Fly Fishing & Fly Tying Classes
Master Fly Fishing with Expert Guidance Near Portland
At our fly fishing school, we aim to equip you with the essential tools and skills to master the water and achieve success. With a diverse range of waterways near Portland, each with its own unique characteristics and “moods,” understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the perfect spot for your day of fishing.
Avoid Frustration with Expert Guidance
Days off are precious, and spending them on an out-of-season river can be frustrating. Without proper guidance, mastering all the nuances of fly fishing can be overwhelming and time-consuming. We are here to save you from years of trial and error, ensuring you fish the right waters at the right time to maximize your chances of success.
Tailored Fly Fishing Classes for All Skill Levels
We offer comprehensive fly fishing classes for anglers of all skill levels and experience. With years of experience in guiding and teaching individuals from various backgrounds, we cater to everyone—from beginners who have never touched a fly rod to seasoned anglers looking to refine their skills. Fly fishing might seem intimidating at first, but our expert instruction makes it more accessible and enjoyable than you might expect.
Accelerate Your Learning and Enjoy the Sport
Achieving “expert” status in fly fishing takes years, but you can quickly get out on the water, catch fish, and have a fantastic time. As with any hobby, you can delve as deeply into fly fishing as you wish. Our experience has shown us that even those with advanced degrees can find themselves endlessly fascinated by the sport.
Learn to Fly Fish, Tie Flies, and More
Whether you’ve always wanted to learn fly fishing, tie your own flies, or improve your skills—such as transitioning from 70′ to 100′ in spey casting—we can help. Explore our class offerings to find the best fit for your needs. We frequently update our classes based on seasons and demand, so check back often.
Class Booking and Cancellation Policy
To secure your spot in our classes, full payment in advance is required. This goes directly to our guides in the event of a cancellation. There is a $125 re scheduling fee for student cancellations. If we need to cancel the class for any reason, your payment will be fully refunded. We will cancel classes, although very rare, if the conditions are unsafe due to severe storms, high water, etc.
Discover the joy of fly fishing with expert instruction and personalized guidance. Book your class today and take your fishing skills to the next level!
- Your class includes the use of boots, waders, wading staff, rod, and reel.
- You will be introduced to basic casting techniques, fishing with dry flies, emergers, nymphs, and dry-dropper or streamer methods, along with proper fly presentation.
Disclaimer:
Fly fishing is a physically engaging activity conducted outdoors, often in remote locations. Participants should be in adequate physical condition to navigate riverbanks, wade through rivers with moderate currents, and traverse uneven riverbeds.
Fly Fishing Classes
Introduction to Trout Fly Fishing Classes Near Portland
Discover the art of trout fly fishing with our comprehensive beginner classes at The Portland Fly Shop. Our introductory fly fishing courses are designed to teach you the fundamentals of the sport, 
guided by our passionate and experienced instructors. Whether you’re a man, woman, or a youth aged 14 and over, our classes provide the essential skills to become self-sufficient on Western lakes and streams.
Why Choose Our Beginner Fly Fishing Classes?
At Portland Fly Shop, we maintain small class sizes, with a maximum of 3 anglers per guide. This ensures personalized attention and hands-on instruction, helping you gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed. Our beginner’s fly fishing lessons run from March through November, offering ample opportunity for you to learn and practice throughout the year.
Class Structure
Our class is divided into two key segments:
- Classroom Instruction (2 Hours): Held at our shop, this segment covers essential topics including fly fishing equipment, knot tying, basic entomology for fly selection, and proper river meeting points. We’ll also assist with fitting you for waders and boots if needed.
- On-the-Water Session (8 Hours): This practical segment focuses on rod rigging, casting techniques, reading the water, and advanced entomology. You’ll develop skills in casting, fishing with dry flies, and nymph fishing.
