Skip to content

Fly-fishing class returns to Glenbow Ranch

The spring sunshine provides the perfect conditions to learn the art of fly-fishing. The Glenbow Ranch Park Foundation, Cochrane Environmental Action Committee and Bighill Creek Preservation Society are teaming up for a fly-fishing school.
Cast off
For the fifth year in a row, The Glenbow Ranch Park Foundation, Cochrane Environmental Action Committee and Bighill Creak Preservation Society are offering fly-fishing classes June 15, 16, 22 and 23.

The spring sunshine provides the perfect conditions to learn the art of fly-fishing. The Glenbow Ranch Park Foundation, Cochrane Environmental Action Committee and Bighill Creek Preservation Society are teaming up for a fly-fishing school. “It is a very relaxing sport,” said head instructor Ken Stevenson. “In Alberta, we have an abundance of lakes and rivers, you just have to follow the regulations of the province. “It’s really very simple…and a life hobby.” The one-day classes will be offered June 15, 16, 22 and 23. Stevenson said one class is all you need to learn introductory-level skills and obtain information on how to continue with the sport. Adult-oriented classes are offered June 15 and 22, while a class geared towards youth aged eight to 13 will be available June 16 and 23. “We’ve seen them (for) younger (kids) before, but they’re just a bit too young,” Stevenson said. The classes will start with a morning session at 9 a.m., where Stevenson will provide an in-class look at fly-fishing, showcase flies and equipment, provide information on what sort of fish can be caught and teach the fundamentals of the sport. In the afternoon, the class will head down to Mitford Pond in Cochrane, where students will put the lessons to work and enjoy a hands-on experience with fly-fishing. Students will be going after the pond's stock of rainbow and brown trout. “After the course, all they have to do is practice,” Stevenson said. The cost for a session is $120 for adults and $75 for kids. Registration can be found online at grpf.ca In addition to the class, participants will receive a manual to take home, to help further their understanding of the sport. Due to limited resources, there are only a few spots available for the classes, and Stevenson suggests participants register as soon as possible. He said no prior knowledge of fishing is necessary, but an Alberta Fishing License is required. Fishing licenses can be purchased online at albertarelm.com or at local retailers such as Canadian Tire. The class has been offered for the past five years, and Stevenson said he has seen steady interest in fly-fishing since the first classes were offered.

push icon
Be the first to read breaking stories. Enable push notifications on your device. Disable anytime.
No thanks