Manchester, Vermont Fly-Fishing School

In 1965 Leigh Perkins determined that there was a need for a fly-fishing school as he believed there were many people who were simply too intimidated by the sport to try it. In 1966, under the direction of the legendary Bill Cairns, Orvis opened its first fly-fishing school, a three-day affair for $75. Since then we’ve educated more than 35,000 people at Orvis schools all over the country.

Our state-of-the-art school facility is located directly across the street from the Flagship Store in Manchester, Vermont where Orvis was founded 153 years ago. Located in the Green Mountains of Southern Vermont, this is not only a magnificent place to visit, but an historic and beautiful place to learn the graceful art of fly fishing. Along with the schoolhouse, there is the Orvis Flagship store and the American Museum of Fly Fishing, all within a few yards of each other. It is truly the heart of American fly fishing. The schoolhouse is a full 6,000 square-foot facility with 4,500 square feet of interior teaching space, and 1,500 square feet of covered porch looking out toward the mountains.

Jim Lepage, Orvis Vice-President of the Rod and Tackle Division, stated, "I am extremely proud of the Orvis Fly-Fishing School House. First, because it reflects Orvis’s commitment to fly fishing and fly fishers. Second, because there is absolutely no place like it dedicated to the teaching of fly fishing. Outside, you can practice casting in the designated casting area, or relax in Adirondack chairs on the boardwalk deck. Inside, you’ll be treated to a fireplace room with a comfortable couch and chairs, and sporting art that includes works from great sporting artists such as Ogden Pleissner. The spacious classroom is appointed with hickory furniture and has a built-in video projector for teaching. The equipment room includes lockers and space to store waders, vests, and rods."

If ever there was a time to come to Vermont and learn this lifetime pursuit, it is now. You will not only learn from the best, but you will be treated to an experience in the most beautiful facility of its kind anywhere in the world, located at the birthplace of the oldest and most famous fly-fishing company in the world.

Please contact the Equinox Resort & Spa for lodging and reservations:

Equinox Resort & Spa
3567 Main Street
Manchester, VT 05254
www.equinoxresort.com
800-362-4747

Please mention you will be attending the Orvis Fly Fishing School.

Question: Do I need to buy a Vermont fishing license?

Answer - If attending the Vermont 2-Day Fly Fishing School each student will need to purchase a licenses. For student attending the 1-Day School, they do not purchase a fishing license. Vermont fishing licenses may be purchased online through Vermont Fish and Wildlife.
https://www.vtfwdsales.com/online/license.php

Question: What is the best time of year to fish?

Answer - Late April through June is when the most reliable hatches come off, but any time through the season can be good.

Question: When can we avoid black flies?

Answer - Black flies are not a problem in the Manchester area.

Question: When does the school start and end? What will we be doing during the day? How long will we be fishing?

Answer - Refer to the school itinerary for the schedule.

Question: What is included in the price of the school?

Answer - Use of Orvis fly rods/reels, leaders, flies, and where necessary waders and vests.

Question: Is lodging included?

Answer - No. Lodging arrangements are made separately by the students.

Question: Are meals included?

Answer - Lunch is the only meal included in the school tuition price.

Question: Where can I stay?

Answer - At the hosts’ lodging, or nearby lodging of your choice.

Question: How many people will be in the class?

Answer - That depends on the school. The range is 12 to 36 students, always with a ratio of one instructor for every four students.

Question: Do we stop the school because of weather?

Answer - No.

Question: How much time is spent in the classroom vs. casting and fishing?

Answer - See school itinerary on specific school page.

Question: Can you bring your own equipment?

Answer - Yes.

Question: Is this class for intermediate anglers?

Answer - Yes. In casting, we adjust our instruction to the individual student’s level.

Question: How old do my children have to be to join me in this fishing school?

Answer - At the Santa Rosa Beach School, youngsters should be at least 14 years old (because of the heavier tackle used). All other schools we recommend 12 years of age.

Question: What is the cancellation policy?

Answer - If you cancel your reservation outside of 30 days from your school date, Orvis will issue a refund back to your original method of payment. Cancellations within 30 days from your school date are subject to a 20% cancellation fee, and a refund will be issued in the form of an Orvis Gift Card. Orvis Gift Cards never expire and can be used to book your next school reservation or to purchase other Orvis product. School transfers are based on availability. Students that do not attend their scheduled school and do not notify the school reservation department will be charged in full.

Question: What other recreation is available near the school?

Answer - See information on specific school page.

Question: Will I be able to attend the same class as my son/wife/etc, even though I am an intermediate and they are a beginner?

Answer - Yes. In casting, we adjust our instruction to the individual student’s level.

Question: Are there opportunities for guided fishing afterwards?

Answer - Yes. See information on specific school page, school itinerary or inquire directly to your fly fishing school instructor.