Fly Fishing Clinics

When casting along the river, it is not hard to see fly fishing as a form of art.

Courtesy of Beth Tobin

Join a local fly-fishing legend and learn the art of this gentle sport in a free workshop!

Youth fly fishing clinics are open for ages 12-16 with parent/guardian. Both kids and their parents/guardians will be taught to fly fish during this course. In 2024, youth fly fishing sessions are available September 8, September 15, and October 6.

Lessons, Schedule, and What to Bring

Ranger Mark Van Patten, who is is a 2023 inductee into the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame, will lead the workshops. Mark will demonstrate various fly rod casting techniques, proper catch and release techniques, and strategies for fly presentation. Lessons include aquatic entomology (fish food), recommended equipment, reading the water, and understanding flies.

All skill levels are welcome. Morning instruction will take place at Akers, followed by optional afternoon fishing on the upper Current River. (Afternoon fishing may require self-shuttle to attend. Park staff cannot provide transportation.)

Participants ages 16 and over must have a fishing permit. If you wish to keep trout, a trout permit is also required. Visit the Missouri Department of Conservation permit page to find pricing and purchase information.

Fly rods, reels, flies, and stocking foot hip waders are provided. Attendees should also bring the following:

• Suitable clothing
• Wading boots or shoes
• Hat (wide brim preferred)
• Sunglasses (polarized preferred)
• Lunch
• Drinking water
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray

How to Reserve a Spot

Advance registration is required, and group size is limited to 10 participants (plus parents/guardians). Call [phone] to reserve a spot.

For information or questions, e-mail [e-mail] or call Round Spring Ranger Station at [phone].

Details

Duration

7-8 Hours

The event will run from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, local time.

Activity

Fly Fishing

Age(s)

12 and Older

Youth fly fishing clinics are open for ages 12-16 with parent/guardian. 
Adult fly fishing clinics are open to adults only.

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

No

Ozark National Scenic Riverways does not charge an entrance fee. However, a Missouri fishing permit is required to fish on the river. In addition, a trout permit is required to keep trout (if desired).

Location

Mt. Zion Church

Morning instruction will start at Mt. Zion Church, located uphill from Akers.
Akers can be found at the intersection of K and KK highways, near Jadwin, Missouri. Call [phone] for further directions, if needed.

Reservations

Yes

Clinics are limited to 10 participants each (plus parents or guardians). Call [phone] to reserve a spot.

Accessibility Information

Teaching starts indoors at Mt. Zion Church, requiring movement across gravel and over a small step to access. Gravel is level in some areas but uneven in others. This portion has visitors seated indoors while a ranger presents.

After the indoor portion, visitors will practice fly fishing casts at the field in front of Akers Ranger Station. Grass is generally level, with some small depressions or bumps.

Later, visitors will practice casting onto the water from the edge of the river. This portion requires walking down steps and stepping or standing on uneven gravel surfaces.

At the end of the day, there will be optional fishing on the Current River. This would require wading in moving water on slippery or uneven terrain.

We ask all parents/guardians to participate in the lessons, but we understand that this is not always possible. If you are unable to make motions required to cast a fly rod, this class still offers valuable knowledge about flies, entomology, and river ecology. If nothing else, this is an opportunity to spend quality time with a loved one.

For questions about accessibility or accommodations, call the Round Spring Ranger Station and speak with Mark Van Patten at [phone].