Fly Tying Instruction

The joy of tying flies is one that is shared by all the staff at Davidson River Outfitters, and teaching this craft is something we do not take lightly.  Commercial fly tying is what laid the foundation for our owner, Kevin, to pursue fly fishing as a career, and his family's fly patterns are still sought after today.  Fly tying classes at DRO are somewhat informal and light hearted.  There are many techniques and materials for creating flies, and we are open to all of them.  We offer classes for all skill levels, and personalized one on one instruction is available.  

Class sizes are limited to a six of eight students, and each student will receive a one time coupon for 15% off their entire purchase in store, or 20% off a guided fishing trip. All materials are included for each in person's session.

Fly 101:  Intro to Fly Tying, 8:30 to 12:30pm, $20 per person

December 11, 2021
January 8, 2022
January 22, 2022
February 12, 2022
February 26, 2022

Our intro class will give beginning fly tyers a good foundation for creating a variety of fly patterns for trout.  Students will learn how to use basic tools, understand thread and hook sizing, and how to create simple nymphs, streamers, and dry flies.  All materials and tools provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own tools as well.    

Fly 201:   Intermediate Fly Tying, 8:30am to 12:30pm, $20 per person

December 12, 2021
January 9, 2022
January 23, 2022
February 13, 2022
February 27, 2022

This intermediate class will cover more advanced techniques for fly tyers that are looking to create more dynamic flies.  Dubbing loops, articulated streamers, UV adhesives, and synthetic materials are just some of the techniques that will be covered.  All materials and tools are provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own tools as well.

Kids Holiday Fly Tying Session (Ages 15 & Under,), 9:00-12:00pm, Free

Saturday, December 18th, 2021

This "kids only" class is a perfect way to introduce young anglers to the craft of fly tying, and give them a chance to create a special handmade gift to give for the holidays.  The course will cover some fun, simple to tie, and effective fly patterns that are ubiquitous to all trout fishing.  Students will leave with a small selection of flies they have created, and a DRO fly box to put their flies in.  We will also have wrapping paper on hand, so flies can be put under the tree for the big day!

Tying Musky Flies, 8:30am to 12pm, $30 - Saturday, January 15, 2022

Tying Euro/Jig Style Nymphs, 8:30am to 12pm, $20 - Sunday, January 16, 2022

Ladies Fly Tying with Debbie Gillespie, 8:30am to 12pm, $20 - Saturday, February 5, 2022

Join DRO guide, Debbie Gillespie, for a ladies only fly tying course.  All skill levels are welcome, but the class will focus on simple patterns to learn the basic techniques of fly tying.  This class will fill up quickly.

Tying Flies for the Great Smoky Mountains, 8:30am to 12pm, $20 - Saturday, February 18, 2022

Tying Tenkara Flies, 8:30am to 12pm, $20 - Sunday, February 19, 2022

All classes include all materials needed and the use of DRO's vises and tying tools. However, participants are more than welcome to bring their own vises and tools.