Class Locations and Scheduling
Most classes take place on the Deschutes River near Maupin, Oregon. However, we may relocate to the McKenzie River near Eugene if weather conditions necessitate it. Please note that we typically avoid the Deschutes River from mid-July to late August due to high water temperatures.
Fishing License Requirement
A valid fishing license is required for participation in our classes. You can purchase your license in advance at Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Join us at Portland Fly Shop for an enriching introduction to trout fly fishing and gain the skills you need to enjoy this rewarding sport. Book your class today and take your first step towards becoming a skilled angler!
Cost: $225.00 per person
2025 Class Dates:
In-Shop Class On-River Class Dates
03/11/25 03/14,15,16
04/01/25 04/04,5,6
04/29/25 05/2,3,4
06/24/25 06/27,28,29
07/08/25 07/11,12,13
09/09/25 09/12,13,14
09/30/25 10/3, 4,5
11/18/25 11/21, 22,23
Introduction to Euro Nymphing: Master This Effective Fishing Technique
- Explore the exciting world of European Nymphing with our specialized class designed for beginners and those looking to refine their skills. This innovative fishing technique has rapidly gained popularity due to its effectiveness, especially when traditional dry flies aren’t yielding results. Our expert instructors will guide you through the essentials of Euro Nymphing, ensuring
you gain the skills needed to enhance your angling success. - What You’ll Learn in Our Euro Nymphing Class
- Our Intro to Euro Nymphing course covers all the fundamentals of this advanced fishing method:
- Building Your Own Leaders: Learn to craft leaders tailored for Euro Nymphing.
- Fly Selection: Understand which flies work best for different conditions and how to choose them.
- Casting Techniques: Master various casting techniques to effectively present your nymphs.
- Fishing the Right Water: Discover the most effective ways to identify and fish productive waters.
This class is ideal for those new to Euro Nymphing or anglers with some experience who want to enhance their techniques.
Class Structure
- On-the-Bank Instruction: The first segment covers equipment, lines, knots, and fly selection. This portion takes place off the water to ensure a solid theoretical foundation.
- On-the-Water Session: The second segment involves practical application on the river, where you’ll practice casting, reading the water, and applying fishing techniques.
Class Details
- Location: Typically held on the Deschutes River near Maupin, Oregon.
- Duration: Approximately 6 hours.
- Objective: Equip you with the confidence and skills to apply Euro Nymphing techniques on any trout stream.
Requirements and Gear
- Basic Fly Fishing Knowledge: Recommended but not required.
- Gear Provided: Rods and lines can be supplied if needed.
What to Bring
- Wading gear (boots, waders, or wet wading gear)
- Valid fishing license
- Tippet
- Flies for use during the class
Join us for an immersive introduction to Euro Nymphing and elevate your fishing game with effective techniques. Book your class today and get ready to bring more fish to hand!
2025 Class Dates
TBA
Cost: $225.00 per person
2-Day Steelhead School at The Portland Fly Shop – Master Spey Casting and Steelhead Fishing
Join The Portland Fly Shop for our comprehensive 2-Day Steelhead School, designed for anglers eager to improve their skills in Spey fishing for Steelhead. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate angler, this course will teach you everything you need to know to confidently fish for Steelhead using a Spey rod.
Day 1: Classroom Session – Master the Basics of Spey Fishing
The first day of your Steelhead School will take place in our shop, where we’ll cover essential topics such as:
- Summer and Winter Steelhead fishing techniques
- Understanding river conditions and optimal fishing strategies
- Choosing the right equipment and flies
- Insights into Steelhead behavior and fishing tactics
This session is perfect for anglers new to Spey casting or those looking to enhance their existing skills, preparing you for success on any river.
Day 2: On-River Instruction – Hands-On Spey Casting Practice
On the second day, we’ll hit the river to apply everything you’ve learned. The specific river will be determined closer to the class date, but the focus will be on hands-on practice, including:
- Spey casting techniques: Learn foundational casts like the Roll Cast, Double Spey, and Snap T
- Water reading: Understand how to read water, identify structure, and assess the best locations for Steelhead
- Learn how to adjust for varying water levels and structure to increase your chances of success
This is also an excellent opportunity to test out different Spey rods available in our shop before making a purchase.
