Pacific Angler’s 2014 Fishing Courses

The team at Pacific Angler is humbled and excited by the success of our fishing courses we hosted in 2013 and previous years.  For anyone out there that has coached, taught, motivated, inspired just one person in helping them have success in an area they are passionate about you will understand how we feel.

We get as excited as our students when, either during a course or in a subsequent fishing trip they take the knowledge we have shared and apply it so that they catch their first coho on the fly, salmon while beach fishing, trout on a chironomid or any fish on a fly they tied themselves!  We get emails, phone calls or visits to the store and it truly makes our day.

In 2014 we are taking our courses to another level.  While we are continuing with our regular staple of courses, we have taken input from our customers and from internal brainstorming sessions and we will be announcing additional “Feature Courses” for the 2014 season.  Here is a quick teaser on some of the new feature courses we are currently working on:

– Spey Casting: You will learn “The Modern West Coast Skagit Style” of spey casting for salmon & steelhead.
– Single Hand Casting: Beginner & advanced casting lessons taking you from single haul casting to double haul and taking the mystery out of the perfect cast.
– From Water to Plate: How to preserve your catch from the moment you land your fish to seasoning, prepping and cooking a meal fit for a king!
– Frame the Moment: How to take that fish of a life-time and creatively capture it with a picture worthy of the moment while safely releasing the fish to live and fight another day!

Stay tuned as we will release full details on the new feature courses once we have finalized the dates and completed structure for each course.  Each course will be instructed by industry leading experts in their professions such as Aaron Goodis and Josh Wolfe.

Should the teaser above piqued your interest please contact Bryce at Pacific Angler to get your name on the advanced reservation list for the feature courses.  You can reach Bryce at the store 604.872.2204 or Bryce@pacificangler.ca

PACIFIC ANGLER 2014 COURSES

Click on link to download 2014 Courses PDF or continue reading to view on our blog.

Customer Referral:

“I can’t say enough good about this shop, excellent range of equipment with knowledgeable staff with expertise in many types of fishing, be it salt water, freshwater, bait, fly or any combination. They are always friendly and willing to give advice and helpful direction. If you feel you want to try something a little new, check out their courses.

I was surprised how much there was to learn and how well the course and subsequent guided day on the river was put together. I would have no hesitation recommending this shop, the fishing courses and guided trips to friends and family.”

Ian C. – Jan, 2013

INTRODUCTORY COURSES

INTRODUCTION TO FLY FISHING

Class Size: 12

This course was specifically designed to give the new fly fisher the basic knowledge, casting skills and fly fishing strategies to effectively fish our local BC waters. This course is comprised of two sessions; 3hr evening seminar and a 3hr casting session.   The dates below show the seminar date first and casting date second.

Cost: $125.00
Dates:  (Feb 12 & 16), (Mar 19 & 23), (Apr 7 & 13), (May 20 & 25), (Jun 3 & 8), (Jul 8 & 13), (Aug 12 & 17), (Sept 23 & 28) and (Oct 14 & 19)
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm
Casting Time(s): 10am – 1pm or 2pm – 5pm

INTRODUCTION TO FLY FISHING LAKES

Class Size: 20

This course will give you an in-depth look at the of fly fishing lakes. We explore equipment, techniques, major insect hatches and ideal lakes to begin with. You will learn all you need to plan your next successful lake trip to one of BC’s 5,000 lakes!  This course is comprised of one 3hr evening seminar.

Cost: $45.00
Dates:  Apr 23 or May 6
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

Customer Referral:

Hi Jason

Please will you convey my appreciation to Matt for last night’s workshop on “Intro to Fly Fishing Lakes”.  I learned a great deal and look forward to the next workshop.  Maybe now I can finally start fishing in Canada.

Kind regards

Eden J. – May, 2013

INTRODUCTION TO CHIRONOMID TECHNIQUES – Trevor Welton

Class Size: 20

Chironomids are the number one food source for trout in BC’s lakes; however, few anglers have taken the time to become true masters of this discipline.  Those that do are often rewarded with the largest fish.  Trevor is a former member of the Canadian Fly Fishing Team and an excellent chironomid angler. Dedication to his sport has helped Trevor become one of the top fly fishermen in the province as well as a fisheries biologist working for Dillon Consulting.  This course is comprised of one 3hr evening seminar.  Content is for beginner to advanced.

