Readers of the IACFB Magazine know we are big supporters of professional consultants designing their much needed down time around opportunities for earning new clients and commissions and one of such opportunities involves an exciting journey into the world of fly fishing. Fly fishing isn’t just about mastering the fly fishing techniques; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that celebrates the harmony between man and nature. For consultants and brokers seeking a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of boardrooms and client meetings, attending an Orvis fly fishing school offers a rare opportunity to reconnect with the serene beauty of the great outdoors while honing a timeless craft.
Nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes and tranquil waters, Orvis fly fishing schools beckon participants to immerse themselves in an experience that transcends mere instruction. These multi-day retreats, often hosted at idyllic lodges nestled in some of the most picturesque corners of the country, provide the perfect setting for novices and seasoned anglers alike to refine their skills under the guidance of expert instructors.
But fly fishing is more than just a sport; it’s an art form that demands patience, precision, and a deep appreciation for the rhythm of nature. As consultants and brokers trade their suits for waders and their briefcases for fly rods, they embark on a journey of discovery – not only of the intricate techniques required to lure elusive trout but also of the profound connection between angler and environment.
In the classroom, instructors impart the fundamental principles of fly casting, teaching participants to harness the power of line and lure with finesse and grace. But
it’s on the water where the true magic unfolds, as students wade into crystal-clear streams and rivers, casting their lines against the backdrop of towering mountains or whispering forests.
As the sun dances on the water’s surface and the gentle murmur of the current fills the air, time seems to stand still, offering a welcome respite from the relentless pace of modern life. In these moments of quiet contemplation, consultants and brokers find themselves fully present, attuned to the rhythms of nature and the delicate dance of fly and fish.
But perhaps the greatest lesson learned on the banks of a trout stream is the importance of patience and persistence. Like navigating the complexities of the business world, fly fishing requires dedication, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace both success and failure with equal grace.
Five Orvis Schools We Recommend
EVERGALADES SALTWATER SCHOOL: Hosted by Florida Keys Outfitters in Islamorada the Orvis Everglades Fly Fishing School is held on the historic grounds of Islander Resort and the beautiful backcountry of the Everglades. The first day of your three-day adventure will be spent with Truel Myers, Orvis Head Fly Fishing Instructor, learning fly casting techniques, tackle and fly selection, knots, hook-setting and fish fighting techniques. Truel has taught thousands how to cast a fly rod and his specialty is teaching the double haul. Days two and three will be spent on a flats skiff (two anglers per skiff) fishing with an experienced Florida Keys Outfitters guide in the Everglades targeting tarpon, redfish, or snook (or a combination of the three) depending on fishing conditions.
COMPLETE TROUT SCHOOL at FALCONS LEDGE UTAH: The lodge at Falcon’s Ledge is uniquely set privately on six hundred acres. Breath taking views of the surrounding canyon, still waters and wildlife will surely excite any angler fortunate enough to attend this school. The Guides and Staff at Falcon’s Ledge are some of the most talented, friendly and knowledgeable in the business not to mention they are great instructors as well. While you’re at the lodge you will enjoy gourmet meals made with the freshest ingredients. Spacious rooms with comfy beds and wonderful views.
MONTANA TROUT SCHOOL at HEALING WATERS: Enroll in fly-fishing school at Montana’s Healing Waters, and enjoy world-class float-fishing for trout on Blue Ribbon Rivers, including the Beaverhead, Big Hole, Madison, Jefferson, and Ruby. You’ll also have the option to wade fish on small streams through some of the most beautiful private ranches in the Rocky Mountains. At the end of each day, enjoy freshly prepared entrees with wine pairings on the lodge’s screened-in porch. The dedicated guides and lodge staff provide each guest with personal attention and hospitality that will make you want to return year after year. In this comprehensive school, you will have the opportunity to fish from drift boats or get out and wade for different species of trout, such as brown and rainbow. Learn how to catch trout in many different scenarios. You will learn how to fish with dry flies, nymphs, and streamers and learn how to read the water and select the right fly.
ORVIS STEELHEAD SCHOOL at TRAILWATER LODGE NEW YORK: Great Lakes steelhead fishing can go from challenging to incredibly rewarding in the time it takes to make a perfect swing or a drag-free drift. Orvis instructors and the expert guides at Tailwater Lodge in Altmar will help you gain the skills to optimize your time on the water. Join Orvis casting instructor Peter Kutzer and learn both single-handed and two-handed techniques to pursue one of the most prized catches in the fly-fishing world. Using Orvis’s progressive method to teaching fly casting, you will learn the skills needed for pursuing steelhead in any situation. Pete has taught thousands of people how to cast with an emphasis on making the cast easy. With the great guides and instructors at Tailwater Lodge, and the Salmon River right out your lodge door, you will be on the fast track to becoming a steelhead angler.
BAHAMAS SALRWATER SCHOOL at SWAIN’S CAY LODGE: Embark with us on a group fly-fishing trip to Andros Island, Bahamas, and enjoy Orvis-endorsed accommodations at Swaine’s Cay Lodge. We have collaborated with the Lodge to bring you the ultimate instructional experience in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. The Bahamas is one of our favorite places for flats fishing, with miles and miles of unspoiled flats, abundant numbers of bonefish, and chance encounters with permit and tarpon. You will find yourself with plenty of opportunities to catch fish while learning the nuances of saltwater flats fishing. Each school is limited to a small group size to ensure you have plenty of one-on-one time with your Orvis instructor. You’ll learn about spotting fish, casting in 360°, sight-fishing with a guide, fly selection, and much more.
A True Sport of Kings (and Queens)
As consultants and brokers return to their professional lives, they carry with them more than just memories of a peaceful retreat; they carry the lessons of the river – lessons of resilience, mindfulness, and the enduring power of the human spirit. And in the gentle sway of a fly rod and the whisper of a line unfurling, they find inspiration not only for their next cast but for the journey that lies ahead. Learning the art of fly fishing will provide you opportunities to relax and enjoy some of the most beautiful vistas provided by nature and Orvis schools are the number one training centers for this exceptional sport.