If you’ve ever wondered how to cast a fly or catch that trophy trout, then you’re in luck. Fly fishing is becoming increasingly popular throughout the country and Virginia is home to some of the best fly fishing waters.

Many popular resorts offer fly-fishing clinics and guided tours to teach the novice fly fisher or challenge the most seasoned angler. Virginia also offers experienced instructors and guides for other fly-fishing expeditions.

To explore fly fishing in a family fun environment, check out the Virginia Fly Fishing Festival each April. It's the largest festival of its kind in the country.

The Omni Homestead

Fly fishing is offered year round on the 4-mile long Cascade Stream that runs through the Cascades Gorge near The Omni Homestead. The newcomer or experienced angler can participate in fly casting clinics in the Orvis Fly-Fishing School and tours offered by Orvis-endorsed guides. Two-hour to full-day packages include stream permit, all rental equipment, and guide service.  Float Fishing is a unique form of fly-fishing that allows two anglers along with a guide to experience several miles of beautiful river without having to hike and wade all day. Anglers should plan for a full day of fishing and fun. Lunch is included

Guides teach casting techniques, fly selection, stream entomology, how to chose the right gear and essential knots. And all packages include use of Orvis rod, waders, vest, fishing license and stream pass - all the items needed for a perfect day of fishing! 

Wintergreen Resort

From initial instruction on Lake Monocan to full day fishing trips on the James River, Wintergreen Resort offers many types of fly fishing experiences. Students can learn how to fish at The Fly-Fishing School based on the Orvis Progressive Method to Fly Casting. All students use Orvis fly rods and equipment.

Primland Resort

Primland Resort utilizes the expertise of Orvis-trained guides to offer guided fishing trips and fly casting and fly fishing lessons. To stock up on gear or apparel guests may visit the Orvis Dealer Pro Shop which is stocked with a large selection of flies. Anglers may also rent Orvis rods and obtain fishing licenses.

Other Fly Fishing Instruction by Region

Blue Ridge Highlands | Central Virginia | Virginia Mountains
Shenandoah Valley | Chesapeake Bay | Southern Virginia

Blue Ridge Highlands

 Willis -  Greasy Creek Outfitters provides guided trips for wild trout on the Dan River and other streams in Southwest Virginia. Accommodations are provided.

Abingdon - The Virginia Creeper Trail Fly Shop offers fly fishing lessons and guided trips. 

Central Virginia

Syria - Rose River Farm offers fly fishing for Rainbow Trout, strictly catch and release. By reservation only.

Concord - Rockcliffe Farm is located on 275 secluded acres, more than 5 miles of lovely, private hiking trails, and beautiful riverfront access for fishing, swimming, canoeing, picnics, and camping.

Virginia Mountains

Covington -Escatawba Farms is home of Dunlap Creek, a freestone stream that runs in between wooded mountain sides and fenced pasturesEscatawba is the Native American word for “clear, running water.” That’s exactly what you’ll find here. And with it, some of the most spectacular fly-fishing in the world. Located in Alleghany County, Virginia.

Shenandoah Valley

 Edinburg -  Murray's Fly Shop is a must-stop for all your fishing needs. Fly fishing school available with advanced reservations.

Harrisonburg -  Mossy Creek Fly Fishing is a privately stocked stream for unequaled opportunities to learn where the fish are and how to present the fly to them. Classes are available as well as guided fly-fishing trips, full- or half-day.

 Waynesboro - South River Fly Shop is your source for fly fishing equipment and information in the Shenandoah Valley. They teach fly casting and fly tying, plus offer guided fishing trips.

Lexington -  VA Trout is John Roberts, a wily veteran guide. Trips available for novice, intermediate and expert fishermen. A streamside lunch is provided on all day trips. Learn the basics of casting, knots, equipment, entomology, safety and other skills to become a proficient angler.

Luray -  Page Valley Fly Fishing Service offers personalized, guided catch and release fly-fishing trips for people of all experience levels. All flies, leaders and shore lunch are included. Instruction is provided as needed.

Staunton -  Wild Mountain Trout Fly Fishing and Mountain Guide features instruction for novices and on-stream guide services for anglers of all levels.

Chesapeake Bay

Gloucester -  Bay Fly Fishing, LLC provides guided fly and light tackle fishing charters and eco-tour / sightseeing trips on the Chesapeake Bay of Virginia.

Southern Virginia

Martinsville -  Smith River Outfitters offers fishing trips on the Smith River in Henry County.

 

See Fish Virginia First for a whole host of other opportunities.