We offer 1:1 and small group lessons because they offer exceptional consumer value, and the very best educational experience possible! Click here to read Large vs. Small Group Lessons
- 1-4 students per lesson
- Two or three hour max lesson time
- Best land and water locations
- Certified casting instructor
- Over 40 years fishing experience
- Over 15 years teaching/guiding
Your lead instructor:
- Professional mental health counselor, life coach, and outdoor expert
- Passed state and national criminal background checks
- First Aid, CPR, and NOLS wilderness certified
- Former New Hampshire Fish & Game fishing instructor, pro guide, and Patagonia lodge manager
A small group of friends and I took the beginner 1X casting class with Mark and we loved it! I've been fly fishing for several years and took a Groupon class at a local fly shop almost 10 years ago, but didn't learn anything close to what Mark taught us. We were all so impressed and excited to get out on the water to try out what we learned!
Mark is patient, respectful, and uses many different coaching techniques so that everyone can relate to his examples. It was a great class and I can't wait to take the next level!
D. Demery. Fort Collins, CO
1X Casting Class - On Land
"You drive for show, but putt for dough," Bobby Locke.
We focus on accuracy and presentation because 99.9% of fish caught will be within 50ft.
The 1X was designed for beginners, and/or a refresher course for more experienced anglers. You will learn vertical and horizontal plane casting, and brain-body casting biomechanics. We review rod set-up/balance, casting theory-instruction, and casting drills & skills. If you are an intermediate or advanced angler seeking to fix bad casting habits, this is your class (within minutes, I will find the errors and we'll fix them in short time - guaranteed!)
This is the best casting class in northern Colorado -- Read Client Testimonials
By the end of the class, you will be able to cast a fly onto a dinner plate at 30ft, 40ft, and 50ft - Guaranteed!
Price
$120 per hour (1:1 instruction)
$300 (1-4 students, up to 3 hours of class time)
Location: Fort Collins City Park.
NOTE: Fly rods provided or bring your own. Please bring snacks, beverage, and sun protection. Refundable deposit required for reservation, cash or e-payment options.
2X Casting Class - Water
Taught at a local pond or river. This program is 100% customized to meet your developmental needs.
Also, it has been designed for students who have completed the 1X class, and/or any advanced angler desiring in water casting and presentation instruction.
Depending on your specific needs, we'll spend time working on the following:
Single-Hand Cast: P.U.L.D., Vertical and Horizontal Plane, Static Roll and Dynamic Roll, Roll-Pick-up, Tension and Water Haul, Reach Mend, Wiggle, Pile and more.
Two-Hand Cast: Airborne and Waterborne Anchors. Switch, Snap T, Snap C, Single and Double Spey, Overhead, Basic Roll, Snake Roll and more.
Price
$160 per hour (1:1 instruction)
$400 (1-4 students, up to 3 hours of class time)
Location/Waters: Fort Collins pond or lower Poudre River (river is highly recommended).
NOTE: Fly rods provided or bring your own. Clients must bring their own wading boots and waders (wet-wading is an option during warm weather/water). Refundable deposit required for reservation, and cash or e-payment options.
Instructor Training and Mentoring
The FFI exam is challenging. Well over 50% fail on their first attempt, including many top guides. Preparation is important. Working with a qualified mentor is highly recommended.
It would be an honor to mentor you. We will focus on the following:
- Casting and oral teaching skills
- Review entire exam (written and physical)
- Practice teaching on land and in water
- Master left and right hand casting techniques
- Meet weekly, monthly, or other
- Internship: Practice teaching with me at above classes
- Fees: We will discuss in person
- Best for ages 14 and higher
Open Yearly: Monday - Sunday
By Appointment Only
Email: mfoley68@gmail.com
Mobile/Text: +1 603-315-8800