Unless specified, events are in-person only and do not require registration.

 

JANUARY EVENTS


Unless otherwise specified, classes listed are in-person only and do not require registration.

GUADALUPE RIVER TACTICS with CODY LACROIX
Saturday, January 3rd, 10:00 A.M. at Living Waters Fly Fishing

Cody LaCroix is a full-time fly fishing guide who splits his time in Central Texas (November-May) and Alaska (May-October). Cody has been guiding the Guadalupe for about 10 years now and is one of our trusted recommendations when our own customers are looking for a Guadalupe River guide.   

In his presentation Cody will share his own perspective on our favorite local tailwater, including key insights into how the river is fishing this year. You’ll learn his favorite flies for matching the hatch on dries, his secret sauce fly combinations for nymph rigs, as well as rigging and presentation tips to make your next outing more successful!

FLY TYING NIGHT – (REGISTRATION REQUIRED FOR BEGINNERS ONLY)
Wednesday, January 7th, 7:00 P.M. at Living Waters Fly Fishing

For Beginner tiers, we supply all instruction, materials, and tools free of charge. Over the course of four weeks, you will learn fly patterns that will introduce you to core tying skills that you will build on as you grow in your tying journey. We highly recommend starting with week one and continuing in sequence, as the flies and skills we teach over the course of the month will build on each other and become more difficult.

For Intermediate+ tiers, there is no registration required. Materials and instruction are provided free of charge, but please bring your own thread, vise and tools. Each month, the fly patterns you will learn will focus on a specific material, pattern variation, or skill to increase your mastery through repetition.

6:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes
6:45 P.M. – Fly Shop Re-Opens
7:00 P.M. – Fly Tying Night
Beginner Fly #1 / BC Streamer
Intermediate Fly / Mayer’s Jigged Mini Leech
9:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes

CHASING NATIVE TROUT with SETH DAVIS
Saturday, January 10th, 10:00 A.M. at Living Waters Fly Fishing

Seth Davis is a Texas-based writer, photographer, and artist (Stonefly Artworks) who specializes in realistic fish carvings. In addition to being a regular contributor to American Fly Fishing magazine, Seth is a former Wildlife Biologist who is most passionate about pursuing native trout in their native waters.

In his class, Seth will first define what it means to be a “native” trout and discuss Aboriginal, Relic, Native, and Conservation populations. He will discuss the life history and timing of these native fish and the research he has done. Then, Seth will dive into the logistic of planning trips to pursue them for yourself!

FLY TYING NIGHT – (REGISTRATION REQUIRED FOR BEGINNERS ONLY)
Wednesday, January 14th, 7:00 P.M. at Living Waters Fly Fishing

For Beginner tiers, we supply all instruction, materials, and tools free of charge. Over the course of four weeks, you will learn fly patterns that will introduce you to core tying skills that you will build on as you grow in your tying journey. We highly recommend starting with week one and continuing in sequence, as the flies and skills we teach over the course of the month will build on each other and become more difficult.

For Intermediate+ tiers, there is no registration required. Materials and instruction are provided free of charge, but please bring your own thread, vise and tools. Each month, the fly patterns you will learn will focus on a specific material, pattern variation, or skill to increase your mastery through repetition.

6:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes
6:45 P.M. – Fly Shop Re-Opens
7:00 P.M. – Fly Tying Night
Beginner Fly #2 / Woolly Bugger
Intermediate Fly / Jigged Mini Sculpin
9:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes

INTRODUCTION TO FLY FISHING – (REGISTRATION REQUIRED)
Saturday, January 17th at Living Waters Fly Fishing

Registration required.

Join us for a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of fly casting and fly tackle, as well as access points and fly selection for the Texas Hill Country. All necessary equipment will be provided; just bring a notebook and pen!

10:00 – 11:30 / Introduction to Fly Casting – We’ll be kicking things off with a casting class catered towards beginners. This portion of class will take place outside; please dress for the weather.

11:30 – 1:00 / Basic Rigging for the Hill Country – This presentation will explain the how’s and why’s behind rod, reel, and line selection for fly fishing our local waters. We will also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different fly line tapers and show you the knots you need to get rigged up and ready to fish!

LUNCH BREAK – We’re located just a short walk from many local eateries.

2:00 – 3:30 / Local Hot Spots – Learn where, how, and when to fish our local hot spots, including techniques, river access, and fly selection for each body of water!

FLY TYING NIGHT – (REGISTRATION REQUIRED FOR BEGINNERS ONLY)
Wednesday, January 21st, 7:00 P.M. at Living Waters Fly Fishing

For Beginner tiers, we supply all instruction, materials, and tools free of charge. Over the course of four weeks, you will learn fly patterns that will introduce you to core tying skills that you will build on as you grow in your tying journey. We highly recommend starting with week one and continuing in sequence, as the flies and skills we teach over the course of the month will build on each other and become more difficult.

