IT’S THE 5th ANNUAL
TRWD FLYFEST
Fort Worth, Texas
SATURDAY, March 14
9:00AM - 5:00PM
ADMISSION IS FREE
Whether you are an experienced angler or have never touched a fly rod, this fun day in and along the Trinity River in Fort Worth has something to hook everyone in the whole family. To create an optimal angling experience, the Tarrant Regional Water District (TRWD) will release 1,800 lbs. of Rainbow Trout in the festival location in addition to the nearly 3,000 Texas native fish stocked annually.
LET US LURE YOU IN
CHECK OUT THIS AMAZING VIDEO HIGHLIGHTING THE EVENT!
WHAT WE HAVE PLANNED THIS YEAR
- Orvis Big Trout Contest
- Casting Demos
- Fly Tying Lessons
- Expert Presentations
- Women's Casting
- Cooking Demos
- Food Trucks
- Rock Climbing Wall
- Wine & Craft Beer
- Corn Hole
- Kid Fish Area
- And Open Fishing
Talks, Tips & Tutorials
Hear from top anglers as they cover a diverse range of topics including, fly fishing Texas destinations, fishing on the Trinity River, fly fishing for striper and more. Presentations generously sponsored by the R4 Foundation
All presentations will take place inside Acme Brick Room #1
9 - 9:50 AM
The historic Republic of Texas spanned from the current Texas border, northward into New Mexico, Colorado, and even Wyoming. This unique presentation will take you on a fly fishing journey that begins in the heart of the Texas hill country and winds up in the high country of Colorado, with numerous stops along the way. Chris will show you how to chase local species in small Texas streams and creeks, then will teach you how to take those same tactics to the high elevations of Colorado and New Mexico in pursuit of native cutthroat trout! Fishing the creeks of central Texas is an excellent way to hone your trout creek skills before heading out West. One of the largest mistakes fly anglers make when fishing Texas’ numerous creeks, is that they fail to fish them as carefully as they would a western trout stream. So, from Rio Grande Cichlids to Rio Grande Cutthroat, this presentation will help you tie all the techniques together, and might just inspire you to fly fish the Republic of Texas in a brand new way!
Chris Johnson
Chris is the owner and founder of Living Waters Fly Fishing, a fly shop and guide service based out of Round Rock, Texas. He has guided the Texas Hill Country for over a decade, and has fly fished the heart of the state for 20 years. Chris has been a licensed guide in Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, and Alaska. Chris is an IFFF Certified Casting Instructor, Umpqua Signature Fly Designer, Tenkara USA Guide, and TPWD Angler Educator. He is also a pro team member for Whiting Farms, Scott Fly Rods, and Scientific Anglers. Chris is dedicated to sharing his passion for the sport and investing in the next generation of fly anglers. He often is a featured presenter/fly tier at fly fishing, outdoor, and community events throughout the state.
Chris and his shop have also been featured in several outdoor publications including Trout magazine, Garden and Gun, and Tenkara Magazine. He was also awarded the 2014 Man of the Year from the IFFF Texas Council and in the same year, Living Waters was the recipient of the IFFF’s prestigious Lee Wulff Award.
In addition to fly fishing, Chris is passionate about film and photography. He co-produced the short film “Unspoken,” in an effort to raise awareness for Rio Grande Cutthroat trout conservation. As a result, Living Waters is working with Trout Unlimited as a Gold Level endorsed TU Business to restore Rio Grande Cutthroat throughout their native range.
Chris is happily married to his wife Emily and together they enjoy running the fly shop, fly fishing the world, and raising their children in the sport.
10 - 10:50 AM
This presentation will begin with a beginner-friendly introduction to fly fishing that will cover equipment, basic rigging and techniques by Stephen Woodcock. The second half of the presentation will be given by Russell Husted and will focus on Fly Fishing the Trinity. Russell will show you that our very own river is an amazing fishery for BIG Bass along with buffalo, gar, striped bass and more. Explore the environmental quality and recreational opportunities that the Trinity has to offer in this presentation
Russell Husted
Russell is a past President of the Texas Council IFFF and Fort Worth Fly Fishers. Russell spends most of his spare time fishing Texas Rivers and targets BIG Bass. He is an avid fly tier, focusing on simple patterns that are proven to do the trick. Russell loves urban bass fishing and enjoys spending time doing seminars and working with the youth.
Stephen Woodcock
Stephen has fly fished for over 25 years. His passion for fly fishing has taken him to the Caribbean, Europe, Australia, North America, Canada and he has guided in Colorado, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas. Stephen has lived in Fort Worth for the past 27 years. Stephen has been President, Vice President and speaker chairman for the Fort Worth fly fishers and loves to fly fish anytime he can. He is the Fly Fishing Manager at the Orvis Fort Worth store.
11am – 11:50am
Learn about a location to fish for each month of the year. Presentation will cover location, directions, species of fish, and techniques to catch the fish.
