strips from different feathers are joined edge-to-edge to form a single, unified wing. When done well, the feathers appear to behave as one feather even though they are composed of multiple sections.  A married wing consists of two or more feather slips joined side by side. The technique is most commonly associated with classic salmon flies, where multiple colors are combined to create intricate wing patterns.  Learn the techniques is to create a wing that:  Holds together during handling and tying; Maintains clean color separation; Remains symmetrical; and Sits correctly on top of the hook.

Tying

9/26/2026 2:00:00 PM - 4:00:00 PM

Bud Heintz

FT19 - Materials and Tying Techniques

This is a show and tell program on tying techniques and material selection.  Open question and answers with the instructor.

 

Feature

9/25/2026 9:00:00 AM - 10:00:00 AM

George Daniel

FP07 - Tying Guide Nymphs:  Strategy, rigging, and approach as well while tying the patterns

Feature

9/25/2026 10:00:00 AM - 10:30:00 AM

George Daniel

FP01 - Back to Basics

Feature

9/25/2026 10:30:00 AM - 11:30:00 AM

George Daniel

FP05 - Dynamic Nymphing

Feature

9/25/2026 12:00:00 PM - 1:00:00 PM

George Daniel

FP08 - Tying Guide Streamers:  Strategy, rigging, and approach as well while tying the patterns

Feature

9/25/2026 1:30:00 PM - 2:30:00 PM

George Daniel

FP06 - Streamers

Feature

9/25/2026 2:00:00 PM - 3:00:00 PM

Mike Mercer

FP12- Tying Presentation

Feature

9/25/2026 3:30:00 PM - 4:00:00 PM

George Daniel

FP02 - Advanced Casting

Feature

9/25/2026 3:30:00 PM - 4:30:00 PM

Joel Crandall

FP14 - Mickey Sculpin

Feature

9/26/2026 9:00:00 AM - 10:00:00 AM

George Daniel

FP09 - Tying Guide Streamers:  Strategy, rigging, and approach as well while tying the patterns

Feature

9/26/2026 10:00:00 AM - 10:30:00 AM

George Daniel

FP03 - Advanced Casting

Feature

9/26/2026 10:30:00 AM - 11:30:00 AM

George Daniel

FP05 - Streamers

Feature

9/26/2026 12:00:00 PM - 1:00:00 PM

George Daniel

FP10 - Tying Guide Nymphs:  Strategy, rigging, and approach as well while tying the patterns

Feature

9/26/2026 1:00:00 PM - 1:30:00 PM

George Daniel

FP04 - Back to Basics

Feature

9/26/2026 1:30:00 PM - 2:30:00 PM

George Daniel

FP06 - Dynamic Nymphing

Feature

9/26/2026 1:30:00 PM - 2:30:00 PM

Mike Mercer

FP13- Tying Presentation

Feature

9/26/2026 3:00:00 PM - 4:00:00 PM

Pat Pendergast

FP11 - Considerations in Fly Fishing Travel

Feature

9/26/2026 3:00:00 PM - 4:00:00 PM

Joel Crandall

FP15 - Mickey Sculpin

Feature

9/26/2026 3:00:00 PM - 4:00:00 PM

Joel Crandall

FP15 - Mickey Sculpin

 

Fly Fishing Skills

9/25/2026 9:00:00 AM - 11:00:00 AM

David Dempsey

FFS01 - Entomology:  Pattern and Technique

Most flyfishers hopefully understand the connection between entomology and fly fishing.  Most of us understand the life stage of the insect and how that impacts our selection of pattern.  What many of us miss is the connection between the insects behavior and how this can and should affect technique and even where we fish!  The short version:  If it is a swimming insect, why are so many people fishing it with a dead drift?  Those mayflies that begin their emergence just as soon as they leave the bottom:  What patterns match that most effectively?  Those burrowing mayflies:  What kind of substrate are they burrowing in?

Fly Fishing Skills

9/25/2026 2:00:00 PM - 4:00:00 PM

Todd Hegestad

FFS03 - Fly Fishing Knot Tying

This class will teach the knots utilized when fly fishing. You will learn to tie the knots from the fly line to the leader, the leader to the tippet, and attaching the fly. The goal is to be self-sufficient on the water to tie the knots effortlessly and competently. Please note this is not a fly tying class.

