2/2/05

Bass Lake Offers Fly Fishing and Retriever Programs
Manager Hopes Low-Cost Programs Draw Locals, Outdoor Enthusiasts

Have you considered getting a retriever but were unsure of how to select a puppy or what to expect? Have you ever considered getting into fly fishing but were unsure of what equipment to purchase or how to get started? While introductory programs on selecting and training retrievers and getting hooked on fly fishing typically cost hundreds of dollars, Bass Lake Park is offering the same programs at a reduced cost.

“The goal out of these seminars is to gauge interest in the community and see if there is enough interest to offer a year-long series of programs,” said Scott Barnard, Bass Lake Park manager. “We're providing these high-quality programs for a low cost to give people an introduction.”

The retriever training workshop is Saturday, Feb. 12, noon-4 p.m., and costs $40 per person, which includes lunch from the Bass Lake Draft House. Advance registration is required by noon on Friday, Feb. 11, by calling Bass Lake Park at (919) 557-2496.

“The program will cover everything from puppy selection to training techniques to goals people have for retrievers,” Barnard said.

He added that the program will be relevant to retrievers trained for both field trials and hunting, and will also discuss differences between retriever breeds. Instructor Mel Miller, a local fishing and hunting guide with more than 20 years of experience, will bring his retriever for demonstrations and will introduce some basic training techniques.

Fly fishing programs will be held Feb. 19 and March 19, from 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Instructor Kirk Burns, a.k.a. Big Wally, is a local fishing guide with years of experience who also volunteers at Bass Lake Park and is a member of Trout Unlimited. The fly fishing programs are appropriate for both individuals and families. Advance registration is required.

The Feb. 19 program costs $85. The program will cover different species that can be caught by fly fishing and different parts of the fly fishing rod. Hands-on instruction in fly casting and knot tying will be given.

The March 19 program focuses on tying flies and also costs $85. Materials will be provided, and participants will take home the flies they create. An overview of insect life cycles and fish behavior also will be given.

For additional information or to sign up for a program, call Bass Lake Park at (919) 557-2496.

Town of Holly Springs - PO Box 8 - 128 South Main Street - Holly Springs, NC 27540 - (919) 552-6221 - Holly.Springs@hollyspringsnc.us