Pacemaker Fishing Forum

This is the largest outdoor fly fishing event in the country, it's held on the banks of an actual trout stream, and each spring it introduces thousands of new and experienced fly anglers to the joys of the quiet sport.

If you're ready to take your fly casting to the next level, then be sure to purchase a slot in our expanded paid casting classes this year. The cost is $100, and classes last approximately 2.5 hours. Only 10 students will be allowed in these classes, which are first come, first serve. Nationally known fly anglers Bob Clouser and Ed Jawarowski are the expert casting instructors. Morning classes run from 8:30 until 11:00; afternoon classes run from 1:00 to 3:30 both Saturday and Sunday.

These casting classes are sponsored by Temple Fork Outfitters, will be held rain or shine, and allow each student individual time with one of these expert instructors.

Students may bring their own rods; Temple Fork Outfitters can provide students with rods, but advanced notice is required. These classes are tailored to each student's specific needs, and the price includes free admission to the festival on the day of the class.

Don't miss Saturday night's Festival Foundation Dinner, an exclusive buffet dinner that includes a selection of prime rib, chicken, vegetables, soft drinks, dessert, and tip ($50 per person). It is here that we spell out our conservation vision for Virginia and announce our "Virginia Fly Angler of the Year." This is a great place to rub elbows with legends in the sport like Lefty Kreh, meet fly fishing industry leaders and fellow anglers, and get to know our sponsors from around the country.

The dinner will be held at the Waynesboro Country Club; the dress code is business casual (no tie required). A special dinner raffle will be held for dinner guests only. A cash bar is available, cocktails begin at 5:30, and dinner starts at 6:30.

Finally, consider picking up some raffle tickets now. General raffle tickets are $5 and give you the chance to go home with fly rods, reels, specialty fly lines, artwork, clothing items, specialty Virginia wine, a weekend getaway at a local B&B, or even a guided half-day trip. This year's grand prize is a $1,000 gift certificate from Orvis. Grand Prize raffle tickets are $20 each; only 500 will be sold. You do not have to be present to win the Grand Prize.

A full day's admission to the Virginia Fly Fishing Festival is only $15 and includes free wine tastings for those 21 and older. Weekend passes are only $25; they allow you to roam the festival grounds for the entire weekend and take in as many of our free lectures and classes as possible. Free beginner casting classes sponsored by Orvis and free women-only casting classes will also be offered this year. There's no time like the present to get that special Christmas gift so what are you waiting for?