Brett Delk
Brett works for the Orvis Company as Store Manager of the new Fort Worth location. Before becoming Store Manager at Fort Worth, Brett was the fishing manager of the Southlake location where he taught hundreds of newcomers how to fly fish and tie flies. He also hosted trips throughout the country as well as locally. Brett has nearly 30 years fly fishing experience having fished in Canada, Mexico, Belize, Bahamas, and all over the U.S.
12pm – 12:50pm
From the hills to the sea, tips and tricks to help you catch more fish DIY while Flyfishing closer to home.
Frank Smethurst
Frank was introduced to fishing at the age of two, he started tying his own flies at age seven and at the age of twelve, began work at an influential Atlanta tackle shop.
Some notable programs that Frank has been featured in include: Jim and Kelly Watt’s Flyfishing Video Magazine, The Reel Guys, Fishing with Micah Adams, Frank’s Fishing Problem, and Trout Unlimited’s On The Rise. He has also produced and starred in feature films: Running Down The Man, and Eastern Rises, with Felt Soul Media, and Carpland with RA Beattie.
Frank has competed and placed and/or won at OLN’s Flyfishing Masters, The Conejos Superfly, The Denver Carp Slam, The Teva Mtn Games, The GoPro Games, The Caddis Cup, The Frostbite Fish Off and The Dos Mosca.
Frank now live is Telluride, has his own fly pattern, and has released a collection with Montana Fly Company.
1-1:50 pm
Coming soon.
Alvin Dedaux
Alvin Dedeaux has been fishing ever since he can remember, fly fishing since he was twelve-years-old. His love for fishing has led him on an exciting journey, which cultivated him as Central Texas’ premier fly fishing guide. Alvin has been fishing Central Texas River’s since the early 80s.
After managing the Austin Angler over a decade, Alvin began guiding full time. Alvin also guides the central Texas coast for redfish on the fly. Alvin is an Orvis endorsed Fly Fishing guide and has more than 20 years of experience.
2-2:50 pm
Learn the particulars to fly fishing the Lone Star State’s dynamic nearshore saltwater: the species, the seasons, the locations, the gear and the tactics.
Stacy Lynn
The sport of Fly Fishing has been central in Stacy’s life since 1995. Stacy has managed several of Texas’ best fly shops since that time and is an avid saltwater and freshwater angler. She has 20+ years as a professional casting coach and is a Fly Fishers Intl. Certified Casting Instructor and a graduate of Joan Wulff’s Fly Fishing Instructor’s School. She is an active supporter and member of many of the Texas fly fishing clubs and related organizations. She is a volunteer Lead Instructor for Texas’ Casting for Recovery program – a weekend fly fishing retreat for women surviving breast cancer – and has been a co-organizer for the Lydia Ann Fly Master’s saltwater fly fishing tournament benefiting CfR. She has been a feature speaker, demonstrator and instructor at numerous events including The Fly Fishing Show, The Shallow Water Show, Fly Fish Texas, Flat Out Fishing!, TPWD Expo, Oktoberfisch, the Houston Fishing Show, Texas Fly Fishing and Brew Fest, and several FFF Conclaves/Fairs. Her favorite fly fishing endeavor to date is sight casting in saltwater, especially to Redfish from her own poling skiff, and Tarpon and Permit in tropical destinations. And her instruction specialties are conducting casting diagnostics, and helping fly casters prepare for the challenging and exciting Saltwater Fly Fishing experience.
3 – 3:50pm
Learn about the exciting fly fishing opportunities at the nation’s top freshwater striper fishery, Lake Texoma, only an hour north of the metroplex. Steve will discuss fly fishing opportunities at Lake Texoma and more including a general description of the fishery, angling strategies through the seasons, appropriate gear, and the future of the fishery.
Steve Hollensed
Steve is a full time Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide and Professional Casting Instructor who owns and operates Flywater Angling Adventures. An FFI Master Casting Instructor, he runs an active schedule of casting lessons, classes, and schools. Steve is also an active member of the FFI Casting Board of Governors, serving as Co-Chairman of the Test Committee, a member of the Examiner Review Committee, is an EDP faculty member, and is a Lever 2 Examiner. Steve hosts fly fishing trips throughout the Americas including Montana, British Columbia, Belize and Patagonia. He received the FFI Mel Krieger Award in 2015 and is a two-time finalist for “Orvis Fly Fishing Guide of the Year”.
Learning To Tie
All presentations will take place inside Acme Brick Room #2
In addition to the structured lesson, there will be other fly tying observations taking place in Acme Brick Room #2. Feel free to come and go and mingle around the room to learn about various tying patterns
9-9:50 AM
Join Matt for an in-depth look our native fish species as I tie a handful of flies and discuss variations of each applicable for any kind of predatory fish you may come across.
