Dozens of flies invaded CJ’s Sandbar in downtown Lake Orion last week, but there was no reason to worry.
The Lake Orion Sunrise Rotary Club welcomed Ken (Hank) Matheis of Hank’s Fly Fishing on Baldwin Road as their guest speaker.
‘When you go out with a worm, it doesn’t take a big brain to do that,? Matheis said. ‘Fly fishing, though, there’s a challenge.?
Speaking to a small group of both novices and enthusiasts, Matheis said that much like the game of golf, fly fishing takes plenty of practice.
‘Fly fishing is such a great learning experience, especially for kids,? he said. ‘It’s an artform.?
Hank’s offers one-on-one lessons and group lessons at the store (1015 S. Baldwin), through Dan Catau, an authority on the subject of fly fishing.
‘There are so many interesting and exciting things you can do,? Matheis said, offering learning to tie your own fly as an example.
‘If you actually use your own ties and a fish bites on it, holy Moses, is that exciting,? he said.
Matheis noted that there are over three million miles of streams in Michigan.
‘We have one of the finest resources right here in our own backyard,? he said of the Paint Creek, which is loaded with trout. ‘You can get out in the wilderness and be one with nature.?
In most cases, Matheis encourages a catch and release policy.
‘If you want a fish to eat, just go to the store,? he said. ‘Leave the trout in the stream and enjoy the art of catching them.?
Matheis added that classes are a great way to start and gauge one’s interest in the sport.
For more information, stop by, call (248)393-1500 or visit www.hanksflyfishing.com.
The Rotary Club meets every Thursday at 7:15 a.m. at CJ’s Sandbar and hosts a variety of speakers throughout the year.
For more information about the club, visit www.lakeorionrotary.org.