Why Choose FLYTIDE30A?

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We provide experienced passionate instruction in a fun, relaxed, and realistic environment.  We simply love what we do and it shows through the success of our students. Our patience and proven plan of instruction will have you fly casting with confidence and connected to the natural world in ways not previously imagined. It’s a dance we do with nature and we invite you to join us. Most classes are private (individual or friends & family only), but we also offer advanced instruction, corporate retreats, and seasonal group courses (call for details). 

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Where is the school located?

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169 Ansley Forest Drive

Santa Rosa Beach Florida 32459

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We are located near Scenic Hwy 30A & Hwy 331 - just minutes from the beachside communities of Seaside, Water Color, and Grayton Beach Florida. Open by appointment.

 

Can you describe the school?

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FLYTIDE30A is a saltwater fly fishing school that teaches you the art of fly casting and how to fish for large predatory marine fishes in open water environments. We can accommodate individuals or family and friends (up to six people in a group).  We do not limit your class to just the basics - it is three years or more of self taught experience distilled into a three hour class that is easily mastered. We will prepare you for a great day on the water, with or without a guide, so that you have a much improved chance of success.  

 

What can I expect?

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We provide an experienced instructor, rods & reels, casting platforms over the water (with a drink holder and line management bucket), stay-dry access to the casting platforms (50ft floating dock), a cooler (with ice, water, sports drinks, and healthy snacks), air conditioned restroom, a shaded screened area with table and chairs for learning fly patterns and fishing knots, and free parking. You will access your casting platform from a 50ft floating dock. The casting platform mimics being on the bow of a boat, out over the water, in the wind, with stationary and floating targets on the water.  Your instructor will conduct the class in waders from the water.  We do not use flies with hooks in the introductory classes.

 

What is the class schedule?

Equipment Review - description of fly rods, reels, fly line, leaders, and tippet (15 min)

 

Equipment prep and maintenance - how to make ready and maintain rods, reels, fly lines, and fly patterns (15 min)

 

Fly Casting (1 hr) - Basic casting mechanics

 

Double-Haul (30 min)

 

Fishing Techniques (30 min)

 

Fly Selection (15 min)

 

Important fly fishing knots (15 min)

 

How difficult is it to learn to cast?

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Casting a fly is not difficult for anyone interested in learning the sport. We have accommodated children as young as 5 yrs old and worked successfully with seniors. We also welcome anyone with a disability. The sport requires very little arm strength and adherence to a few basic movements with the rod. Techniques such as the double-haul require some practice, and development of muscle memory, but that happens quickly for most students in the introductory class. We can help beginners get off to a proper start and can help adjust active fishers to improve their casting accuracy and distance.

 

What should I bring to the class?

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You are welcome to bring a favorite rod and reel, but it is not necessary since we will provide one for you. We supply the very best equipment for casting lessons and all the required training materials you will need for the class. We recommend that you bring the following: 

 

1. Sunglasses or other protective eyewear

2. Sunscreen, protective hat, protective clothing

3. A light jacket and rain gear

4. A towel

5. Note taking capabilities (e.g., smart phone/pen/paper)

6. Any specific dietary needs or medications

 

Why not learn “on the fly” with a charter service?

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It definitely pays to prepare before you go. Your time on the water is short, it can be expensive, and a great guide is not necessarily a good instructor. His job is safety on the water and to put you on fish that day.  Your performance is really up to you. Casting limitations on the water can make for a bad day for both the guide and their client. Second guessing your cast should be secondary to being fishing focused when on the water. It’s important to learn how to cast effectively, and practice to be quick to a target, before you get on a boat with a guide. Learn proper casting  techniques, enjoy your day on the water, and earn the respect and attention of your guide.

 

What are the costs?

The basic three hour course is $275/person. The class runs from 8:30 AM to 11:30AM or 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.  Call or check the online calendar for open dates.

 

Deposit & Cancellation

A $150 deposit is required to book a class. This charge will be refunded entirely if the school cancels the class due to weather or a cancellation request is received in writing 15 days prior to the class. If cancellation is requested between 3 and 15 days your deposit will not be refunded. You will be charged in full if cancellation occurs within 48 hours of the scheduled class.  All cancellation requests must be confirmed by email to CaptJack@FLYTIDE30A.com.