PROVIDENCE -The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announced today a series of free fly-tying workshops, beginning next week, at public libraries in Middletown, Little Compton and Portsmouth. The classes, designed for beginning and intermediate fly-tiers ages 10 and older, will cover techniques for both freshwater and saltwater fishing and will culminate in fishing events to be scheduled this spring.
Scheduled events include:
Freshwater Fly-tying: Middletown Public Library // 700 West Main Road, Middletown March 20, 27 & April 3 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Portsmouth Free Public Library // 2658 East Main Road, Portsmouth March 23, 30 & April 6 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Saltwater Fly-tying: Brownell Library // 44 Commons, Little Compton March 22, 29 & April 5 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Classes are taught by experienced anglers from DEM's Aquatic Resource Education program. All equipment and materials will be provided; however, participants are welcome to bring their own materials if desired. Space is limited and registration is required. To register, contact Scott Travers via email at Scott.travers@dem.ri.gov.
According to the Outdoor Industry Association, outdoor recreation in Rhode Island generates $2.4 billion in consumer spending and supports 24,000 jobs. As part of a larger network of recreational opportunities in the state, fishing plays an important role in connecting people with nature, promoting health, attracting tourism, and supporting a treasured tradition for Rhode Island families. According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, there are approximately 175,000 recreational anglers (age 16+) in Rhode Island. And recreational fishing contributes more than $130 million to the economy each year.
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