Cost: $45.00
Dates:  Apr 16, Apr 29 and May 7
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

INTRODUCTION TO FLY FISHING TROUT STREAMS

Class Size: 20

Stalking trout on mountain streams defines fly fishing. In this course we will teach you the fundamental techniques for fly fishing trout streams; dry fly fishing, nymphing, and streamer fishing.  This course will get you as close to being Brad Pitt (River Runs Through It) as you will ever be! This course is comprised of one 3hr evening seminar.

Cost: $45.00
Date:  June 18
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

Customer Referral:

Matt,

Thank you for a very well presented lecture on “Fly Fishing Streams”. Well thought out, well planned, very well executed. A lot of work went into this class as does into all of the other presentations that you do that I have had the pleasure to attend.

I will be into the shop to get the information on fly selection for our local streams and all that I can pick out of you about the Skagit and Birkenhead Rivers.

Regards,

Andy R.  – June, 2013

FLY TYING COURSES

INTRODUCTION TO FLY TYING

Class Size: 7

There is no greater satisfaction than catching a fish with a fly you tied yourself.  This course was specifically designed to give you the fundamental skills needed to tie proven fly patterns used here in BC for trout, salmon, and steelhead. This course consists of 3 sessions; each session is 3hrs.  Students are required to supply their own vise, tools and materials.  A 10% discount is available on materials and tools purchased for the course.

Cost: $75.00                       
Dates:  (Jan 21, 28 & Feb 4), (Apr 8, 15 & 22),  (Jun 9, 16 & 23) and (Sep 8, 15 & 22)
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

TYING BEACH FLY PATTERNS – Andre Stepanian

Class Size: 7

Join Pacific Angler for a 3hr evening seminar of tying flies specific to catching salmon on our coastal beaches.  Without a doubt, fly selection is critical while beach fishing. These flies are often not commercially available, so successful beach anglers learn to tie their own patterns.  Your instructor will walk you through each fly pattern step-by-step.  This course is suitable for fly tiers with a basic knowledge. Students are required to supply their own vise, tools and materials.  A 10% discount is available on materials and tools purchased for the course.

Cost: $40.00
Dates:  Jun 10 or Jun 17
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

TYING CHIRONOMID FLY PATTERNS

Class Size: 7

80% of a trout’s diet consists of chironomids whose patterns vary from lake to lake. This 3-hour evening seminar will teach you how to tie a variety of the most effective chironomid patterns used in BC’s world-renowned lakes.   You will finish this course understanding the very specific technical aspects ranging from beads, ribbing, colors, and body shapes.  Students are required to supply their own vise, tools and materials.  A 10% discount is available on materials and tools purchased for the course.

Cost: $40.00
Date:  Apr 30
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

TYING EPOXY FRY PATTERNS

Class Size: 7

Epoxy fly patterns were developed here on the west coast to capitalize on the large fry emergence every spring.  Pacific Angler will help you unlock the secrets to applying epoxy, which can be a very tricky material to work with.  During the course your instructor will teach you how to imitate the different salmon fry species, the different methods to shaping bodies, adding eyes, and other important techniques.  Course is suitable for intermediate/advanced tiers.  Students are required to supply their own vise, tools and materials.  A 10% discount is available on materials and tools purchased for the course.

Cost: $40.00
Dates:  Mar 4 or Mar 26
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

TYING INTRUDER FLY PATTERNS

Class Size: 7

This course is designed for those that are interested in tying steelhead flies in the “Intruder style”.  This style of fly is extremely productive for steelhead and salmon due to its profile and movement in the water.  During this two night (5hr total instruction) tying series, you will learn the very specific techniques and unique materials used to tie this fly.  This course is suitable for intermediate to advanced tiers.  Students are required to supply their own vise, tools and materials.  A 10% discount is available on materials and tools purchased for the course.