Fly Fishing Skills

9/26/2026 10:30:00 AM - 11:30:00 AM

David Peterson

FFS02 - Sensory Abilities in Fish: Implications for the Fly Fisher

This session will take a trip through the sensory abilities of fish, emphasizing their implications for the fly fisher.  Vision, hearing, thermoreception, chemoreception, olfaction and tastes will be discussed.

Fly Fishing Skills

9/26/2026 12:30:00 PM - 1:30:00 PM

Earl Arnoldz

FFS04 - Teaching Fly Fishing

A review on how to set up a class and what to teach. A power point presentation followed by a round table discussion. The program is designed to help teachers and students with what is important for a basic beginning class whether it’s a one hour, one day or multiple classes.

Fly Fishing Skills

9/26/2026 2:00:00 PM - 3:00:00 PM

Ron Rabun

FFS05 - Short-line Nymphing Predation Czech and Euro Nymphing

This presentation provides insights into Short-line Nymphing predating modern Czech and Euro techniques. Commonly known as Ted Fay Two-fly Technique historically used on Shasta Area rivers.  Ron will present basic foundations and discoveries from over 60 years of experiences. You will learn basis setup, flies, casting and angling techniques. Beginner and advance anglers will likely discover new and improving foundations to their current angling experiences.

Other

9/25/2026 9:30:00 AM - 10:30:00 AM

Robert Fujimura

OT01 - California Heritage Trout Challenge – Workshop to Earn Yours

Summary: This workshop is aimed at fly fishers who are interested in earning their certificates and helping plan their first fishing trip to earn their award.  I will introduce the audience to what the award program is, show examples of these fish, give the distribution of these wild trout, list research resources on these fish, and present general tips on how to plan on traveling and fly fishing successfully to these locations.  Special attention will be given to nearby populations that attendees may want to fish after they attend this event.  Later the audience will be asked to break up into groups and given a list of angling or biology related questions on one or more of these trout.  Through onsite discussion and research, each group will report back their findings or recommendations.  The workshop will conclude with a question and answer session.   I will seek Department experts and past awardees to have a panel session for this last portion of the workshop.  Attendees Should Bring: Their own appropriate fly fishing guides, references, maps, and WiFi capable laptop, table, or cell phone to do online research during the group breakout session.

Other

9/25/2026 11:00:00 AM - 12:00:00 PM

Steve Schalla

OT02 - The Origin of the Golden Trout

Within the Southern Sierra is the Golden Trout Wilderness. This area is unique to the Sierra Nevada in that it was the only area that evolved three subspecies of our State Fish, the Golden Trout. Besides being one of the most beautiful fish in the world, the Golden Trout has adapted to changing conditions for thousands of years. Like the canary within the mines, the Golden Trout has also been an indicator as to how we impact our streams and watersheds through management of our watersheds.  My program will cover a natural and cultural history of the Golden Trout Wilderness. We will look at how the Sierra Nevada mountains formed, impacts from glaciation and volcanos, fish migration, introduction of fish species, and how fish populations adapt to their watershed. From the cultural side, we will look at how timber, mining, fishery management, and water interests have impacted our Golden Trout.

Other

9/25/2026 3:30:00 PM - 4:30:00 PM

David Peterson

OT03 - Conservation Groups Unite to Stop Sale of 13 Michigan Dams:  A Last, Best Chance to Restore Five Iconic Rivers

This session will describe how five prominent Michigan conservation groups, including the Great Lakes Council of Fly Fishers International, are trying to stop a scheme that could irreparably harm five of Michigan’s most important and storied rivers which provide outstanding fly fishing for trout, salmon and steelhead and smallmouth bass.  The stakes are high- this may well be the last, best chance for eventually decommissioning of the dams, allowing the rivers to flow freely again.  We will describe how Consumer's Energy has proposed the sale of thirteen aging dams for $1 apiece to  an out of state private equity firm.  The sale would allow Consumers Energy to transfer substantial future operational and environmental liabilities and risk to the private equity firm. Stopping the sale may also be our last chance to eventually decommission the dams, allowing these rivers to flow freely once again.

 

Seminar - Destination

9/25/2026 9:00:00 AM - 10:00:00 AM

Miles Zimmerman

S04 - Fly Fishing the Truckee River

My name is Miles Zimmerman and I am the co-owner and General Manager of Trout Creek Outfitters in Truckee, CA. This presentation will be an in-depth how to on fly fishing the Truckee, Little Truckee and other local waters in the Reno/Tahoe region. I go over the seasons, methods, and locations to maximize your chances on this notoriously difficult western freestone and it's tributaries.

