The Northern Michigan University Fly Fishing Club, with support from the Fred Waara chapter of Trout Unlimited, will offer free fly tying and fly casting classes on Thursdays, Jan. 28-Feb. 25. The classes are open to students, faculty, staff and community members. Equipment and materials will be provided.

An introductory event will be held at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 24, in room 140 of the Physical Education Instructional Facility (PEIF). After a gourmet meal, participants will be introduced to the classes, learn some skills and receive the class and outing schedule for the semester.

The Thursday evening classes will be held at 8 p.m. in PEIF 140 and a nearby gym. They will be split between fly tying, taught by Tom Gabler, and casting, taught by “Coach” Herb Grenke.  

“Tom is a master at fly tying and a gifted instructor whose classes are fun, informative and simple,” said Grenke. “I’ve had the opportunity to travel to some of the finest fly fishing destinations in the world, catching everything from trout to tarpon. You could pay as much as $200 for a fly tying class and $500 for fly casting instruction. These are free because Fred Waara Trout Unlimited is providing equipment, materials and volunteer instructors. The classes will help make time on the water extra enjoyable, whether someone is a beginner or veteran.”

Advance registration is appreciated for the introductory event and classes. To register or for more information, contact Grenke at hgrenke@nmu.edu or 249-9180.