Many have seen the movie A River Runs Through It.
Or, many have passed by a river and seen a figure in the water with fly pole in hand, and have wondered about the art and sport of fly fishing.
Through its upcoming events, the local Trout Unlimited club would like to introduce the folks of Montezuma County to the sport of fly fishing. People will see that the sport is easy to learn, as well as therapeutic, and a great way to spend time in the outdoors. Brad Waltman, the Education Chairperson of the Trout Unlimited, Dolores River Anglers, will be leading several educational events throughout the summer. Through their many years of experience and enjoyment, the members of the Dolores River Anglers want to educate the community and youth to teach them a sport that can become a lifelong pastime and passion.
The Dolores River Anglers of Trout Unlimited, with the cooperation of the Parks and Recreation Department of the City of Cortez, will be hosting their third annual free fly fishing clinics and fishing derby on Tuesday, June 12, at Parque de Vida. The day will begin at 9 a.m. with the youth clinics. The youth will learn about gear, casting and knot tying.
There will be a presentation of entomology by Leigh Gillet, of Colorado Parks and Wildlife. This free clinic will be available for up to 40 youths, who need to preregister at the Cortez Recreation Center. The youth clinic will go until 11:30 a.m. Fly rods will be provided, but people are encouraged to bring their own.
The free adult classes will start at 1:30 p.m., and will be suited for beginners to intermediates. There are only 12 slots open for adults, so preregistration is required at the rec center. It is recommended that people bring fly rods to the clinic, but they will also be provided. Adults will be learning through hands on experience of casting and tying knots. Proper fly fishing gear will also be discussed.
The free fishing derby is open to the public and will start at 6 p.m. Valid methods of fishing allowed are bait, lures and flies. Parks and Wildlife will stock the pond at Parque de Vida with trout and all fish caught, must be kept. A cleaning station will be provided to clean fish. The derby is a great opportunity to bring friends and family, and enjoy an evening of free fishing. A Colorado fishing license is not required at the derby.
This year, the Dolores River Anglers is chaired by Sam Perry. On Aug. 14, the Dolores River Anglers will host its first banquet. For questions on the banquet, please contact Dale Smith at 759-3020.
For any questions about the clinics, derby or the Dolores River Anglers, please contact Waltman at 759-0715.