Matt Bennett
Matt Bennett is a full-time commercial fly tyer and the owner of Fly Geek Custom Flies. While having a varied interest in many different types of fly fishing, Matt most enjoys both tying flies and fishing for the native bass species of the Texas Hill Country, and most of his flies were created to fool these specific quarry. However, most of Matt’s patterns have a broad universal appeal to fish species all over, and he very much enjoys sharing his tying and fishing knowledge with others. Matt is a member of the Umpqua Feather Merchants Signature Fly Designer program, and his initial pattern, Bennett’s Lunch $, is available in fly shops all over the country. Matt currently serves as the Conservation chair and Past President of the Austin Fly Fishers, the Vice President of the Texas Council FFI and was awarded the 2015 Charles E. Brooks Memorial Award by the International Federation of Fly Fishers.
10-10:50 AM
Mike will demonstrate how to tie realistic fly patterns, designed for show cases and classic English patterns.
Mike Morphew
Mike Morphew has been fly fishing for trout, salmon and saltwater fish for over 50 years. He tied his first fly aged 13, caught a trout on it and was “hooked”. He has been fascinated with tying “ultra-realistic” insects for 15 years. In 2003 he was asked to create a salmon fly display for Her Royal Highness Princess Anne. All of his flies and realistic imitations are hand tied and mounted for the best presentation. Mike lives in La Grange, Texas,is on the board of the Austin Fly Fishers Club and is a gold award FFI fly tyer.
11-11:50am
Texas Fly Patterns You Should Never Be Without Fly fishing the Texas hill country is a way of life for Chris Johnson. His fly fishing journey began in central Texas and as a result, he has developed a number of patterns that have proven themselves throughout the state. In this fly tying demonstration Chris will tie several of his patterns that deserve a permanent spot in every Texas fly angler’s box. These flies consistently get the job done and can produce results even in the toughest of conditions. Chris will teach you how to tie each fly in step-by-step fashion and will answer any questions you have about the tying process. Come and learn how to tie these essential patterns and learn how to fish them in the Lone Star State!
Chris Johnson
Chris is the owner and founder of Living Waters Fly Fishing, a fly shop and guide service based out of Round Rock, Texas. He has guided the Texas Hill Country for over a decade, and has fly fished the heart of the state for 20 years. Chris has been a licensed guide in Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, and Alaska. Chris is an IFFF Certified Casting Instructor, Umpqua Signature Fly Designer, Tenkara USA Guide, and TPWD Angler Educator. He is also a pro team member for Whiting Farms, Scott Fly Rods, and Scientific Anglers. Chris is dedicated to sharing his passion for the sport and investing in the next generation of fly anglers. He often is a featured presenter/fly tier at fly fishing, outdoor, and community events throughout the state.
Chris and his shop have also been featured in several outdoor publications including Trout magazine, Garden and Gun, and Tenkara Magazine. He was also awarded the 2014 Man of the Year from the IFFF Texas Council and in the same year, Living Waters was the recipient of the IFFF’s prestigious Lee Wulff Award.
In addition to fly fishing, Chris is passionate about film and photography. He co-produced the short film “Unspoken,” in an effort to raise awareness for Rio Grande Cutthroat trout conservation. As a result, Living Waters is working with Trout Unlimited as a Gold Level endorsed TU Business to restore Rio Grande Cutthroat throughout their native range.
Chris is happily married to his wife Emily and together they enjoy running the fly shop, fly fishing the world, and raising their children in the sport.
12-12:50 pm
Chironomids, midge, buzzers… whatever you like to call them, they are very effective flies for catching fish in all types of water. Chironomids come in many sizes and colors They have evolved into one of the largest and most diverse of all insect orders. Capable of incredibly dense populations chironomids or midges have more species than all other aquatic insects combined. Capable of surviving in a diverse range of habitats and conditions chironomids are found in bogs, lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, salt water marshes even sewage treatment ponds. This demonstration will show how to tie a common Chironomid and a Buzzer.
Dutch Baughman
Dutch is a retired CEO of the Division 1A Athletic Directors’ Association. He is an avid fly fisherman and is a member of the Board of Directors for several organizations including Fly Fisher’s International, Fly Fishing Learning Center, Fly Fishing Skills Resource Area and the Lower Mountain Fork River Foundation. He frequently works as a demonstration fly tier at fly fishing expos and festivals. He has conducted weekly fly tying classes at Bass Pro Shop in Grapevine, Texas for over twenty years and teaches the Fly Fishing Skills class at the Tarrant County College-Northeast campus.
1-1:50 pm
The “Stimulator” pattern is a widely used attractor pattern for trout and local warm water fish. The pattern originated in the eighties as a stonefly pattern but has turned out to be a very good searching pattern for fly fishers. Barry will tie the Stimulator pattern and discuss color and material options.
Barry Webster
Barry Webster is a Mechanical Engineer by education who is retired after a long career with IBM. He currently is involved with multiple positions with various Fly Tying organizations. These include the Ft. Worth Fly Fishers, Dallas Fly Fishers (Board Trustee) and the Texas Council of the Fly Fishers International (Membership Director). Barry is a frequent demonstration fly tier at events such as the FFI International Fair (Boise, ID last year, Livingston, MT in 2017), Sowbug Roundup and Southern Council Fair in Mountain Home Arkansas and the Red River Rendezvous in Sherman Texas. Barry is also a member of the Grapevine Roadkill Roundtable Fly tying group.