What’s Included:
- Boots and waders
- Wading staff
- Spey rod, reel, line, and sink tips
What’s Not Included:
- Fishing license
- Tippet and Steelhead flies
- Warm weather clothing and lunch
Why Choose The Portland Fly Shop’s Steelhead School?
Our Steelhead School is designed to give you the tools and confidence to fish effectively with a Spey rod. With expert instruction, hands-on practice, and access to top-quality equipment, you’ll leave this course ready to tackle any Steelhead river with skill and precision.
Reserve your spot today and take your Steelhead fishing to the next level!
2025 Class Dates:
$225.00 Per Person
In-shop 1/07/25 On-Water 1/11/25 or 1/12/25
In-Shop 1/15/25 On-Water 1/18/25 or 1/19/25
In-Shop 2/05/25 On-Water 2/08/25 or 2/09/25
In-Shop 2/19/25 On-Water 2/22/25 or 2/23/25
In-Shop 3/04/25 On-Water 3/08/25
The “Bridge” Steelhead Class: Master Steelheading on the Swing
Elevate your steelheading skills with our exclusive one-on-one “Bridge” Steelhead Class. This immersive 6-hour float on the Sandy or Clackamas River is designed for anglers who have some gear 
and experience but seek to refine their techniques and deepen their understanding of swinging flies for steelhead.
What to Expect
This class is tailored to help you bridge the gap between basic steelheading and advanced techniques. You’ll receive personalized instruction and gain hands-on experience with the following components:
- Spey Casting Mechanics and Rigging: Master the fundamentals of spey casting and learn the best rigging practices.
- Sink Tips and Depth Control: Discover how to use sink tips effectively and manage depth for optimal fly presentation.
- Reading Water: Develop the skills to analyze and interpret river conditions to find the best fishing spots.
- What Makes A Good Run: Identify the characteristics of a productive run and learn to target them efficiently.
- Fly Choice: Learn how to select the right flies for different conditions and steelhead behavior.
- Fly Presentations: Perfect your technique for presenting flies in a way that entices steelhead.
- High Water Tactics: Adapt your strategy for fishing during high water conditions.
- Low Water Tactics: Master techniques for low water conditions to increase your success.
Class Details
- Duration: 6 hours of one-on-one instruction.
- Location: Either the Sandy or Clackamas River.
- Focus: Swinging flies with two-handed rods, with a hands-on approach to teaching while actively fishing.
This class is perfect for those new to swinging flies or those who feel they need more comprehensive guidance to progress. By the end of the session, you’ll have the confidence and skills to approach any piece of water with a strategic mindset and efficient technique.
Prepare to Take Your Steelheading to the Next Level
If you’re ready to enhance your steelheading skills and tackle challenges with confidence, the “Bridge” Steelhead Class is your gateway to advanced techniques. Book your one-on-one session today and transform your approach to swinging flies for steelhead.
Cost: $350
To book please call or email the shop and we will put you in touch with an Instructor
Fly Tying Classes
Steelhead Fly Tying Workshops: Craft the Perfect Winter Steelhead Fly
Master the art of tying effective winter steelhead flies with our specialized workshops. Winter steelhead flies require a careful balance of profile, movement, and weight, all while ensuring ease of 
casting. Perfecting these flies often involves trial and error—discarding several before finding the perfect pattern. We understand the effort it takes to create a fly that meets all the critical criteria: stance, color, flash, and an enticing appearance.
Workshop Overview
In our hands-on Steelhead Fly Tying Workshops, you will:
- Create Perfect Dubbing Loops: Learn techniques for crafting clean and effective dubbing loops.
- Utilize Materials: Explore the use of both natural and synthetic materials for optimal results.
