Spend time at the vise with one of the most influential fly tiers and fly designers in modern trout fishing!
Join Arkansas Fly Fishers on Sunday, November 15, from 2:30 to about 4:30 p.m. for a special fly-tying clinic with Charlie Craven. This is a unique opportunity to learn directly from one of the country's most respected fly tiers, fly designers, guides, authors, and instructors.
Charlie is perhaps best known for his innovative, highly effective fly patterns and his ability to explain not only how to tie a fly, but why it works. His patterns have become standards among trout anglers, and his approach emphasizes practical techniques, durability, efficiency, and flies that consistently catch fish.
Charlie owns Charlie’s Fly Box in Arvada, Colorado, and has spent decades guiding and teaching anglers throughout the Rocky Mountain West. His experience as a guide and fly-shop professional gives him a unique perspective on fly design and tying—connecting what happens at the vise with what actually works on the water. What truly sets Charlie apart is his ability to make sophisticated tying techniques understandable, practical, and fun.
Charlie is the author of several highly regarded books, including Tying Nymphs, Charlie’s Fly Box, and Tying Streamers. The specific patterns for the clinic have not yet been finalized, but you can expect Charlie to focus on his approach to designing and tying flies that are effective, efficient, and designed to catch challenging trout. Charlie will also have copies of his books available for purchase and will be happy to sign them.
Participants are encouraged to tie along with Charlie. Bring your vise, basic tying tools, and appropriate thread—or simply come watch, learn, and take notes. AFF will provide the other materials needed for the clinic. Participants will be able to watch a live, magnified video of Charlie's flythroughout the presentation, making it easy to see the techniques and details at the vise.
Make a Day of It with Charlie Craven!
AFF has planned a full afternoon and evening with Charlie:
2:30–4:30 p.m. — Fly-Tying Clinic
Spend two hours at the vise learning directly from Charlie.4:30–5:30 p.m. — Happy Hour & Book Signing
Enjoy a drink, visit with fellow fly fishers, and have Charlie sign one of his books.5:30 p.m. — AFF Fish Fry Dinner
Enjoy a special buffet dinner prepared onsite by Adam's Catfish & Catering.6:00 p.m. — Interactive Dinner Presentation
Charlie will share his knowledge and experience in an interactive evening program focused on fly design, tying, and the techniques that make flies successful on the water.The tying clinic and evening dinner presentation are separate events. Separate registration/ticket required for dinner.
The clinic will be held at the Hospitality House in North Little Rock's Burns Park, 402 W. Military Road. Members and guests are welcome.
Cost: $15 for AFF members and $30 for non-members. Space is limited!