Lessons & Events

Fly Fishing and Fly Tying Instruction is offered year round at Chicago Fly Fishing Outfitters - and there is usually an event or two right around the corner scheduled at the shop....

If you have an interest in learning fly fishing or fly casting or you want to improve upon the skills you already possess, the gifted professional instructors at our shop can help. We offer classes and clinics during the spring and summer months, and private instruction is available all year long.

If your interest lies in learning the art of fly tying, we offer Introductory and Intermediate level classes in the fall and winter.

Scroll down to view current 2018 schedule

Private Lessons - Available year round.

Allow the instructors at Chicago Fly Fishing Outfitters custom tailor a private lesson for you. We conduct casting lessons on North Pond in Lincoln Park. Our seasoned instructors can assist with all skill levels from beginner to advanced. Most "intermediate" anglers suffer from the same limitations and common mistakes. A one hour lesson can tweak your cast and make your next day on the water more enjoyable. We can teach hauling and basic spey/switch casting as well. All equipment provided.

Please call the shop to schedule 312.944.3474

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Introduction To Fly Tying - Tuesday's, Jan 8th, 15th, 22nd

Learn the Art of Fly Tying!

Join instructor, Captain Will Winans for this comprehensive three-session class designed to introduce the fundamentals of fly tying.

In 3 classes you'll learn to tie the three major categories of flies: streamers, nymphs and dry flies. No experience necessary.

Call 312-944-3474 to reserve your spot.

This 3 evening session will get you started in the entertaining and infinitely productive art of fly tying- just in time for winter and the long dark days ahead!

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Intermediate Tying: Peter Cozad's Guide Flies for the Driftless - Saturday, January 12th 5:30 - 7:30 PM

We are excited to host Pete Cozad , head guide at the Driftless Angler in Viroqua, WI for an Intermediate Fly Tying class that will focus in effective flies for the Driftless area and beyond. With well over 100 days a year on the water Pete has a unique perspective on fly design. He will share some of his most unique and efficient flies. All materials provided.

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Intermediate Fly Tying Class - Midwest Smallmouth Flies - Capt Will Winans - Wednesday, January 23rd 6:30 - 8:30 PM

Go-to Smallmouth Flies. Capt. Will Winans, Chicago area guide, shares and teaches some of his favorite fly patterns for smallmouth bass. Learn a range of fly styles and techniques proven for smallmouth bass, a wild and native species to the Midwest.

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Intermediate Fly Tying Class: Effective & Efficient Guide Patterns - Wednesday, February 6th 6:30 - 8:30 PM

Go-to Smallmouth Flies II Capt. Will Winans, Chicago area guide, shares and teaches some MORE of his favorite fly patterns for smallmouth bass. Learn a range of fly styles and techniques proven for smallmouth bass, a wild and native species to the Midwest.

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Intermediate Fly Tying Class: Lower Wisconsin Smallmouth Flies - Wednesday,Mar 6th, 6:30 - 8:30

Join shop friend Kyle Zempel, owner of Black Earth Angling Co. as he shares some of his favorite smallmouth bugs. In Kyles words, "Join Kyle Zempel as he shows you a few of his favorite smallmouth baitfish patterns for angling in the Midwest. These patterns are designed to be presented quickly in many situations; from heavily pressured fish to those in the thickest of cover. The patterns are designed to be quick on the vise but highly effective in the water."

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Two Day Fly Fishing School In Wisconsin - Saturday and Sunday, April 27th - 28th

Join the talented instructors of Chicago Fly Fishing Outfitters on a beautiful trout stream in bucolic Southwest Wisconsin, just four hours away from Chicago, for our most comprehensive fly fishing school.

Our program enters it's 17th year and has evolved into one of the nation's finest "Introduction to Fly Fishing Schools"

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Two Day Fly Fishing School In Wisconsin - Saturday and Sunday, May 18th - 19th

Two Day Fly Fishing School In Wisconsin - Saturday & Sunday, June 8th - 9th

Two Day Fly Fishing School in Wisconsin - Saturday & Sunday, June 29th - 30th

Two Day Fly Fishing school in Wisconsin - Saturday & Sunday, September 7th - 8th