Cost: $45.00
Dates:  (Jan 14 & 15)  (Feb 17 & 18)  (Nov 4 & 5)
Time: 7pm – 9:30pm

TYING JIGS FOR STEELHEAD & SALMON

Class Size: 7

The use of jigs for catching steelhead and salmon is not a new idea; however, in the last few years we have seen a revolution on our local rivers. Fisherman using had tied jigs are accounting for record numbers of steelhead!  Join us around the tying tables and learn how to tie jigs for steelhead and salmon!  If you have never thought of making your own lures don’t feel intimidated, Pacific Angler will help you with each step. For those who have lots of experience we will hone your skills and show you the tricks that make jigs the choice of top rods across the Lower Mainland. Students are required to supply their own vise, tools and materials.  A 10% discount is available on materials and tools purchased for the course.

Cost: $40.00
Date:  Jan 22
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

RIVER COURSES

FALL SALMON RIVER FISHING:  FLOATS, SPINNERS, & SPOONS

Class Size: 20

This 3hr evening seminar covers float fishing, spinner fishing and spoon fishing; the three most productive techniques to catch BC salmon in a river.  Upgrade your seminar to include a fully guided day on the water, putting into practice your new knowledge with a Pacific Angler guide.

Seminar Only Cost: $45.00
Seminar & Guided Walk’n Wade Cost:  $400 for one person or $500 for two people
Dates:  Seminar on Sep 17.  Guided trip dates are flexible.
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

FLY FISHING FOR COHO IN RIVERS – Andre Stepanian

Class Size: 6

Catching a coho salmon on the fly in BC’s many coastal rivers is a bucket list item for any fly fisherman. Our course is designed to educate you on the very specific techniques used to catch coho salmon on the fly in the Lower Mainland.  After your 3hr evening seminar you will then put the skills into practice during a fully guided day on the water.

Cost: $245.00
Dates:  Seminar on Oct 15           Guided Oct 18 or 19
Seminar on Oct 21           Guided Oct 25 or 26
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

FLY FISHING EGG PATTERNS

Class Size: 8

This course is designed to teach you the secrets to one of the most productive presentations in the BC fly fishermen’s arsenal; nymphing egg patterns.  This deadly method can be used for different species of trout, char, and salmon.  During a 3 hour evening seminar we will teach you key concepts, strategies, and gear that will give you a well-rounded foundation during the seminar portion of the class.  Then you will put those skills into practice during a fully guided day on the water.

Cost: $225.00                                      
Dates:   Seminar on Jan 8.             Guided Jan 11 or 12 (2 SPOTS LEFT!)
Seminar on Nov 18.         Guided Nov 22 or 23
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

FLY FISHING FOR SALMON IN RIVERS – Andre Stepanian

Class Size: 8

Fly fishing for salmon is one of the most exciting fisheries in the Lower Mainland. Let us teach you the techniques and the hot spots to catch salmon on the fly in our local rivers.  In the 3hr evening seminar you will learn about rod, reel and line, sink tip, and fly selection.  Then put the skills into practice during a fully guided day on the water where you will learn how to read water and swing the fly!

Cost: $225.00
Dates:   Seminar on Oct 1              Guided Oct 4 or 5
Seminar on Oct 28           Guided Nov 1 or 2
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

FLY FISHING FOR SEARUN CUTTHROAT TROUT IN RIVERS – Andre Stepanian     Class Size: 8

This spring make sure to get out and take advantage of the world-class cutthroat fishing in the Lower Mainland.  This cutthroat course is designed to educate you on the life cycle, location, seasonal feeding habits, and successful techniques and flies used to catch these elusive yet aggressive fish.  This course consists of a 3hr evening seminar and a fully guided day on the water

Cost: $225.00
Dates:   Seminar Mar 12          Guided Mar 15 or 16
Seminar Mar 18          Guided Mar 22 or 23
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

 SALTWATER COURSES

MASTERING LOCAL SALTWATER SALMON FISHING

Class Size: 8

Over 50 million salmon migrate past Vancouver annually.  Learn how to catch these fish with a Pacific Angler. This course offers an in-depth look at the local saltwater scene. We cover the local saltwater salmon fishing for the entire year, showing you the how, when, and where. This course includes a 3hr evening seminar and a fully guided day on the water in one of our Grady Whites with guide Jason Tonelli.