- Understand Weighting Options: Discover different ways to add weight to your flies while maintaining ease of casting.
- Choose Hooks: Select the right hooks to enhance the effectiveness and durability of your flies.
- Perfect Proportions: Achieve the ideal proportions for balance and attractiveness.
- Optimize Fishability: Enhance casting, sinking, and movement to make your fly irresistible to steelhead.
Instructor: Jason Osborn
Our workshops are led by Jason Osborn, a Pro Staff member of Pro Tube, Sage and Grundens ambassador, with extensive experience in teaching fly tying techniques. Jason specializes in both shanked and tube flies, with a focus on tube flies due to their versatility and durability. His expertise will guide you in creating steelhead flies that are both visually appealing and highly functional.
Workshop Details
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Focus: Tying one winter steelhead fly
- Materials Provided: All materials and tools needed for the workshop
- Class Size: Limited to 4 participants for personalized instruction
- Cost: $75 per person
- Schedule: Classes start at 3:30 PM at The Shop
Join us for an engaging and educational evening, and leave with a steelhead fly that’s ready to make its mark. Secure your spot in our Steelhead Fly Tying Workshop today and refine your skills with expert guidance.
Dec 8th – Shanked Intruders on the Ultra Rig
Jan 5th – The Dirty Hoh & Composite Loops
Jan 19th – Shanked Intruders on the Ultra Rig
Feb 2nd – The Dirty Hoh & Composite Loops
Beginning Fly Tying Classes: Learn to Tie Flies and Enhance Your Angling Skills
Unlock the secrets of fly tying with our comprehensive Beginning Fly Tying Classes. Every accomplished fly angler I’ve met has also mastered the art of tying their own flies. By learning to tie, 
you’ll gain deeper insights into the insects you’re imitating, understand how your flies behave in water, and become attuned to the life cycles of the fish’s prey. This knowledge will enhance your ability to choose the right fly and increase your success on the water.
Why Learn to Tie Your Own Flies?
- In-Depth Knowledge: Develop a better understanding of entomology, which will help you identify the differences between mayflies, caddis, and other insects. This awareness will improve your fly selection and increase your catch rate.
- Creative Control: Customize flies to any size, weight, or color variation, creating patterns that local shops may not offer.
- A Rewarding Hobby: Even when you can’t be on the water, you can stay engaged with the sport by tying flies at home, envisioning all the fish you’ll catch with your creations.
Class Overview
Our Beginning Fly Tying Class is designed for complete beginners. We provide step-by-step instruction on all the basics:
- Introduction to Tools and Materials: Familiarize yourself with the essential tools and materials for fly tying.
- Basic Techniques: Learn the fundamental techniques for tying standard trout flies that are effective in various rivers.
- Hands-On Practice: Gain hands-on experience with personalized instruction to build your confidence and skill.
Class Details
- Duration: Two-part class
- Cost: $95 per person
- Class Size: Limited to 5 participants for personalized attention
- Schedule: Starts at 6 PM at The Shop
- Materials: All tools and materials are provided. Enrolled students receive a 10% discount on fly tying materials on class days.
Enhance Your Fly Fishing Experience
Join us to start your journey into fly tying and gain valuable skills that will elevate your fly fishing game. Secure your spot in our Beginning Fly Tying Class today and enjoy a deeper connection with your craft and the fish you pursue.
2025 Dates:
Jan. 22nd & 29th
Feb. 26th & Mar 5th
Euro Nymph Fly Tying
Learn to tie some of the most effective euro flies to ever hit the water. In this class, Devon will teach you all the skills to master any euro pattern out there. 
One night crash course with a pro
Tools and materials are provided by us.
10% off Fly Tying materials for enrolled students on class day
$50 – 6 People Max – 5PM at the shop
Dates:
TBA
Spey Casting Lessons
One on One Lessons:
$100 hr / $150 for 2 Consecutive Hours
Equipment provided if needed