Education Opportunities
- Engage with Other Registrants:
- Pose your questions; our co-hosts and community members will help answer them.
- Join the Washington iFiB Facebook Group.
- Join the Washington DIY WhatsApp Group
- 2027 Live Q&A Session
- Watch the Recorded 2026 Q&A HERE
- 2027 Date Coming Soon
- In-Person Workshop Opportunity:
- Participate in one or all of the weekend donation-based education workshops.
- Schedule will be announced late fall/winter.
- Co-Host Guidance:
- Our co-hosts will be available throughout the event.
- Get answers on topics like knots, leaders, flies, and prime fishing locations.
- Social Fishing
- Schedule will be announced late fall/winter.
We’re here to help, so don’t hesitate to ask!
- Engage with Other Registrants:
- Pose your questions; our co-hosts and community members will help answer them.
- Join the Washington iFiB Facebook Group.
- Join the Washington DIY WhatsApp Group
- 2027 Live Q&A Session
- Watch the Recorded 2026 Q&A HERE
- 2027 Date Coming Soon
- In-Person Workshop Opportunity:
- Participate in one or all of the weekend donation-based education workshops. Register HERE.
- 6/26/26 – 11:00 am to 12:30 pm – Fishing the Yakima River with J. Michelle Swope and Heather Hodson
- 6/27/26 – 10:00 am to 1:00 pm – Fishing and Paddle Craft (Speelyi Beach on Lake Cle Elum) with Elaine Campbell
- 6/27/26 2:30 pm to 3:45 pm – Intro to Fly Fishing with Heather Hodson
- 6/27/26 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm – Fly Tying Tips & Tricks with Brita Fordice
- 6/28/26 – 10:00 am to 11:00 am – Advanced Fly Tying – Articulated Baitfish with Brita Fordice
- Participate in one or all of the weekend donation-based education workshops. Register HERE.
- Co-Host Guidance:
- Our co-hosts will be available throughout the event.
- Get answers on topics like knots, leaders, flies, and prime fishing locations.
- Social Fishing
- Join us on Friday, 6/26/26, at 1 pm at the Umtanum Recreation Area to fish alongside fellow registrants. Our co-hosts will be on-site and available to answer questions about fishing setup and techniques.
We’re here to help, so don’t hesitate to ask!
Donation-Based Workshops
Donation-Based Workshops (Optional Add-On) – As part of your registration, you’re invited to sign up for one or more of our optional, donation-based workshops. These sessions are designed to build skills, confidence, and community, while supporting the instructors and programs that make this event possible.
Available workshops include:
- 6/26/26 – 11:00 am to 12:30 pm – Fishing the Yakima River with J. Michelle Swope and Heather Hodson
- 6/27/26 – 10:00 am to 1:00 pm – Fishing and Paddle Craft (Speelyi Beach on Lake Cle Elum) with Elaine Campbell
- 6/27/26 2:30 pm to 3:45 pm – Intro to Fly Fishing with Heather Hodson
- 6/27/26 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm – Fly Tying Tips & Tricks with Brita Fordice
- 6/28/26 – 10:00 am to 11:00 am – Advanced Fly Tying – Articulated Baitfish with Brita Fordice
Donations help cover instruction, materials, and program support. Space is limited, so we recommend signing up early. You will receive an email the week before the workshop with specific details and logistics.
Fishing the Yakima River Workshop
Registration for the 2026 Washington “Roslyn Riffle” DIY Fishing event is required to join this workshop. Register for the event HERE.
The “Fishing the Yakima River” workshop is designed to help anglers build confidence and practical skills for fishing Washington’s only blue ribbon river. Through four interactive learning stations, participants will gain hands-on knowledge of how to approach the river, rig their gear, understand local insect activity, and apply effective fishing techniques.
- Station #1: Leader Set-Ups
- Learn how to properly build and adjust your leader for different fishing techniques and river conditions. This hands-on station covers leader configurations, fly attachment, and practical setup adjustments to help you fish more effectively and confidently on the Yakima River.
- Station #2: Match the Hatch
- Explore the relationship between aquatic insects and trout feeding behavior. Participants will learn how to identify current Yakima River hatches, understand when they occur, and select flies based on insect activity and trout feeding patterns.
