Catskills Fly Fishing Instruction
Learn to fly fish in the birthplace of American fly fishing with licensed Catskill Mountain guides.
Learn the Art of Fly Casting
Whether you are looking to refine your fly fishing skills or if you are just starting out — our knowledgeable fly fishing instructors will help you enhance your proficiency. When you are ready, we can take your new skills to the Catskill waters. We promise an unforgettable experience. Join us and confidently embark on your next fly fishing journey.
Learn and/or develop your fly casting skills on land with an Ashokan Outdoors Licensed Instructor. Our Guides will teach you about different fly rods, reels, lines, and how to use each of them. You can learn the basics or enhance your current skills. This instruction is conducted without hooks on open lawn so we can get a little crazy.
What You'll Learn
- Proper fly casting technique and form
- Understanding different fly rods, reels, and lines
- How to read water and identify fish-holding spots
- Fly selection based on local insect hatches
- Knot tying and rigging fundamentals
- Catch and release best practices
- Catskill fly fishing history and traditions
Equipment Provided
We provide all the equipment you need — fishing rods, reels, lines, and flies. We also have inventory of many common sizes of chest waders and boots. If we don't have your size in shop, we will help find them for you.
If you wish to bring your own equipment, please let us know in advance so we can review your gear. An 8.5 or 9-foot rod with a 5 or 6 weight forward floating line is most versatile for Catskill rivers and streams. A 3-4 weight rod can be appropriate for smaller streams.
Required Licenses & Permits
New York State Fishing License
Mandatory for anglers age 16 and over. Single and multi-day options available for NY residents and non-residents.
Get your license onlineNYC DEP Watershed Recreation Permit
Ashokan Outdoors is licensed by NYC DEP to guide clients on NYC watershed properties, but permits are required to enter these lands. The NYC Watershed Permit is free.
Get your free permit
Instruction Rates
20% deposit required upon booking. Balance due day of trip.