wylie,

here's a little secret about those displays, casting ponds, and such places at fly fishing shows/events: there are usually a few to a bunch of guys and maybe a few gals hanging out there who are very qualified and who would be more than happy to give a free lesson as well as allow you to test drive the equipment. there are 2 reasons why rod companies go to events like this and support them: to promote their products to existing fly anglers AND to promote the sport of fly fishing to NEWCOMERS AND PROSPECTS. and i can safely speak for the owner of TFO that both of those motives are equal to him. so don't ever be shy at a rodmaker's booth or casting pond! if you see lefty krey or gary borger or joan wulff or dave whitlock standing around, walk up and ask them for a lesson! you'll probably be pleasantly shocked and amazed. i know quite a few people who have gotten free lessons from the masters this way at public events. and ONE 30 minute to 1 hour lesson from a good instructor will put you a year ahead of struggling along on your own with books, videos, and buddies who aren't really qualified to teach.