The icy current of the river pushes against the wading angler
on this mid-winter afternoon. Though the air temperature is a balmy 55 degrees, the only thing standing between a pleasant day on the water and hypothermia are a pair of insulated waders.
Like the arm of a metronome, the fly rod swishes back and forth with practiced rhythm. As the line shoots forward, the fly gently kisses the clear water and slowly sinks. As the feathered lure tumbles along with the current, the angler gives a short sweep of the rod. The varnished bamboo telegraphs a jolting strike. With a lift of the rod, the hook is set and the fight begins.
This scene, which could be straight out of the movie, “A River Runs Through It,” is something few River Valley anglers experience. Fly-fishing is something that requires discipline and practice. It hovers on the line between utility and art. One can collect the prime ingredients for a shore lunch with any old fishing pole, but a fly rod enables you to do it with style.
All that being said, anyone willing to try can learn to do it. The members of the Caddis Fly Fishing Club experience magical moments like this on a regular basis and the club is always looking for new converts to teach. The only thing standing in the way of your own personal fly-fishing adventure is the will to learn.
The CADDIS in the Caddis Fly Fishing Club (CFFC) is an acronym. It stands for Central Arkansas Dead Drifters Icthyological Society. Yes, that is quite a mouthful but it’s a clever acronym too. Caddis fly larvae imitations are favored-fly patterns for trout and other fish.
Founded in 1996, the CFFC started in Morrilton. Most members called Russellville home so within a couple of years the club moved west. Club secretary Ron Schwartz recalled that the desire to educate others was the first step towards the organization.
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