Erie Escapades: Recounting the Women's Steelhead Clinic
From October to March, the rivers along the Great Lakes in Erie, PA, transform into a vibrant playground for steelhead as they engage in their annual spawning ritual. This natural spectacle serves as a magnetic force, drawing anglers from various states to witness the mesmerizing dance of these fish. In the crisp days of November, a unique and empowering event graced Erie - the Women's Fly Fishing Clinic. Christa Miriashtiani, founder of Silver Hen Fly Co., and local guide Ari Capotis of Keystone Fly Girl, collaborated to host this two-day clinic. The gathering brought together ten women from diverse locations, creating a dynamic space for them to refine their angling skills. Armed with my Canon C70 and trusty Canon EOS R, I eagerly set out on a journey to capture the essence of this weekend.
Day 1: Mastering the Roll Cast
The clinic kicked off on a crisp Saturday morning with introductions and camaraderie over Tim Horton's coffee and donut holes. The participants, hailing from Pennsylvania, West Virginia, New York, Ohio, Delaware, and Maryland, bonded quickly. Christa and Ari, our guides for the weekend, introduced Sarah Lilly, a carpenter and part-time fly guide from Morgantown, West Virginia, as an extra set of hands.
Christa emphasized the importance of the "roll cast" – a key technique for success in steelhead fishing. A workshop on an athletic field by a small creekside park saw participants practice their roll casts under the guidance of Christa and Ari. The session ended with a friendly distance casting competition, won by Christa.
After a delightful lunch, the group geared up with waders and set out to the shores of the Elk River. Despite clear conditions, which are typically less favorable for steelhead fishing, the participants embraced the challenge. Although the fish proved elusive, the day was filled with laughter and determination.
Day 2: Fighting the Fish and Building Bonds
Day two commenced with a hearty breakfast cooked by Chef Christa, featuring eggs and sausage. Undeterred by the previous day's fishing challenges, the group eagerly dove into a new workshop on "fighting the fish." This interactive session involved participants reeling in guides, symbolizing the challenge of landing a steelhead. The field came alive with laughter, cheers, and camaraderie, making it the highlight of the entire weekend.
Following the workshop, the women returned to the water for another day of fishing, facing similar conditions as day one. Despite the absence of fish in the nets, the participants left with newfound friendships and memories. Notably, the weekend concluded with a heartwarming surprise – Christa got engaged to her girlfriend Abbie, adding an extra layer of stoke to an already memorable experience.
The Women's Fly Fishing Clinic in Erie, PA, proved to be more than just a fishing excursion. It was a celebration of camaraderie, skill-building, and the unbreakable spirit of women anglers. As the participants dispersed, they carried with them not only improved angling techniques but also lasting bonds forged over a shared passion for fly fishing. The weekend was a testament to the transformative power of the outdoors and the community it can create among like-minded individuals.
I had an incredible weekend on the water with Christa from Silver Hen Fly Co. and Ari from Keystone Fly Girl during this clinic. Their expertise and guiding services made the experience truly memorable. I highly recommend checking out their work to discover the magic and stoke they bring to the fly fishing community.