I am basically a rookie when it comes to fishing in general. I love to fish and know all the basics to what im doing. But I have always wanted to try fly fishing. I spend a heck of a lot more time on rivers than lakes especially the Guad and San Marcos racing canoes, and fly fishing seems to be the better choice over the lake bank fishing im doing now. The thing is I dont know anything about fly fishing, and i mean nothing. I was wondering where i can get good lessons, good gear, and good overall knowledge for cheap. Any suggestions.

Get yourself over to the nearest fly fishing club and they will have you set up in no time!

Also, there is not too many of them in Texas, but if you can locate a flyshop nearby, try to get in there, make yourself known, ask questions about everything you're curious about (even if it makes you feel like a rookie)Not to be stereotyping, but I think you'll find that most flyfisherman that you'll be meeting, are some of the most informative, and kind hearted people that you will ever meet. I know when I was learning where I'm from (up north) I asked some pretty stupid questions, but that's the way you learn. Best of all, the good flyshops usually offer weekend tying classes, and casting instructions on weekends as well. Some are for a small fee, some are free depending on the people running the show. But in the end it doesn't really matter about the $$. To me even if I have to pay, at least i'm giving my money to a REAL mom & pop
flyshop rather than giving it to some of these corporate places that usually don't care, or are simply not well versed in the sport.(not that I don't from time to time either)Plus one of the best ways to learn is using this great forum. I've learned alot by just browsing the net!
When you do ask, just don't say,"what is the rod used for?". lol

The best live free instruction I can recommend near you is at Tackle Box Outfitters in San Antonio. Their fishing guru, Bruce Young, can help you get started with casting, rigging, and with everything else you need.

For free instruction where you are sitting, check out the beginners sections on www.flyanglersonline.com. We won't be offended if you don't post much on here, as we realize you are poring through the mountains of useful info on that site.

I see you are right there by Austin. Get a fly rod and reel, go to the next Austin Fly Fishers meeting and just stand there holding that new fly rod until someone comes up to you and asks if they can help you. Tell them "yes!"

But seriously, I believe that if you get in touch with them you would have more offers of help than you knew what to do with. Fly anglers tend to want to help others learn the art.

Given that you are in Drippin', I would head down RR 12 and then onto 71 and into Sportsman's Finest. Once there, ask for Joe Robinson, older guy with glasses who walks with a limp. He is probably one of the greatest fly casters around and is nice as hell. He gives lessons. These guys also guide and give lessons. Kevin used to work at Orvis and is the President of Austin Fly Fishers. Nice guy who knows his stuff. Alvin used to work at the Austin Angler before it closed. He is a VERY down to earth guy and doesn't mind if you have never picked up a fly rod in your life.

www.hillcountryflyfishers.com
www.alvindedeaux.com

Hey guys Thanks Alot! Sorry I didnt respond I thought I had no responses when I saw 0 in my View Recent Posts. I will definitely try these ideas. Once again thanks for the help.