2-Day Spey Course with Aaron Caldwell

Whether you're trying out Spey casting to see if you like it or preparing for an upcoming trip, we can help you improve your Spey game. Classes are limited to 5 students. Whether you've never touched a Spey rod or are a seasoned veteran, there is a place here for you.

Successful Spey fishing, whether for trout or steelhead, encompasses many skills. We spend a good part of our year guiding and fishing for Salmon, Steelhead and Trout. We are fortunate to be exposed to many successes and failures, both our own and those of our clients. Over time, We've identified some commonalities and used them as valuable teaching tools. These camps aren't just about casting. This program aims to elevate your understanding of Skagit casting. We break it down into easy-to-digest portions with a great mix of instruction and freedom to practice new skills, swing concepts, demos, equipment demystification and theory. Two days is our preferred format to cover the amount of material necessary. We do this in a comfortable & fun environment by developing a framework that helps you become a successful & effective Spey angler.

More and more seasoned anglers/casters are participating in the Spey Camps. What initially started as a trip preparation/general overview course has turned into a different animal altogether (or several different animals). Experienced casters and anglers find great value in the curriculum because they have hit a plateau in their casting and fishing. There is a place for all levels of experience and the mixture of experiences in the groups sometimes makes it even more fulfilling for all involved.

Course Curriculum Covers

• Understanding basic stances and grips specific to each student
• Understanding the 3 basic fundamentals of Spey casting and what they do
• Proper technique for roll cast, circle C cast and double Spey
• Plus a few bonus casts if time allows
• We will cast both river left and river right so you’re always prepared
• Understanding angles - wading/casting/swinging
• Understanding equipment - what will work for you and your situation
• Things to consider before buying equipment
• Rod/line balancing - Properly balance the equipment you have
• Other basic skills and various concepts of swing fishing
• Understanding, execution, and diagnosis of basic Skagit casts
• Presentation of a swung fly
• Understanding sink tips - how, when and where to use them
• Reading various water situations
• What to do when you get a bite
  
• Spey rods/reels/lines are provided. If you have your equipment, you are encouraged to bring it so we can make sure it's balanced and get you more comfortable casting it

About Your Instructor Aaron Caldwell

Born & raised in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Aaron started tying flies a year after receiving his first fly rod in 1989. After graduation, Aaron attended culinary school in Prince Edward Island and travelled to western Canada as part of his journey to become a Red Seal Chef. While in the west he was introduced to some fantastic fisheries which he has been exploring ever since. Upon returning to the east in the late 90's fly fishing & tying became an even more critical part of his life. He peddled his flies to co-workers and at flea markets, perfecting his craft until the west called him back in 2004.

Aaron obtained employment at Fishtales Fly Shop in Calgary, Alberta and in 2007 started guiding trout anglers on the Bow River. A combination of summers guiding, commercial tying, bartending and cooking provided just enough income to finance his adventures. In the years that followed, he fished extensively throughout British Columbia, Alberta, the United States, Belize, Mexico, Cuba, the Bahamas and even Oman.

Aaron now resides in Terrace, British Columbia - He winters there and enjoys some downtime, personal fishing and hunting. In May, he returns to Calgary to Teach two-handed casting at his camp on the banks of the Bow River. July & August, he guides on the Bow River and runs his camp for overnight guests. After his season on the Bow, he heads north to spend his fall at Babine Norlakes Steelhead Camp near Smithers, BC.

Cost: $499.98 +GST
Day 1: Saturday, May 3rd, 2025 (8 hour session)
Day 2: Sunday, May 4th, 2025 (8 hour session)
Time: 9am to 5pm
Location: Chilliwack River

Limited to 5 students.

What to Bring

• Rod, reel, and line (optional – feel free to bring your own if you have them. If not, we’ll provide rods, reels, and lines for your use).
• Sunglasses or glasses (mandatory for eye protection).
• Waders, boots, a raincoat, hat, and appropriate clothing to stay comfortable throughout the day.
• Food and drinks for the day (pack lunch, snacks, and water, coffee, or tea).
• A notebook or device for taking notes.

Important: This is a casting course, not a fishing course. Participants will practice casting using yarn instead of hooks.

This course is sponsored by Patagonia and Echo Fly Fishing.