In Person Coaching
I’m a huge proponent of virtual coaching because I recognize that not everyone has access to a professional
fly-casting instructor where they live. Nor do most people have the means to simply fly to Sisters, Oregon to book a session with me. That said, if you are lucky enough to live near Sisters or have the means to travel here, I don’t think anything can compare to in-person coaching.
We live in the golden age of self-help. There are thousands of YouTube videos, countless podcasts, and myriad AI assistants who can help you with all things fly-casting related: from roll casting to double hauling and everything in between. Here’s the thing, though - information doesn’t equate to instruction. Information is a one-way street. Even the most sophisticated AI assistant can’t diagnose your cast in real time. Neither can it prescribe how to correct or improve your technique, nor suggest drills that are tailored to the unique way that you cast. In-person coaching provides verbal, visual, and tactile feedback on your grip, stance, and casting stroke. For now, at least, there is simply no substitute for having a professional coach at your side, examining every aspect of your cast and giving you instant feedback, instruction, and encouragement.
So, what does an in-person session with me look like? It all starts with understanding your goals. What is your current skill level? What are your short-term and long-term fly fishing goals? What specifically are you hoping to achieve in your session? Once we’ve established your objectives,
I can build a lesson plan. On the day of, we’ll meet in person, usually on a large grassy field. I’ll check your equipment and rigging, and then it’s down to business as I watch you throw some practice casts. This can be an intimidating step for many people, but it’s an important and necessary part of the process. And if it isn’t already obvious, I’m not one of those super shouty, intense instructors. I try to infuse fun into every lesson because, call me crazy, but we’re out in the fresh air, casting a fly rod - isn’t this supposed to be fun?
Once I’ve had a chance to check out your baseline cast, the real work begins. At this point, I’ll break out the digital device so we can film you. I use an incredibly powerful video analysis tool called OnForm, which features a suite of tools that allow me to measure and scrutinize every aspect of your cast, from casting angle to stroke length to loop size, and everything in between.
An important benefit of filming is that it allows you to see yourself casting - for many people, this will be the first time they see themselves casting a fly rod. We’ll review the video footage together, and I’ll diagnose your cast and offer specific corrections to your form and technique. Then it’s back to more casting, where you’ll implement any changes and adjustments. One of the great things about in-person coaching is that I get to watch you cast in real time, measuring your response to the real-world conditions. Equally, you get the chance to watch me - demoing exactly what’s expected in a good fly cast. Wrapping up our session, I’ll prescribe specific practice routines and drills that will help ingrain everything you’ve learned on the day.
Who can benefit the most from in-person coaching? Anyone at any level. Are you a complete beginner who has never held a fly rod? Maybe your spouse or partner has been begging you to join them fly fishing. I can introduce you to the sport. Are you an intermediate fly angler looking to step up to the next level? I can get you there. Are you an experienced fly angler tuning up for a guided trip? A coaching session with me is the best investment you can make to maximize your experience on the water.
One last thing - people often ask how I ended up in Sisters, Oregon. Well, let’s say it’s no coincidence there are a dozen world-class fly-fishing spots a stone’s throw from my house.
Just something to think about if you need any further justification to book an in-person session.
