On the Fly: Local youth are getting on the river
Roaring Fork Conservancy/Courtesy photo
Youngsters have a world of fishing opportunities at their doorstep here in the Roaring Fork Valley, and there are a multitude of ways to get them on a local creek, river, lake, or pond. We see plenty of Basalt kids out there fishing around town, utilizing their preferred “wireless hand-held devices.” The entire fourth grade at Basalt Middle School enjoyed a day of fishing at Old Pond Park at the Roaring Fork Conservancy recently, and the RFC’s Youth Fly Fishing Clinic is underway now.
Camp attendees learn about entomology, how to cast a fly rod, gear education, knot tying, proper fish handling practices, wetland ecosystem knowledge, plus ingraining a catch-and-release ethic (and get the opportunity to fish, as well). I personally know local guides and shop employees who got their start fly fishing at this camp, and it’s pretty cool to see them come full circle and embrace the sport as a career as well as a favorite pastime.
Like skiing or playing baseball, you can always tell when someone got their start when they were younger. Everything seems effortless, with economy of motion and an air of calm. If you’re a local parent attempting to nudge your youngster towards the water, you’ve got to keep it low-pressure, safe, and fun. Plenty of local fly shops have rental gear and inexpensive rods and reels, offer kids’ camps, or can take the entire family out on the river for a day of instruction with all the gear provided.
Keep in mind that spin-fishing with conventional gear is always an option; there are only a few areas here in the valley it is not allowed — plus it can be easier to learn with a lure at first. The Roaring Fork Conservancy (in conjunction with Taylor Creek and other local outfitters and guides) offers these clinics every year, so mark your calendars next spring — they always fill up quickly.
I hope local kids realize how lucky they are to live here — if they don’t now, they sure will later!
This report is provided every week by Taylor Creek Fly Shops in Aspen and Basalt. Taylor Creek can be reached at 970-927-4374 or TaylorCreek.com.
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