2-2:50 pm
The Mickey Finn Fly was originated in Canada in the late 1800’s. The Mickey Finn name was penned in the 1930-1940 time frame. It was named after a “drugged” or “spiced” drink called a Mickey when a couple outdoor writers went fishing and decided the fly was as dangerous to the fish as the “Mickey” was to humans. There are a few variations to this fly and it is a good fly everywhere for bass, trout, salmon and sea bass
Kyle Hand
Kyle Hand is a fly tier based out of Fort Worth, but his work is highly regarded and sought out worldwide. He started tying flies in Colorado in 1981 and tied commercially for over 25 years. He has tied for shops and vendors throughout the mountain west, Arizona, and Texas, as well as the Orvis Company. Kyle currently spends most of his time tying Classic Salmon, Bass, Wet flies and Streamers as well as tying at many shows and Expositions around the United States. He also is a member of the Grapevine Roadkill Roundtable. Kyle is a retired Train Dispatcher for the BNSF Railroad and lives in Fort Worth. The fly he is going to tie is one he has invented, Susie’s Damsel. This fly has caught fish all over the United States. His philosophy on the fly is if there are Damselflies flitting about on the water, it’s time to tie one on. It is a dry fly and has been very effective in this area for trout, bream and bass. It also confused an 8-pound catfish on one occasion. He will be demonstrating two ways to tie this fly.
Learn From The Best
Watch first-hand as experts demonstrate an array of skills and techniques for every skill level.
Bring your own rod and cast along, use a limited number of loaner rods that will be available on site the day of the event or simply relax and observe the demonstrations.
All demonstrations will take place on the grassy lawn between Acme Brick and the Trinity River.
Casting Classes
9:00am – 9:50am
A women’s class on the fundamentals of casting and techniques for improvement. Open to women of any experience level age 8 and up (participants ages 8 – 13 must be accompanied by a parent/responsible adult). Bring your own equipment or use equipment provided.
Stacy Lynn
The sport of Fly Fishing has been central in Stacy’s life since 1995. Stacy has managed several of Texas’ best fly shops since that time and is an avid saltwater and freshwater angler. She has 20+ years as a professional casting coach and is a Fly Fishers Intl. Certified Casting Instructor and a graduate of Joan Wulff’s Fly Fishing Instructor’s School. She is an active supporter and member of many of the Texas fly fishing clubs and related organizations. She is a volunteer Lead Instructor for Texas’ Casting for Recovery program – a weekend fly fishing retreat for women surviving breast cancer – and has been a co-organizer for the Lydia Ann Fly Master’s saltwater fly fishing tournament benefiting CfR. She has been a feature speaker, demonstrator and instructor at numerous events including The Fly Fishing Show, The Shallow Water Show, Fly Fish Texas, Flat Out Fishing!, TPWD Expo, Oktoberfisch, the Houston Fishing Show, Texas Fly Fishing and Brew Fest, and several FFF Conclaves/Fairs. Her favorite fly fishing endeavor to date is sight casting in saltwater, especially to Redfish from her own poling skiff, and Tarpon and Permit in tropical destinations. And her instruction specialties are conducting casting diagnostics, and helping fly casters prepare for the challenging and exciting Saltwater Fly Fishing experience.
10 - 10:50 AM
Have you ever had your line tangle, fail to unroll or fall short of a target? These undesirable results, and others, are most likely caused by a casting fault. While there are several essentials in fly casting that result in a successful cast, there are many deviations from these essentials that cause problems. Come and observe a demonstration of common casting faults and their corrections that will improve your casting and enjoyment of the sport.
Bob Garber and Steve Hollensed
As a young boy, Bob began fishing the ponds, lake and rivers of northeast Oklahoma with family. He first picked up a fly rod in 1973 and for the last 15 years the fly rod has been his only choice in fishing. He has fly fished for warm, cold and salt water species across much of the western United States, Tennessee, North Carolina, Alaska and The Bahamas. Bob became an International Federation of Fly Fishers Certified Casting Instructor in 2010 and a Master Certified Casting Instructor in 2014. He also holds the positions of Education Director with the Fort Worth Fly Fishers Club and an Angler Education Instructor with the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department.
Steve is a full time Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide and Professional Casting Instructor who owns and operates Flywater Angling Adventures. An FFI Master Casting Instructor, he runs an active schedule of casting lessons, classes, and schools. Steve is also an active member of the FFI Casting Board of Governors, serving as Co-Chairman of the Test Committee, a member of the Examiner Review Committee, is an EDP faculty member, and is a Lever 2 Examiner. Steve hosts fly fishing trips throughout the Americas including Montana, British Columbia, Belize and Patagonia. He received the FFI Mel Krieger Award in 2015 and is a two-time finalist for “Orvis Fly Fishing Guide of the Year”.
