Like many things in life, such as driving or swimming, everyone can learn faster and better if someone can explain and show you the essential skills. Casting with a fly rod is the same. It doesn’t matter if you are a complete beginner or an advanced fly caster; a lesson in fly casting from a professionally qualified instructor will always be helpful. It can cure your mistakes, give you an in-depth understanding of the physics and the process of casting, and, most importantly, the positive result from a good lesson will make you more confident and feel better when casting in a real situation. Fly casting is one of the most important components of fly fishing. It defines the process and separates it from other fishing methods where different casting principles apply. It is not as complicated as it might look.
Fly Casting Courses
Mankov Fly Fishing Ltd. organizes casting courses for individuals and groups. Our instructor, Stanislav Mankov, is qualified as both an EFFA and AAPGAI fly casting instructor for single-handed rods.
The course duration depends on your goals and how much time you wish to spend training with Stanislav. We organize courses for both beginners and advanced fly casters. Stanislav can also provide specialized coaching for those aiming to pass basic instructor exams at EFFA or provisional/basic levels at AAPGAI. His coaching methods are always up to date, following modern trends and continuously improving to provide the best possible learning experience.
Beginner Course
The beginner course is designed for those new to the sport or handling a fly rod for the first time. This course will teach you one thing for sure: to cast. It will also provide the confidence and knowledge to continue your fly-casting education.
The course covers:
- How to set up tackle (choosing rods, reels, lines, knots, and leaders based on the destination).
- Different grips and body positions.
- Roll casting techniques (including specialized techniques for windy conditions).
- Overhead casting techniques.
- Health and safety while casting and fishing.
We will also discuss how flies are used in different situations, reading the water, finding fish, and understanding feeding patterns. Mankov Fly Fishing Ltd. can supply all necessary tackle for the course, though you are welcome to bring your own gear for Stanislav to evaluate and provide his professional opinion.
Advanced Course
This course is suited for experienced casters looking to refine their skills. It helps correct mistakes quickly and efficiently; Stanislav’s expert eye can identify errors that are often hard to spot in oneself. He explains corrections in an understandable way to ensure you can self-correct in the future.
The course includes:
- Distance roll casts and roll casts with a haul.
- Overhead casts with single and double hauls.
- Casting off both shoulders.
- Single and double Spey techniques for single-handed rods.
- The underhand technique, Snap T, and Circle (C) casts.
- Practical techniques for changing directions and loop control.
- Specialized casting for heavy flies (pike streamers, heavy nymphs).
During the course, Stanislav will do his best to improve your casting and ensure you have a great time. Mankov Fly Fishing Ltd. offers a satisfaction guarantee: if a participant feels they did not learn anything or that the course was not helpful, we will provide a full refund.
Price list (prices are the same for both types of courses and are per person)
One-person course:
- 100 € for 2 hours.
- 180 € for half a day (4 hours separated into two 2-hour sessions with a break in between).
- 250 € for a full day (6 hours separated into two 3-hour sessions with a break in between).
Two-person course:
- 60 € pp for 2 hours.
- 100 € pp for half a day (4 hours separated into two 2-hour sessions with a break in between).
- 150 € pp for a full day (6 hours separated into two 3-hour sessions with a break in between).
From a three to five-person course:
- 40 € pp for 2 hours.
- 60 € pp for half a day (4 hours separated into two 2-hour sessions with a break in between).
- 100 € pp for a full day (6 hours separated into two 3-hour sessions with a break in between).
The Fly Casting Course is an excellent gift for any avid angler!
Demonstrations
Stanislav Mankov performs casting demonstrations for clubs and international fly fishing fairs. In 2022, he was honored to present at the largest fly fishing show in Europe – the EWF fair in Munich, Germany.
In these demonstrations, Stanislav focuses on efficient, effective “casts that catch fish.” Other popular topics include:
- Distance casting and the double haul.
- Trick casts and their practical use on the water.
- Casting large flies and sinking lines.
- Waterborne casts and leader setups for various situations.
If you represent a club or are organizing an event for at least six people, Stanislav is available for demonstrations and clinics. Clinics allow participants to immediately practice what they have seen under his guidance. Please contact Mankov Fly Fishing Ltd. to discuss options, availability, and costs.
