[JTOwings]

Hey:

Hello from Michigan way(southeast)! I have been a fisherman most of my life, boating mostly walleye, salmon, lakers, steelhead, bass and perch however the serenity of a stream, flyrod and trout seems very appealing. I suppose it is because I'm a little longer in the tooth........I've read through the posts here and have read a little, fly fishing seems like a simple concept, however it is complicated and a little overwhelming. Anyone recommend a place to start here in MI or how to get your feet wet...so to speak of course??

Any input would be well appreciated.

Thanks.

John

[Frank Whiton]

Hi John,

Getting started is always a little different for each person. If you have a family member or friend that fly fishes that is great way to go. If you don't know any one then a good fly shop is an alternative. A fly shop that will give casting lessons is even better. Visit Sport Shows that feature fishing and boating. You will see a bunch of people wandering around who may be your future fishing buddy. You may be able to locate a group casting lesson and that is a great place to meet someone to learn and fish with. Having a friend to learn or fish with will accelerate your learning. If none of this fits then there are books and DVDs. Since you live in Michigan one of the first books I would get is "Trout Streams of Michigan" It won't help you learn anything about fly fishing but it will tell you about most of the fly fishing water in Michigan. It gives access points, parking, fly shops and even some restaurants.

If you are still mystified by fly fishing this forum is a great place to get your questions answered. Another great learning tool is to hire a guide and tell him you are more interested in learning than catching fish. If you find the right guide you will learn a bunch, have a great day on the water and may even make a friend. You should also be learning fly fishing knots.

Frank

[Jackster]

Hello John,

I would highly suggest you hook up with this group: MFFC
I moved away from Michigan 6 years ago and still keep my membership current. It's just a great group of people ready, willing and able to help a newby out in every way, shape and form!
Hurry and join... some of the great fly fishing schools the club puts on will be starting soon. It'll shorten your learning curve by years!

Have fun!

[JTOwings]

Thanks Frank and Jack for the replies.

I will take your advice and practice tying knots and look into joining the MFFC. The website doesn't have the 2008 classes listed yet or at least due to my limited computer skills, I couldn't find them. I will keep watching for them. A buddy of mine live is Rose City and we are going to head up early spring for the Steelies in the Au Sable, but he is a spinner fisherman and will use spawn. I have a strong desire to line one with fly gear....anyways. Thanks again!!!!!!

John

[BigCliff]

Welcome to the group!

I'd recommend starting out with a casting lesson, then move on to fishing wolly buggers for pond sunfish. Dealing with moving water can come later.