11-11:50 am
Fly casting is all about control and efficiency. Whether you are a beginner or have been fly fishing for years, bring your favorite rod and reel and have your cast analyzed by Master Certified Casting Instructors who will offer advice on becoming a more controlled and efficient caster. This session is to address any concerns you may have about your casting success and to increase your enjoyment of the sport.
Bob Garber and Steve Hollensed
As a young boy Bob began fishing the ponds, lake and rivers of northeast Oklahoma with family. He first picked up a fly rod in 1973 and for the last 15 years the fly rod has been his only choice in fishing. He has fly fished for warm, cold and salt water species across much of the western United States, Tennessee, North Carolina, Alaska and The Bahamas. Bob became an International Federation of Fly Fishers Certified Casting Instructor in 2010 and a Master Certified Casting Instructor in 2014. He also holds the positions of Education Director with the Fort Worth Fly Fishers Club and an Angler Education Instructor with the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department.
Steve is a full time Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide and Professional Casting Instructor who owns and operates Flywater Angling Adventures. An FFI Master Casting Instructor, he runs an active schedule of casting lessons, classes, and schools. Steve is also an active member of the FFI Casting Board of Governors, serving as Co-Chairman of the Test Committee, a member of the Examiner Review Committee, is an EDP faculty member, and is a Lever 2 Examiner. Steve hosts fly fishing trips throughout the Americas including Montana, British Columbia, Belize and Patagonia. He received the FFI Mel Krieger Award in 2015 and is a two-time finalist for “Orvis Fly Fishing Guide of the Year”.
12-12:50 pm
A women’s class on the fundamentals of casting and techniques for improvement. Open to women of any experience level age 8 and up (participants ages 8 – 13 must be accompanied by a parent/responsible adult). Bring your own equipment or use equipment provided.
Stacy Lynn
The sport of Fly Fishing has been central in Stacy’s life since 1995. Stacy has managed several of Texas’ best fly shops since that time and is an avid saltwater and freshwater angler. She has 20+ years as a professional casting coach and is a Fly Fishers Intl. Certified Casting Instructor and a graduate of Joan Wulff’s Fly Fishing Instructor’s School. She is an active supporter and member of many of the Texas fly fishing clubs and related organizations. She is a volunteer Lead Instructor for Texas’ Casting for Recovery program – a weekend fly fishing retreat for women surviving breast cancer – and has been a co-organizer for the Lydia Ann Fly Master’s saltwater fly fishing tournament benefiting CfR. She has been a feature speaker, demonstrator and instructor at numerous events including The Fly Fishing Show, The Shallow Water Show, Fly Fish Texas, Flat Out Fishing!, TPWD Expo, Oktoberfisch, the Houston Fishing Show, Texas Fly Fishing and Brew Fest, and several FFF Conclaves/Fairs. Her favorite fly fishing endeavor to date is sight casting in saltwater, especially to Redfish from her own poling skiff, and Tarpon and Permit in tropical destinations. And her instruction specialties are conducting casting diagnostics, and helping fly casters prepare for the challenging and exciting Saltwater Fly Fishing experience.
1-1:50 pm
Have you ever had your line tangle, fail to unroll or fall short of a target? These undesirable results, and others, are most likely caused by a casting fault. While there are several essentials in fly casting that result in a successful cast, there are many deviations from these essentials that cause problems. Come and observe a demonstration of common casting faults and their corrections that will improve your casting and enjoyment of the sport.
Bob Garber and Steve Hollensed
As a young boy began Bob began fishing the ponds, lake and rivers of northeast Oklahoma with family. He first picked up a fly rod in 1973 and for the last 15 years the fly rod has been his only choice in fishing. He has fly fished for warm, cold and salt water species across much of the western United States, Tennessee, North Carolina, Alaska and The Bahamas. Bob became an International Federation of Fly Fishers Certified Casting Instructor in 2010 and a Master Certified Casting Instructor in 2014. He also holds the positions of Education Director with the Fort Worth Fly Fishers Club and an Angler Education Instructor with the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department.
Steve is a full time Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide and Professional Casting Instructor who owns and operates Flywater Angling Adventures. An FFI Master Casting Instructor, he runs an active schedule of casting lessons, classes, and schools. Steve is also an active member of the FFI Casting Board of Governors, serving as Co-Chairman of the Test Committee, a member of the Examiner Review Committee, is an EDP faculty member, and is a Lever 2 Examiner. Steve hosts fly fishing trips throughout the Americas including Montana, British Columbia, Belize and Patagonia. He received the FFI Mel Krieger Award in 2015 and is a two-time finalist for “Orvis Fly Fishing Guide of the Year”.
2- 2:50pm
Fly casting is all about control and efficiency. Whether you are a beginner or have been fly fishing for years, bring your favorite rod and reel and have your cast analyzed by Master Certified Casting Instructors who will offer advice on becoming a more controlled and efficient caster. This session is to address any concerns you may have about your casting success and to increase your enjoyment of the sport.