For Intermediate+ tiers, there is no registration required. Materials and instruction are provided free of charge, but please bring your own thread, vise and tools. Each month, the fly patterns you will learn will focus on a specific material, pattern variation, or skill to increase your mastery through repetition.

6:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes
6:45 P.M. – Fly Shop Re-Opens
7:00 P.M. – Fly Tying Night
Beginner Fly #3 / Foam Beetle
Intermediate Fly / Jigged Slum Lord
9:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes

FAVORITE FLIES FOR TEXAS: A BOOK LAUNCH EVENT
Saturday, January 24th, 10:00 A.M. at Living Waters Fly Fishing

Mark your calendar for the launch of owner, Chris Johnson’s first book, Favorite Flies for Texas!

During this special event, Chris will share details about the history and design behind some of Texas’ most iconic and productive flies, as well as stories from the creators that brought them to life. Purchase your copy of Favorite Flies for Texas at the event to have it personalized by Chris!

FLY TYING NIGHT – (REGISTRATION REQUIRED FOR BEGINNERS ONLY)
Wednesday, January 28th, 7:00 P.M. at Living Waters Fly Fishing

For Beginner tiers, we supply all instruction, materials, and tools free of charge. Over the course of four weeks, you will learn fly patterns that will introduce you to core tying skills that you will build on as you grow in your tying journey. We highly recommend starting with week one and continuing in sequence, as the flies and skills we teach over the course of the month will build on each other and become more difficult.

For Intermediate+ tiers, there is no registration required. Materials and instruction are provided free of charge, but please bring your own thread, vise and tools. Each month, the fly patterns you will learn will focus on a specific material, pattern variation, or skill to increase your mastery through repetition.

6:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes
6:45 P.M. – Fly Shop Re-Opens
7:00 P.M. – Fly Tying Night
Beginner Fly #4 / Elk Hair Caddis
Intermediate Fly / Jigged Pinch Hitter
9:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes

WATER OFF A DUCK’S BACK: A MASTERCLASS IN CDC
Saturday, January 31st, 10:00 A.M. at Living Waters Fly Fishing

Cul De Canard (CDC) feathers may very well be one of the most versatile materials in all of fly tying. Many use them for dry flies but the feather has many uses below the water’s surface as well! Living Waters’ owner, Chris Johnson has often been accused of having a CDC fetish, and truth be told, he has yet to formally dismiss the claim. Many of Chris’ signature patterns distributed by Umpqua Feather Merchants employ the use of CDC in some form or fashion. From mayflies to mouse patterns, Chris will show you how to incorporate CDC in your personal tying. Tying techniques, specialty tools, and feather grading will all be discussed in detail.

FEBRUARY EVENTS


Unless otherwise specified, classes listed are in-person only and do not require registration.

FLY TYING NIGHT – (REGISTRATION REQUIRED FOR BEGINNERS ONLY)
Wednesday, February 4th, 7:00 P.M. at Living Waters Fly Fishing

For Beginner tiers, we supply all instruction, materials, and tools free of charge. Over the course of four weeks, you will learn fly patterns that will introduce you to core tying skills that you will build on as you grow in your tying journey. We highly recommend starting with week one and continuing in sequence, as the flies and skills we teach over the course of the month will build on each other and become more difficult.

For Intermediate+ tiers, there is no registration required. Materials and instruction are provided free of charge, but please bring your own thread, vise and tools. Each month, the fly patterns you will learn will focus on a specific material, pattern variation, or skill to increase your mastery through repetition.

6:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes
6:45 P.M. – Fly Shop Re-Opens
7:00 P.M. – Fly Tying Night
Beginner Fly #1 / BC Streamer
Intermediate Fly / Clouser’s Minnow
9:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes

FLY FISHING FOR WHITE BASS with PAT VANEK
Saturday, February 7th, 10:00 A.M. at Living Waters Fly Fishing

Pat’s fly-fishing journey began at just 10 years old. His first catch—a redbreast sunfish from Turtle Creek in Kerrville—sparked a lifelong passion for the sport. Today, as the owner of Bosque Valley Fly Fishing, Pat specializes in guiding anglers in pursuit of largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass, along with carp, channel catfish, and drum. He is also a skilled fly tier and an active educator, frequently presenting at fly-fishing clubs and shops across Texas.

While Pat’s guide service focuses on the Brazos River and area tributaries around Waco, his insights into targeting white bass will help you anywhere you fish for them in Central Texas. If Waco isn’t on your to-fish list, but it should be! Come and find out when, where, and how to catch these scrappy bass on the fly!

