Fly Fishing Courses

Courses

At Ballyhass Lakes we promote fly fishing and encourage participation for all ages.  Assistance is always available from the fishery staff who will advise on fly selection, preparation of the leaders and basic casting at any time.

In addition we hold one day fly fishing courses.  Many are presented by Glenda Powell who regularly gives excellent courses on a Saturday or Sunday.  Glenda is Ireland best know instructor and is the current World female distance casting champion.  She is also one of the most highly qualified instructors currently working in Ireland. 

One Day Courses
The one day course is limited to a maximum of 8 participants, and is very practical orientated.
A complete handbook of invaluable notes is given to each participant. The course covers all the basics:

•    Rod and line preparation
•    How to prepare a leader and dropper, essential knots
•    Fly life cycles, fly selection and seasonal factors
•    Casting theory and practice

Most of the second part of the course is spent practicing fly-casting with one to one supervision from Glenda. Once the principles are established on the lawn, all participants then go fishing accompanied by Glenda. 

All equipment is supplied for the course. As most of the course is conducted outside, participants should come prepared for an outdoor day with waterproof clothing. For safety reasons, please bring a hat and prescription glasses or sun glasses for eye protection.

Advanced Courses
Some courses are for advanced anglers where further casting techniques, such as roll and Spey casting is taught.

Workshops
In March of each year Ballyhass lakes host a weekend of training and workshops from some of the best anglers in Ireland and the UK.   On a Saturday and Sunday clinics are held by many of the leading instructors on all aspects of fly fishing.  There are fly tying demonstrations, equipment trials, and meetings with journalists from the Irish angler.  This very successful formula will continue on an annual basis.

Juvenile Courses
Juvenile courses are also held on demand usually on Saturday mornings.  These combine and introduction to fly fishing with plenty of time on the water. the Duration is usually about 3 hours and suitable for participants aged between 11 and 16.