Bob Garber and Steve Hollensed
As a young boy began Bob began fishing the ponds, lake and rivers of northeast Oklahoma with family. He first picked up a fly rod in 1973 and for the last 15 years the fly rod has been his only choice in fishing. He has fly fished for warm, cold and salt water species across much of the western United States, Tennessee, North Carolina, Alaska and The Bahamas. Bob became an International Federation Of Fly Fishers Certified Casting Instructor in 2010 and a Master Certified Casting Instructor in 2014. He also holds the positions of Education Director with the Fort Worth Fly Fishers Club and an Angler Education Instructor with the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department.
Steve is a full time Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide and Professional Casting Instructor who owns and operates Flywater Angling Adventures. An FFI Master Casting Instructor, he runs an active schedule of casting lessons, classes, and schools. Steve is also an active member of the FFI Casting Board of Governors, serving as Co-Chairman of the Test Committee, a member of the Examiner Review Committee, is an EDP faculty member, and is a Lever 2 Examiner. Steve hosts fly fishing trips throughout the Americas including Montana, British Columbia, Belize and Patagonia. He received the FFI Mel Krieger Award in 2015 and is a two-time finalist for “Orvis Fly Fishing Guide of the Year”.
Beginning Casting Classes
9am – 9:50am
A Co-ed class introducing a basic Pick-Up-and-Lay-Down cast for first time fly casters. Other basic skills will be covered as time allows. No equipment or experience required. Open to all new fly fishers age 8 and up (participants ages 8 – 13 must be accompanied by a parent/responsible adult).
Certified Casting Instructor
10am – 10:50am
A Co-ed class introducing a basic Pick-Up-and-Lay-Down cast for first time fly casters. Other basic skills will be covered as time allows. No equipment or experience required. Open to all new fly fishers age 8 and up (participants ages 8 – 13 must be accompanied by a parent/responsible adult).
Certified Casting Instructor
11:00am – 11:50am
A Co-ed class introducing a basic Pick-Up-and-Lay-Down cast for first time fly casters. Other basic skills will be covered as time allows. No equipment or experience required. Open to all new fly fishers age 8 and up (participants ages 8 – 13 must be accompanied by a parent/responsible adult).
Certified Casting Instructor
12:00pm – 12:50pm
A Co-ed class introducing a basic Pick-Up-and-Lay-Down cast for first time fly casters. Other basic skills will be covered as time allows. No equipment or experience required. Open to all new fly fishers age 8 and up (participants ages 8 – 13 must be accompanied by a parent/responsible adult).
Certified Casting Instructor
1:00pm – 1:50pm
A Co-ed class introducing a basic Pick-Up-and-Lay-Down cast for first time fly casters. Other basic skills will be covered as time allows. No equipment or experience required. Open to all new fly fishers age 8 and up (participants ages 8 – 13 must be accompanied by a parent/responsible adult).
Certified Casting Instructor
2:00pm – 2:50pm
A Co-ed class introducing a basic Pick-Up-and-Lay-Down cast for first time fly casters. Other basic skills will be covered as time allows. No equipment or experience required. Open to all new fly fishers age 8 and up (participants ages 8 – 13 must be accompanied by a parent/responsible adult).
Certified Casting Instructor
3:00pm - 5:00pm
Come in and cast on your own.
On The Water Casting Classes
10am – 10:30am
Learn how to catch a trout on the Trinity while also learning both American and European techniques
Frank Smethurst
Frank was introduced to fishing at the age of two, he started tying his own flies at age seven and at the age of twelve, began work at an influential Atlanta tackle shop.
Some notable programs that Frank has been featured in include: Jim and Kelly Watt’s Flyfishing Video Magazine, The Reel Guys, Fishing with Micah Adams, Frank’s Fishing Problem, and Trout Unlimited’s On The Rise. He has also produced and starred in feature films: Running Down The Man, Eastern Rises, with Felt Soul Media, and Carpland with RA Beattie.
Frank has competed and placed and/or won at OLN’s Flyfishing Masters, The Conejos Superfly, The Denver Carp Slam, The Teva Mtn Games, The GoPro Games, The Caddis Cup, The Frostbite Fish Off and The Dos Mosca.
Frank now lives in Telluride and has his own fly pattern and has released a collection with Montana Fly Company.
1:30pm – 2:00pm
Learn how to catch a trout on the Trinity while also learning both American and European techniques
Frank Smethurst
Frank was introduced to fishing at the age of two, he started tying his own flies at age seven and at the age of twelve, began work at an influential Atlanta tackle shop.
Some notable programs that Frank has been featured in include: Jim and Kelly Watt’s Flyfishing Video Magazine, The Reel Guys, Fishing with Micah Adams, Frank’s Fishing Problem, and Trout Unlimited’s On The Rise. He has also produced and starred in feature films: Running Down The Man, Eastern Rises, with Felt Soul Media, and Carpland with RA Beattie.
Frank has competed and placed and/or won at OLN’s Flyfishing Masters, The Conejos Superfly, The Denver Carp Slam, The Teva Mtn Games, The GoPro Games, The Caddis Cup, The Frostbite Fish Off and The Dos Mosca.