Seminar - Destination

9/25/2026 10:30:00 AM - 11:30:00 AM

Joe Garza

S13 - Eagle Lake - Rainbows in the High Desert

Join Joe Garza an Orvis-endorsed guide in Northern California and a contributor to California Fly Fisher magazine. Joe will share his presentation and experiences on Eagle Lake. He has been refining his techniques there for the last 20 years, and one of the few Lassen national forest permit holders for guiding Eagle Lake. He will share some history of the area and the techniques that have performed well in targeting the elusive Eagle Lake Rainbow Trout. Eagle Lake fishes best in the late Fall through the cold months of winter. Joe will also share how to properly prepare for the frigid temperatures associated with winter fish.

Seminar - Destination

9/25/2026 12:00:00 PM - 1:00:00 PM

Michael Malekos

S02 - Destinations Within Our Reach

Presentation will cover basic fishing tactics, techniques, and strategies for catching trout on the fly. Fisheries discussed include Hat Creek, Burney Creek, Baum Lake, Lake Brittan, Fall River, McCloud River, Pit River, Medicine Lake, Feather River, etc. to name a few.

Seminar - Conservation

9/25/2026 12:30:00 PM - 1:30:00 PM

Michael Wier

OT04 - CalTrout Conservation

In this talk, I'll be giving an update on the Klamath River post dam removal, CalTrout projects of interest around the state, Yuba River "Nature Like Fishway" update.

Seminar - Destination

9/25/2026 1:30:00 PM - 2:30:00 PM

Eduardo Crespo

S12 - Warmwater Fishes of Brazil

Provide an overview of some key warmwater species found in Brazil, including 8 types of Peacock Bass, Arapaima, Golden Dorado, Vampiire Fish, Apapá, Bicuda and Wolfish.

Seminar - Destination

9/25/2026 2:00:00 PM - 3:00:00 PM

Johnny Feaster

S16 - Putah Creek/Conservation/ Lake Berryessa

Fly Fishing Creek/Lake and Conservation tips

Seminar - Destination

9/25/2026 3:00:00 PM - 4:00:00 PM

Mike Pease

S06 - Fly Fishing the Lost Sierra

The Lost Sierra of California has over a million acres of wilderness loaded with lakes and streams that are often overlooked. Come hear an Orvis endorsed guide share with you this special area to fly fish. Mike will give an overview of the area along with more detailed information to fish the Middle Fork & North Fork of the Feather Rivers and Lake Davis.

Seminar - Destination

9/25/2026 3:00:00 PM - 4:00:00 PM

Joe Garza

S14 - Lower Yuba River - A gem in the heart of gold country

Join Joe Garza, an Orvis-endorsed guide in Northern California and a contributor to California Fly Fisher magazine. Joe will share his presentation Lower Yuba River - A gem in the heart of gold country. Joe will share the variety of opportunities we have on the Lower Yuba River, as well as the variety of hatches. As many of you already know, the Lower Yuba River can be a challenging river to fish, Joe will help unlock some of the secrets to fishing this fishery.

Seminar - Fishing Skills

9/26/2026 9:00:00 AM - 10:00:00 AM

David Dempsey

S01 - Did You Miss Something?: Bugs, Pattern Choice and Technique

Taking a deeper dive into entomology to learn about the insects behavior will often change our pattern choices and techniques.  Case in point:  If it is a swimming insect, why are so many of us still trying to dead drift our nymphs?  That rise:  Was it to an adult...or to a nymph in the film--and what is the best way to deal with that scenario?  Knowing more about the insects also tells us what section of a riffle or run we should be targeting!  Former guide David Dempsey has been teaching fly fishing for almost 40 years and started the fly fishing classes at the College of Marin in 1994.

Seminar - Fishing Skills

9/26/2026 9:00:00 AM - 10:00:00 AM

Laurie Banks and Ken Davis

S07 - Completing the Western Native Trout Challenge

Self-proclaimed trout bums Laurie Banks and Ken Davis love to chase trout. Their involvement in the Western Native Trout Challenge (WNTC) changed their lives. It took them to beautiful locations in the west and introduced them to native species they had never caught.  WNTC is considered the mother of all challenges, asking participants to catch 18 native species in their native habitats across 12 western states. Laurie was the first woman, and they were the first couple to complete the program.  Laurie is a retired Continuation High School teacher who is the couple's researcher and trip planner. Ken is an aquatic biologist and professional photographer. Both are experienced anglers.  Their presentation will explain the challenge, help getting you started and give you keys to being successful. Laurie will also cover how your catches can be melded with state trout challenges and Fly Fishers International's Cuttcatch program.

