Whenever I want to try a new hobby I like to talk to people who have been doing that activity for a while. They are usually passionate about their hobby and will give me the real scoop on the skills and equipment needed.

But where, you ask can I find a bunch of fly anglers willing to take the time to answer my questions about fly fishing? Easy, just attend Trout Unlimited meeting. Trout Unlimited is a national, non-profit organization whose mission is “conserving, protecting and restoring North America’s coldwater fisheries and their watersheds.” Trout Unlimited is composed of State Councils and local chapter. The local chapters have meetings once a month and are dying to talk to new anglers about the joys of fly fishing.

Lucky for us there are three chapters in our area. The Northern Virginia Chapter, the National Capital Chapter, and the George Washington Chapter. Not only do the chapters offer lively meetings, most chapters also offer fishing trips, classes and can provide information on where to fish.

GEORGE WASHINGTON CHAPTER: The George Washington Chapter (GWTU) meets in old town Alexandria. The meetings are held the second Wednesday of the month at 7:30pm at the top floor of the American Legion Hall at 400 Cameron Street. The George Washington chapter offers monthly fishing trips to area stream. For more information go to gwtu.org.

NATIONAL CAPITAL CHAPTER The National Capital Chapter meets at the Bethesda Chevy Chase Center in Downtown Bethesda the second Wednesday of Oct., Nov., Jan., Feb., April, and May. Doors open at 7:15 for socializing and the meeting begins at 8:00pm. The National Capital Chapter also has a wonderful Angling Show. Check out ncc-tu.org.

NORTHERN VIRGINIA CHAPTER The Northern Virginia Chapter meets at the Vienna Firehouse. Meetings are held the first Thursday of the month. Meetings start at 6:45 for fly tying and the actual meeting begins at 7:30. The Northern Virginia Chapter also offers fishing trips twice a month. In March three trips are offered. March 3 Rapidan River, March 16 Rose River and March 31 Mountain Creek. For more information go to nvatu.org.

Trout Unlimited also offers a wonderful opportunity for High School aged students:

The Trout Unlimited Conservation and Fishing Camp
Sunday, June 22 to Friday, June 27
Graves Mountain Lodge, Syria, VA
The camp is a six day, five night residential camp.

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