Frank now lives in Telluride and has his own fly pattern and has released a collection with Montana Fly Company.
2:15pm-2:45pm
Learn how to catch a trout on the Trinity while also learning both American and European techniques
Frank Smethurst
Frank was introduced to fishing at the age of two, he started tying his own flies at age seven and at the age of twelve, began work at an influential Atlanta tackle shop.
Some notable programs that Frank has been featured in include: Jim and Kelly Watt’s Flyfishing Video Magazine, The Reel Guys, Fishing with Micah Adams, Frank’s Fishing Problem, and Trout Unlimited’s On The Rise. He has also produced and starred in feature films: Running Down The Man, Eastern Rises, with Felt Soul Media, and Carpland with RA Beattie.
Frank has competed and placed and/or won at OLN’s Flyfishing Masters, The Conejos Superfly, The Denver Carp Slam, The Teva Mtn Games, The GoPro Games, The Caddis Cup, The Frostbite Fish Off and The Dos Mosca.
Frank now lives in Telluride and has his own fly pattern and has released a collection with Montana Fly Company.
3:00-3:30pm
Learn how to catch a trout on the Trinity while also learning both American and European techniques
Frank Smethurst
Frank was introduced to fishing at the age of two, he started tying his own flies at age seven and at the age of twelve, began work at an influential Atlanta tackle shop.
Some notable programs that Frank has been featured in include: Jim and Kelly Watt’s Flyfishing Video Magazine, The Reel Guys, Fishing with Micah Adams, Frank’s Fishing Problem, and Trout Unlimited’s On The Rise. He has also produced and starred in feature films: Running Down The Man, Eastern Rises, with Felt Soul Media, and Carpland with RA Beattie.
Frank has competed and placed and/or won at OLN’s Flyfishing Masters, The Conejos Superfly, The Denver Carp Slam, The Teva Mtn Games, The GoPro Games, The Caddis Cup, The Frostbite Fish Off and The Dos Mosca.
Frank now lives in Telluride and has his own fly pattern and has released a collection with Montana Fly Company.
Friendly Fishing Challenges!
Flex your competitive muscle with these great fishing challenges.
10am - 4pm
Participants will sign up for a chance to cast at targets, with the most accurate caster winning a prize.
Contest will be ran and judged by the Fort Worth Fly Fishers
10am - 4pm
Participants will sign up to see who can cast the farthest distance to win a prize.
Contest will be ran and judged by the Fort Worth Fly Fishers
11AM-4:30PM
Sign up to compete to catch the biggest trout or the most fish in the time allotted to win the great prizes. This contest will take place on the water and appropriate attire will be necessary. Fishing license required and musts sign up as a team. Registration coming soon.
Tasty Tips
FWISD culinary programs at Polytechnic High School and North Side High School will be providing cooking demonstrations throughout the day.
11-11:30AM
Description:
Sausage, sautéed vegetables, eggs, potatoes and cheese served in grilled tortillas
Presenter:
Fort Worth ISD North Side High School Culinary Arts Program and Polytechnic High School Culinary Arts Program
At Polytechnic High School, they are proud of their history and excited for their future. The Culinary Arts program is one of the best in the city, offering students exposure to many aspects of the hospitality industry. Their curriculum is designed for those wanting to learn the “art” of cooking as well as for those wanting to prepare themselves for the diverse opportunities Fort Worth’s growing culinary community has created. Anything is possible at Poly, because Poly is the place to be!
Love to cook? North Side High School Culinary Arts has a state-of-the-art facility which includes two demonstration kitchens, seating for 150, two production kitchens and quality professional restaurant equipment. This program offers students hands-on participation in organizations and community events as well as giving students the opportunity to participate Dual Credit culinary arts classes.
12-12:30PM
Description:
Vanilla batter topped with fruit filling and baked over an open fire
Presenter:
Fort Worth ISD North Side High School Culinary Arts Program and Polytechnic High School Culinary Arts Program
At Polytechnic High School, they are proud of their history and excited for their future. The Culinary Arts program is one of the best in the city, offering students exposure to many aspects of the hospitality industry. Their curriculum is designed for those wanting to learn the “art” of cooking as well as for those wanting to prepare themselves for the diverse opportunities Fort Worth’s growing culinary community has created. Anything is possible at Poly, because Poly is the place to be!
Love to cook? North Side High School Culinary Arts has a state-of-the-art facility which includes two demonstration kitchens, seating for 150, two production kitchens and quality professional restaurant equipment. This program offers students hands-on participation in organizations and community events as well as giving students the opportunity to participate Dual Credit culinary arts classes.
1-1:30PM
Description:
Sausage, sautéed vegetables, eggs, potatoes and cheese serviced in grilled tortillas.
Presenter:
Fort Worth ISD North Side High School Culinary Arts Program and Polytechnic High School Culinary Arts Program
At Polytechnic High School, they are proud of their history and excited for their future. The Culinary Arts program is one of the best in the city, offering students exposure to many aspects of the hospitality industry. Their curriculum is designed for those wanting to learn the “art” of cooking as well as for those wanting to prepare themselves for the diverse opportunities Fort Worth’s growing culinary community has created. Anything is possible at Poly, because Poly is the place to be!
