BURRILLVILLE – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is hosting a six-hour fly-fishing clinic at Addieville East Farm as the kickoff to a series of events aimed at drawing attention to the state’s aquatic resources.
Introduction to Freshwater Fly-Fishing will take place at the Mapleville farm from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 8. Families with children 10 years and older will learn about flyfishing equipment, fly-tying, fly-casting, and the best fishing areas across Rhode Island during the six-hour workshop.
The workshop costs $15 per person, and lunch and equipment are provided. Registration is required by contacting Kimberly Sullivan at Kimberly.sullivan@dem.ri.gov.
The workshop is part of DEM’s Aquatic Resource Education Program. ARE is a federally funded program designed to enhance the public’s understanding of aquatic resources by providing safe and responsible fishing training opportunities.
According to a release from DEM, fishing plays an important role in connecting people with nature, promoting health, attracting tourism, and supporting a treasured tradition for Rhode Island families, as part of a larger network of recreational opportunities in the state.
According to the US Fish & Wildlife Service, there are around 175,000 recreational anglers age 16 plus in Rhode Island and recreational fishing contributes more than $130 million to the economy each year.
An additional outdoor workshop will take place on Wood River in Acadia Management Area in Richmond on Thursday, June 13; and free fly-tying workshops will be held at libraries in North Smithfield, Coventry, and Greenville through July and August.
Follow DEM on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or Twitter @RhodeIslandDEM for more information on recreational opportunities in Rhode Island as well as other updates.
