CONCORD, N.H. - Two upcoming workshops offer a chance to learn about the traditional sport of fly-fishing. The classes are free and sponsored by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department's "Let's Go Fishing" Program.

"Fly-Fishing A-Z" will take place on Saturday, May 16, 2015, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the N.H. Fish and Game Department in Concord; on Sunday, May 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., participants will head out to a Concord area fishing hole to put their newly learned skills to the test. Registration forms must be received by May 4.

On June 6-7, 2015, Fish and Game teams up with the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation to present "The North Country Experience," a beginning fly-fishing weekend course at Coleman State Park in Stewartstown, N.H. Registration forms must be received by May 22. Non-local participants are expected to make their own arrangements for overnight accommodations; camping is available by reservation at Coleman State Park, and there are also motels and lodges available in the area.

These classes are open to anyone age 13 and over, however, those 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Class space is limited, and registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

To sign up for either of these courses, you must print out and return the appropriate registration form, available at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/lets_go_fishing_class_schedule.htm.
Registration forms can also be obtained by calling Lisa Collins at (603) 271-3212 or emailing aquatic-ed@wildlife.nh.gov. You will be notified via e-mail or regular mail if you are registered or have been placed on the waiting list.

Designed primarily for first-time fly-anglers, the workshop will cover the basics of equipment, fly casting, stream ecology, knot tying, safety and how to find those "hot spots" along New Hampshire's rivers and lakes. Participants should bring their own or borrowed equipment if they have it. Rods are available for use; when you register, please let Fish and Game know if you will need to borrow their equipment.

The N.H. Fish and Game Department's "Let's Go Fishing" program has taught thousands of children and adults to be safe, ethical and successful anglers. The program is federally funded through the Sport Fish Restoration Program, via an excise tax on angling equipment and motorboat fuel.