FLY TYING NIGHT – (REGISTRATION REQUIRED FOR BEGINNERS ONLY)
Wednesday, February 11th, 7:00 P.M. at Living Waters Fly Fishing

For Beginner tiers, we supply all instruction, materials, and tools free of charge. Over the course of four weeks, you will learn fly patterns that will introduce you to core tying skills that you will build on as you grow in your tying journey. We highly recommend starting with week one and continuing in sequence, as the flies and skills we teach over the course of the month will build on each other and become more difficult.

For Intermediate+ tiers, there is no registration required. Materials and instruction are provided free of charge, but please bring your own thread, vise and tools. Each month, the fly patterns you will learn will focus on a specific material, pattern variation, or skill to increase your mastery through repetition.

6:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes
6:45 P.M. – Fly Shop Re-Opens
7:00 P.M. – Fly Tying Night
Beginner Fly #2 / Woolly Bugger
Intermediate Fly / Pat’s Ghost Minnow
9:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes

INTRODUCTION TO FLY FISHING – (REGISTRATION REQUIRED)
Saturday, February 14th at Living Waters Fly Fishing

What could be more romantic than getting tangled up together learning something new? Grab your honey and join us for a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of fly casting and fly tackle, as well as access points and fly selection for the Texas Hill Country. All necessary equipment will be provided; just bring a notebook and pen!

10:00 – 11:30 / Introduction to Fly Casting – We’ll be kicking things off with a casting class catered towards beginners. This portion of class will take place outside; please dress for the weather.

11:30 – 1:00 / Basic Rigging for the Hill Country – This presentation will explain the how’s and why’s behind rod, reel, and line selection for fly fishing our local waters. We will also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different fly line tapers and show you the knots you need to get rigged up and ready to fish!

LUNCH BREAK – We’re located just a short walk from many local eateries.

2:00 – 3:30 / Local Hot Spots – Learn where, how, and when to fish our local hot spots, including techniques, river access, and fly selection for each body of water!

FLY TYING NIGHT – (REGISTRATION REQUIRED FOR BEGINNERS ONLY)
Wednesday, February 18th, 7:00 P.M. at Living Waters Fly Fishing

For Beginner tiers, we supply all instruction, materials, and tools free of charge. Over the course of four weeks, you will learn fly patterns that will introduce you to core tying skills that you will build on as you grow in your tying journey. We highly recommend starting with week one and continuing in sequence, as the flies and skills we teach over the course of the month will build on each other and become more difficult.

For Intermediate+ tiers, there is no registration required. Materials and instruction are provided free of charge, but please bring your own thread, vise and tools. Each month, the fly patterns you will learn will focus on a specific material, pattern variation, or skill to increase your mastery through repetition.

6:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes
6:45 P.M. – Fly Shop Re-Opens
7:00 P.M. – Fly Tying Night
Beginner Fly #3 / Foam Beetle
Intermediate Fly / Clouser’s Foxee Redd Minnow
9:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes

TROUTFEST TX / MEND THE RIVER
Saturday, February 21st at Lazy L&L Campground

Over the last decade, GRTU’s Troutfest TX has become the largest event of its kind in Texas, bringing out more than 4,000 individuals interested in fly fishing and protecting cold water fisheries. For 2026, Troutfest is being reimagined as Mend the River, a focused, one-day-only fundraiser to support our Guadalupe River community’s recovery from the devastating July 2025 floods. Gather with us on Saturday, February 21st at Lazy L&L Campgrounds on the Guadalupe River as we raise vital funds for river and community! The evening will include a keynote speaker, live and online silent auction, door prizes, great food and local drink makers.

FLY TYING NIGHT – (REGISTRATION REQUIRED FOR BEGINNERS ONLY)
Wednesday, February 25th, 7:00 P.M. at Living Waters Fly Fishing

For Beginner tiers, we supply all instruction, materials, and tools free of charge. Over the course of four weeks, you will learn fly patterns that will introduce you to core tying skills that you will build on as you grow in your tying journey. We highly recommend starting with week one and continuing in sequence, as the flies and skills we teach over the course of the month will build on each other and become more difficult.

For Intermediate+ tiers, there is no registration required. Materials and instruction are provided free of charge, but please bring your own thread, vise and tools. Each month, the fly patterns you will learn will focus on a specific material, pattern variation, or skill to increase your mastery through repetition.

6:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes
6:45 P.M. – Fly Shop Re-Opens
7:00 P.M. – Fly Tying Night
Beginner Fly #4 / Elk Hair Caddis
Intermediate Fly / Clouser’s Half & Half
9:00 P.M. – Fly Shop Closes

SPRING BASS PRIMER
Saturday, February 28th, 10:00 A.M. at Living Waters Fly Fishing

As seasons change, so does fish activity and so should your fly fishing tactics. This class is completely devoted to helping you transition your techniques from winter into spring. We will walk through the basics of the bass spawning cycle, where to target trophy bass, how to read weather, fly selection and presentation, as well as how to eliminate unproductive water. This course will benefit you no matter where you fish in the Texas Hill Country or beyond.