Love to cook? North Side High School Culinary Arts has a state-of-the-art facility, which includes two demonstration kitchens, seating for 150, two production kitchens and quality professional restaurant equipment. This program offers students hands-on participation in organizations and community events as well as giving students the opportunity to participate Dual Credit culinary arts classes.
2-2:30PM
Description:
Vanilla batter topped with fruit filling and baked over the open fire
Presenter:
Fort Worth ISD North Side High School Culinary Arts Program and Polytechnic High School Culinary Arts Program
At Polytechnic High School, they are proud of their history and excited for their future. The Culinary Arts program is one of the best in the city, offering students exposure to many aspects of the hospitality industry. Their curriculum is designed for those wanting to learn the “art” of cooking as well as for those wanting to prepare themselves for the diverse opportunities Fort Worth’s growing culinary community has created. Anything is possible at Poly, because Poly is the place to be!
Love to cook? North Side High School Culinary Arts has a state-of-the-art facility which includes two demonstration kitchens, seating for 150, two production kitchens and quality professional restaurant equipment. This program offers students hands-on participation in organizations and community events as well as giving students the opportunity to participate Dual Credit culinary arts classes.
Lots of fun, for everyone!
TRWD Flyfest has something for everyone. Between a rock-climbing wall for the kids and wine and craft beer for the adults the festival will feature more than rods and reels.
Activities
Local Craft Beer
Enjoy a cold beer from local breweries including Martin House Brewing Company, Panther Island Brewing and Wild Acre Brewing Company
Wines
Enjoy a wine tasting or wine by the glass from Texas Wineries including Bull Lion Ranch and Vineyards, OG Cellars and Pemberton Cellars
Live Music
Enjoy your favorite tunes by local artist Deric Merrill
Food Trucks
Refuel with delicious local eats Acadia Crawfish, Gepetto’s Pizza, Boar-B-Que and Rollin’ Stone
Face Painter
Keep the kids entertained with a fun free activity
Kid Fish Tank
Stocked tank full of fish set up on the lawn with a limited number of kid-sized poles set up for fishing opportunities!
Rock Climbing Wall
Great for kids or those just young at heart
Open Fishing
Bring your own rod and fish along the banks of the Trinity, bait and fly anglers welcome. Fishing license required
Tarrant Regional Water District's Watershed Experience Trailer
TRWD’s Environmental Division will demonstrate river health and function, and how it applies to anglers and citizens from a landscape-level perspective. You’ll also be able to check out the inside of our Watershed Experience Trailer and learn about where your water comes from.
Vendors
Backwoods
Local outdoor outfitter Backwoods offers clothing, equipment, and adventure trips around the world and will be on site with a variety of fly fishing gear for sale.
Fatties on the Fly
Fatties brings you files that have been selected by anglers that fish on your local water every day. Stop by their booth to learn more about their monthly boxes.
Fort Worth Fly Fishers
FWFF is a club of men, women and young adults who have a shared interest in fly fishing. Members have varying degrees of expertise in the sport and are eager to learn and teach as they continue to develop their skills.
Orvis
With over 160 years in business, Orvis is the premier retailer of flyfishing, wingshooting, and outdoor products. Orvis designs and develops products and experiences which provide the knowledge and expertise to enable more meaningful moments in nature. Stop by their booth and let them get you ready for your next adventure.
Texas Council of Fly Fishers International
The Texas Council is a council of the International Federation of Fly Fishers with the mission to promote, conserve, educate and fly fish the waters in the great state of Texas!
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Fisheries Management in DFW
Stop by the fishery management booth to learn about their programs and check out their electrofishing boat and sampling nets.
Texas Reel Recovery
Texas Reel Recovery offers free fly fishing retreats for men who have survived through various stages of cancer.
Where To Find Us
The festival will take place in and along the rippling waters of the Clear Fork of the Trinity River located near the intersection of Bryant Irvin Road and River Park Drive.
$5 PARKING
Parking is located at:
River Park Trailhead3100 Bryant Irvin Rd.
Fort Worth, TX 76109 TAKE THE TRINITY TRAILS
Walk or ride your bike to the event using the Trinity Trails. Bike parking will be available. Remember to bring your bike lock, we are not responsible for lost or stolen bikes.
Presented By
Champion
Sponsors
Supporting
Sponsor
In-Kind
Sponsors
Calling All Volunteers!
TRWD is in need of volunteers to help make TRWD Flyfest the best year yet. Volunteer opportunities include working the contest registration tables, monitoring presentation rooms, assisting with the kid’s fish tank and other similar tasks depending on the need. If interested in volunteering, please click the button below to fill out the Volunteer form.
TRWD FLYFEST IS ON!
TRWD Flyfest is on! A soggy week can’t stop all the trout-tactic fun to be had. The event, fishing and all, will being at 10:00 am Saturday, March 11!