Cost: $250.00                                    
Dates:   Seminar Apr 9                    Guided Apr 12 or 13
Seminar Apr 28                  Guided May 3 or 4
Seminar May 21                 Guided May 24 or 25
Seminar Jun 4                    Guided Jun 7 or 8
Seminar July 2                   Guided July 5 or 6
Seminar Aug 6                   Guided Aug 9 or 10
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

Customer Referral:

Hi Jason,

I just wanted to thank you again for an incredible day fishing and sharing all your knowledge with us during the “Master the Local Saltwater Salmon Fishing Course”. It was amazing how much info there was. I am busy at work and just dying to get out again. It’s driving me nuts.  I can’t stop going back and looking at the photos!  Obsessed just a bit!

Maybe I’ll see you at the shop when I stock up on the right stuff!

Cheers

Joe Campo (the chef from the Westin Bayshore)

FLY FISHING ON BEACHES

Class Size: 20

This single evening 3hr seminar will cover the basic principles needed to be an effective beach fly fishermen in BC from Howe Sound to the east coast of Vancouver Island.   Topics covered will include rods, reels, fly lines, flies, tides, and techniques.   Andre Stepanian, the instructor for this course, has been chasing salmon on our local beaches for over two decades.  Remember, east coast Vancouver Island has a pink salmon run every year and last year the Capilano had 12,000 coho!  Book this course early as we sold out all 3courses in 2013!!

Cost: $40.00
Dates:  July 9, July 15 and July 23
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

 STEELHEAD COURSES

STEELHEAD FLOAT FISHING

Class Size: 20     

In this fishery, 10% of the anglers catch 90% of the fish.  This is your chance to learn from the 10%!  Our 3hr evening seminar will educate you on the gear, water types, conditions and other key variables that put veteran steelhead anglers in that 10%.  Mastering this fishery will make you the envy of your friends.  Upgrade your seminar to include a fully guided day on the water, putting into practice your new knowledge with a Pacific Angler guide.

Seminar Only Cost: $45.00 (before taxes)
Seminar & Guided Walk’n Wade Cost:  $400 for one person or $500 for two people
Dates:  Seminar on Jan 7.  Seminar on Feb 19.  Guided trip dates are flexible.
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

Customer Referral:

To whom it may concern,

I just wanted to thank you guys for putting on a top notch course on “Float Fishing for Steelhead”.  The information that we learned combined with the hands on practice of these techniques was invaluable. 

Our instructor/guide Dimitri did an amazing job teaching us the course material and then fine tuning these techniques on the river.  He also got us into two beautiful wild steelhead! There were more but I was asleep on the take and we won’t talk about that).  I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in steelhead fishing it gives you the tools to succeed.

Needless to say you have created a new “steelhead junkie” and Pacific Angler’s is my new local fishing shop even though I live 40km away.

Thanks again and see you soon

Isaac – Mar, 2013

WINTER STEELHEAD ON THE FLY

Class Size: 6

Fishing for winter steelhead on the fly (single hand or Spey) is arguably one of the most challenging and rewarding fisheries in BC.  Let our steelhead gurus help you unlock the mysteries of these magical fish with their decades of steelhead guiding knowledge.  This course consists of a 3hr evening seminar and 1 full day of guided fishing on the water.  In the seminar we will go over rods, reels, lines, sink tips, flies and reading water and swung fly techniques.  The fully guided day on the water we will be work on casting, reading water and swinging the fly.

Cost: $250.00
Dates:   Seminar Mar 5                   Guided Mar 8 or 9
Seminar Mar 25                 Guided Mar 29 or 30
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm

 Additional course dates are added throughout the year due to demand.

Please contact the store for additional information or to be added to a wait list.

Pacific Angler Retail: 604-872-2204

On behalf of the Pacific Angler staff we wish you the best in your fishing endeavors and we hope to see you either at the shop or on the water. To check out the latest Pacific Angler news view the Pacific Angler Facebook page.

Jason, Matt, Andre, Max, Eddie, Jordan and Bryce