University College

This First Year Seminar class is intended for university students with an interest in rivers, fish, and conservation. It is a multi-disciplinary class where students examine Fly Fishing from a number of different disciplines and perspectives. The Art of Fly Fishing is the actual art of fishing the river which has been expressed in literature and the visual arts. The science is the biology and ecology of river systems. These systems are delicate and at risk. The Art and Science of Fly Fishing for Trout is a skill that requires a detailed understanding of freshwater ecology. As students learn the technical aspects of fly casting, fly tying, and fly presentation, they will also be learning to identify and replicate insects during specific phases of their lifecycles. Students will also learn how human interventions within the ecosystem can harm—or benefit—trout. Students will learn about stream ecology and how to help restore damaged streams. The course will have two trips to the river, during which students will determine which insects the trout are eating, tie flies to replicate those insects, and present those flies effectively to trout. Freshwater entomology and stream ecology: Students will be able to articulate the lifecycles of key insects, stream ecology concepts, and habitat needs of trout. Students who complete the class will have the skills to catch trout on a fly rod, explain the ecological concepts that affect fish, and identify threats and improvements to our local watersheds.