Spend half a day on the Esopus Creek learning the science, art, and spirituality of fly fishing from licensed guides and lifelong anglers. In the words of the lead guide, Todd Spire, “To the souls who will commune with me on the river…we will share in a ceremony. Of the art. Of admiration. Of being both small and mighty in the face of nature. We will share awe. Please join me for fly fishing in the Catskills. You will see, or hear, or learn, or touch something amazing. Probably all of those things…and likely a wild rainbow trout will make the list.”
AWSMP is excited to offer two introductory guided fly fishing experiences this fall in collaboration with Esopus Creel. Participants will be introduced to fly fishing equipment, learn the basics of casting, and fish the Esopus Creek under the supervision of experienced and licensed guides. Stream and watershed education will provide background on why the Esopus Creek is a renowned fishery.
Todd Spire is a lifelong fisherman who has been fly fishing on the Esopus Creek since 2008. In 2017 he founded Esopus Creel, a guiding company where he offers fly fishing instruction for beginners as well as advanced casting techniques to experienced anglers. He is a board member and former Secretary of the Ashokan-Pepacton Chapter of Trout Unlimited. Todd’s photography and writing have been featured in Eastern Fly Fishing Magazine, the Orvis Fly Fishing Photo Contest, and the Poughkeepsie Journal. Esopus Creel has been featured in The New York Times.
This event is designed for beginners. Experienced anglers are asked not to apply to save space for those eager to learn.
Session #1: October 2, 9am-1pm (rain dates set for Oct 3 or 4)
Session #2: October 5, 9am-1pm (rain date set for Oct 12)
Click on the red button above to see the full application/registration process. The program is $70 per person or available at no cost for limited scholarship recipients. Payment will only be collected after review of your initial application.
This program is part of the 2024 Ashokan Watershed Conference, a series of nature-based experiences surrounding the theme Conservation Through Connection, and designed for residents of the Ashokan Watershed. Visit our website for the full schedule of events.
Ashokan Watershed Stream Management Programs are designed for residents and landowners of the Ashokan Watershed. If you are interested in participating despite meeting this criteria, please contact our event administrators.
Please leave pets at home.
Please arrive promptly so we may begin on time.
We know that things come up unexpectedly, and cancelations happen. Please be respectful of others who would like to participate, and notify our team as soon as you determine you can no longer attend. Often our events have a waitlist and we work diligently to fill all spots to the best of our ability.
Email Sophie Grant at [email protected], or call the AWSMP office at 845-688-3047 ext 100 to cancel your registration.