Seminar - Destination

9/26/2026 9:00:00 AM - 10:00:00 AM

Miles Zimmerman

S08 - Pyramid Lake On The Fly: Tactics, Timing and Trophy Trout

Miles Zimmerman of Trout Creek Outfitters fly shop in Truckee, CA gets into the nitty gritty of how to fish Pyramid Lake on fly gear. This is the most in-depth presentation of fly fishing Pyramid Lake out there!

Seminar - Fishing Skills

9/26/2026 10:30:00 AM - 11:30:00 AM

Tam Luong

S03 - The Art of Fly Fishing with a Tenkara Rod

Discover tenkara from traditional Japanese fly fishing to modern fly fishing practice—with an engineer’s look at why it works. In this upbeat seminar, Luong Tam takes fly fishers from zero to hero, covering rod setup, casting, line control, fly presentation, and the art of landing fish with the rod—not the reel.

Through both art and science, you’ll explore how tenkara rod design, leverage, tension, water current, and simple physics make a fixed-line system surprisingly effective, sensitive, and fun. Whether you are new to tenkara or an experienced fly angler, you’ll leave with practical skills, fresh ideas, and a deeper appreciation for the elegance of fishing with a tenkara rod.

Seminar - Fishing Skills

9/26/2026 12:00:00 PM - 1:00:00 PM

Ken Davis

S09 - Aquatic Invertebrates for Fly Fishers

Aquatic invertebrates are the basis for fly fishing.  Anglers debate over size, shape and color, but Ken Davis believes that presentation is most important.  Understanding how mayflies emerge, stoneflies hunt, and dragonflies move is essential, if not paramount to a successful fly-fishing experience.

Magazine editors have called Ken, one of the best invertebrate photographers in the nation. Ken's images have been published by National Geographic, American Angler, The Flyfisher and hundreds of other books, periodicals, encyclopedias and websites.

His presentation will cover all the major groups of aquatic invertebrates using high-definition images, subsurface video clips showing how trout react to water bugs and artificial flies and his personal experience with fly-fishing.

 

Seminar - Destination

9/26/2026 12:00:00 PM - 1:00:00 PM

Joe Garza

S15 - Lake Almanor - Not Just a Hex Fishery

Join Joe Garza an Orvis-endorsed guide in Northern California and a contributor to California Fly Fisher magazine. Joe will share his presentation Lake Almanor - Not just a Hex fishery. He has been refining his techniques there for the last 20 years, and one of the few Lassen national forest permit holders for guiding Lake Almanor and Eagle Lake. He will share some history of the area and the techniques that have performed well in targeting trophy trout. Lake Almanor fishes well year round. However, prime time is April through June and September through November.

Seminar - Conservation

9/26/2026 1:30:00 PM - 2:30:00 PM

George Pess

S10 - The future of steelhead - Fly fishers to citizen scientists

Imagine if every steelhead caught can become a source of information, transforming a single encounter into the knowledge needed to protect an entire population.  A steelhead becomes more than a moment on the end of a line.  It becomes part of a living population with a history, a diversity, and a future worth protecting. We at the The Conservation Angler (TCA) are making this happen with anglers, guides, and lodges - turning an encounter into scientific data to help manage and conserve steelhead populations across the Pacific. Join us to learn how to become part of this effort.

Seminar - Destination Within Our Reach

9/26/2026 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Michael Malekos

S02 - Destinations Within Our Reach

Presentation will cover basic fly fishing tactics, strategies, and techniques, for catching trout on the fly. Fisheries profiled include Hat Creek, Burney Creek, Baum Lake, Lake Britton, Fall River, McCloud River, Pit River, Medicine Lake, etc. to name a few.

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Seminar - Fishing Skills

9/26/2026 3:00:00 PM - 4:00:00 PM

David Dempsey

S11 - Have Rod. Will Travel

Flyfishing takes us to some of the most beautiful places in the country and on the planet.  Former guide and FFI instructor David Dempsey who coincidentally studied photography in college brings a camera of some sort everywhere he goes and shares some stunning images.