Mentoring and Member Services

Schmidt Outfitters, Wellston, MI

The IAFFV has established a mentoring process to help veterinarians who would like to get into fly fishing but might not know where to begin. We have members from all over the U.S. and it might be very possible to find someone nearby willing to help. There are a large number of fly fishing clubs, especially those connected with the Federation of Fly Fishers. This provides another possibility for beginning fly anglers.  Some of the IAFFV programs are suited for all levels of fly fishing and most often guides at most of our destinations are FFF certified fly casting instructors. No doubt that after 4 or more days of fly fishing at IAFFV programs, you will be a better fly angler than when you started.

Equipment is always an issue as it is not easy to learn techniques of fly casting without the right tools. If one has a reputable fly shop nearby, many times these folks will help assess status of appropriate equipment, availability of classes and starter kits for beginning fly anglers. If that is not possible, Schmidt Outfitters in Wellston, MI (www.schmidtoutfitters.com) is an excellent resource. Ray Schmidt has provided the IAFFV with group membership which includes a discount on some items including clothing, waders, boots, rods, reels, flies, etc. There are other benefits as well but the discount does not apply to schools, lodging or guide services. The annual web site membership fee payable to Schmidt Outfitters is $9.95 which includes a fly box and assortment of flies. All one has to do is call John at the shop (888/221-9056), mention my name and tell him you are an IAFFV member. If you are a beginner, they have starter kits that are of excellent quality and very affordable. I assure you that they can be trusted to do the right thing and are willing to answer all of your questions. If you are beyond the beginner stage, they can take care of the want and need items as well. In addition, the fly fishing schools offered at Schmidt’s have been ranked by Field and Stream as one of the top programs in the US. Check their web site for more detail. If you have any questions or comments, let me know. 

Don Sawyer

www.schmidtoutfitters.com