submitted by Jenny Prazak
As part of Trout Unlimited’s Women’s Initiative, the Homewaters Chapter, located in eastern Rensselaer County, kicked off a Women’s Group earlier this year. The group started the season in May with an on-the-water fishing trip on the Little Hoosic River where eight women participated. Some had experience with fishing, but most were new to the sport. I think it is safe to say that everyone had a fantastic time. A lot of learning, a few fish, and a lot of fun! We are now planning another excursion for our Women’s Group for early August.
[private]Since peak stream fishing season for trout is in Spring and Fall, a summer excursion is planned to learn more about the details on equipment, rod and reel choices, flies, and fly fishing history. What better way than to partner with our friends at Orvis? Located in Manchester, Vermont, Orvis has had a long history of outreach and education and, in particular, has focused its corporate efforts around the largest growing market segment – Women. Led by their Fishing Manager, experienced guide, and casting instructor Dale Robinson, they have put together a special program specifically for our group.
The event will be on Saturday, August 8, 9:30 am, at the Orvis Flagship Store, Manchester, VT. It will be an overview and education session on rods, reels, line and other equipment, and a group casting clinic with demonstration by experienced Orvis staff. There will also be time “out on the pond” to try your casting skills
The participants will spend the morning at Orvis and plan a group lunch afterwards. In the afternoon, participants can choose to go through the museum and festival and/or head out to enjoy shopping in the outlets.
There is no fee associated with the event, other than the cost for lunch. Equipment will be provided by Orvis, but you are welcome to bring your own if you wish for the casting clinic. Orvis has also graciously offered a 10% discount to everyone on regularly priced merchandise.
If you are already excited about fishing or are just trying to figure out if this is the sport for you – please come. What better way to spend the day than with a wonderful group of women who share common interests and a love of the outdoors.
RSVP via email or phone Jenny Prazak by Friday, July 31, so we can get an accurate head count. E-mail:jprazak@vha.com, phone 518-685-0495 or cell phone 908-803-0247.
Special Highlight
The 8th Annual Fly Fishing Festival at the American Museum of Fly Fishing is not to be missed! Last year’s event drew over 400 people and this year they are bringing festival-goers a unique mix of fly fishing history and the latest and greatest technology. Join an amazing group of fly fishing collectors, antique dealers, and craftsmen on the beautiful Museum grounds on Historic Route 7A in Manchester, Vermont. A special feature will be a demonstration of 3-D printed reels by Michael Hackney. Other attractions include a barbecue and Concession Area, Casting with Vintage Rods, Kids and Family Activities, Vendors from the fly-fishing industry, Fly Tying Demoonstrations by Mike Rice and Brian Price, Meet and Greet with other Fly-Fishing Nonprofits, Casting Workshop and Free Equipment Appraisals.[/private]