TU offering fly tying demonstrations
The Clinch River Chapter of Trout Unlimited is offering two separate fly tying events to cure any angler’s winter blues—an evening of free fly tying demonstrations, and a six-session tying course for anglers who have some fly tying knowledge and would like to expand their techniques.
The demonstrations on Thursday, Jan. 9, feature a dozen skilled tyers from the chapter. Guests can circulate around the room as tyers demonstrate a variety of fly patterns (pictured here from a previous demo night). The free, public program starts at 7 p.m. in the parish hall of St. Francis Episcopal Church, 158 W. Norris Road, Norris.
Additionally, two places remain open in the chapter’s Intermediate Fly Tying course. Guided one-on-one by experienced instructors, students will learn to tie nine different patterns for a total of 54 flies. Techniques taught will include tying fiber dubbing loops, spinning deer hair and tying extended foam bodies. Instructors demonstrating for the class will include Clayton Gist, who created the illustrated intermediate manual that will be provided to each student.
The cost of $125 includes the manual and all tying materials; students will need to bring their own vises and tying tools. Class proceeds benefit the Clinch River Chapter’s conservation and youth education projects.
The course is limited to 10 students. Classes will meet from 9 a.m. to noon at St. Francis Episcopal Church, 158 W. Norris Road, Norris, on six Saturdays: Jan. 18 and 25, and Feb. 1, 8, 15 and 22 (Feb. 29 is scheduled as a snow day). To register, call Dave Harrell at (865) 803-4541.
The Clinch River Chapter’s mission is to conserve and enhance the Clinch River tailwater trout fishery and its watershed, through conservation projects and through education of children and adults in aquatic natural resources. Meetings are held the second Thursday of the month at St. Francis Episcopal Church, Norris, except when outdoor activities are scheduled. For more information, visit https://crctu.org/