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The Florida Keys Fly Fishing School

“I’ve been fishing in the Florida Keys for 25 years and fly fishing for the past 10 years. You, Tim, Chico, and Flip showed me some new techniques and ideas that I’ll be using every time I go fishing. I wish I had taken your class 10 years ago." – Dan Karcher

Intro

The Florida Keys Fly Fishing School has helped thousands of men and women—both newcomers and seasoned veterans—become better anglers. Now in our 35th year offering world-class fly fishing instruction in a fun and no-pressure environment, we’re proud to have developed the longest-running and most proficient saltwater fly fishing school available.

You’ll learn every aspect of saltwater fly fishing. During classroom sessions, we’ll cover tackle, including rod and reel technology, fly line selection, and essential knots. You’ll master the double-haul, learn effective false casting, line management, and how to make short quick casts. Without a doubt, the school’s greatest asset is the instructors, all of whom are recognized the world over as true authorities. You won’t find a more experienced and passionate group willing to share their personal experiences.

School sessions include two full 9-to-5 days of classroom coursework interspersed with personal casting sessions with the instructors and a relaxing lunch break on the school’s Islander Resort campus. We keep it simple and light with casting, field exercises, slide presentations, and classroom explanation. Tuition includes evening receptions with the instructors, lunches on school days, a curriculum guide, all instruction, classroom work, and the use of our equipment and training aids for casting.

You will leave the school with the skills, knowledge, and confidence that would take months or even years of trial and error to develop. Review our upcoming school dates and FAQ’s to learn more. To inquire or register for the next session, call 305-664-5423 or email us for more information. See you at the next session and tight loops!

Itinerary & Schedule

Day Activities & Lessons
Day 1
  • Fly rod, fly line, and reel selection - myths, styles, and sizing.
  • Small group casting lessons - back cast, roll cast, double haul, and more.
  • Saltwater fly fishing opportunities presentation covering the entire Southeast.
  • Lunch at Islander Resort.
  • Evening reception at Florida Keys Outfitters with instructors & students.
Day 2
  • Flies & presentation techniques.
  • Leader formulas & knot tying for saltwater applications.
  • Advanced casting techniques - line management, double haul, short-quick casts.
  • Lunch overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Fish fighting strategies, landing techniques, and boat etiquette.
Day 3-4 (Optional Fishing Days)
  • Put your newly acquired or refined skills to the test on the water.
  • Target bonefish, permit, tarpon, and other backcountry species.


What You’ll Learn

  • Tackle:
    • Fly rod action, tapers & flex – Fly Reels, proper drag setting.
    • Fly line selection, tapers, and weights.
    • Fly selection—when to use specific flies and how to induce a strike.
    • Tying strong leaders, knots, & tippets.
  • Casting:
    • Master the double haul.
    • Effective false casting.
    • Casting in the wind.
    • Short quick casts.
  • Fly Presentation & Fish Fighting:
    • Setting up the line.
    • Communicating with the guide.
    • Taking the shot.
    • The hook-up, clearing line.
    • Applying angles and pressure.


To Find Out More and Enroll

Review our FAQ’s or email us, we'd be happy to provide additional information and answer any questions. To sign up, call 305-664-5423 or register online.