- Station #3: Fishing Techniques of the Yakima River
- This on-the-water session focuses on how to approach the river, read water, and apply the “ABCs” of river fishing. Participants will see demonstrations of casting, mending, and presentation techniques, along with guidance on how to adjust strategy based on changing river conditions.
- Station #4: Yakima River Walk and Wade Access Points and Overall Tips
- Overview of key walk-and-wade access points, river conditions, and terrain on the Yakima River. This session includes map review, safety considerations, and practical tips for confident and informed river access.
Registration for the 2026 Washington “Roslyn Riffle” DIY Fishing event is required to join this workshop. Register for the event HERE.
- Location
- Date
- Friday, June 26, 2026
- Time
- 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
- Instructors
- J. Michelle Swope and Heather Hodson
Our plan is to hold the workshop at Campsite #1, where we have reserved space for several of the learning stations. If we need to relocate due to site conditions or availability, a volunteer will direct participants to the correct workshop location.
Please arrive 15 minutes before the workshop start time to check in, pick up your registration bag, and get settled before the workshop begins.
11:00–11:15 a.m. | Welcome & Introductions
- Meet the instructors
- Workshop overview and goals
11:15–11:45 a.m. | Learning Stations (15 minutes each)
Participants will rotate through two stations.
Station 1: Yakima River Leader Setups & Fishing Techniques
Instructors: J. Michelle Swope & Bryan LaComa
- Leader setups for the Yakima River
- When and why to choose different fishing techniques
Station 2: Match the Hatch
Instructor: Heather Hodson
- Understanding insect activity
- Selecting flies to match current hatches
11:50 a.m.–12:10 p.m. | On-the-Water Demonstration
(Walk to the river as a group)
Fishing the Yakima River
- Approaching the river and the “ABCs” of fishing – Heather Hodson
- Reading the Yakima River water – J. Michelle Swope and Bryan LaComa
- Demonstration of fishing techniques – J. Michelle Swope and Bryan LaComa
- Casting, mending, and line management – Judy Grahm
12:15–12:30 p.m. | Walk-and-Wade Access & Local Tips
Instructors: J. Michelle Swope, Judy Grahm, and Bryan LaComa
- Walk-and-wade access points along the Yakima River
- Local tips for fishing the river safely and successfully
- Questions and wrap-up
After the workshop, co-hosts will be available until 4:00 pm to support participants during a social fishing session.
No fishing equipment, including rods and waders, is needed for the workshop. We recommend wearing sturdy footwear, such as wading boots or other shoes with good traction, as we’ll spend part of the workshop along the riverbank.
Please dress appropriately for the weather. A Washington State Fishing License is only required if you plan to fish after the workshop during the social fishing session.
Following the workshop, we’ll enjoy lunch together, and our co-hosts will be available to help you select flies, set up your rod, and answer any questions before you head out to fish. Please bring your own lunch.
All visitors are required to pay and display valid permits on their vehicle(s): overnight ($15.00 per night) or day use ($5.00 per day). Washington State Discover Passes are NOT valid on BLM-managed lands.
Carpooling is recommended.
We’ve included a link to downloadable workshop handouts that you can reference throughout the weekend. We’ll also have a limited number of printed copies available during the workshop for you to photograph and save on your phone for future reference.
Bring a lunch, along with snacks and your beverage of choice. We’ve set aside time to enjoy lunch together before heading out on the water.
Join us after the workshop for a fun and relaxed afternoon on the water! This is a casual DIY fishing experience, not a guided trip, so you’re free to explore the river at your own pace. Fish alongside new and familiar friends, share techniques and stories, cheer each other on, and don’t hesitate to lend a hand when someone hooks a fish. It’s a great opportunity to build confidence, make connections, and enjoy a day on the river together.
Important Social Fishing Information –
- Parking may be limited, so carpooling is highly encouraged. It is a great opportunity to meet someone new. Offer a ride or hop into a fellow participant’s vehicle.
- There is a required $5 parking fee per vehicle. This fee applies to all vehicles, regardless of whether you have a Discovery Pass.
- A valid Washington State Fishing License is required for all participants who plan to fish.
- Please bring your own lunch for the day.
- For recommended equipment, tackle, and fly selections, visit the Washington Event Fishing webpage.
- Support a local business by stopping at Crow Creek Fly Shop for flies, tackle, and other gear you will need for the weekend and future fishing adventures.
- Most importantly, be an enthusiastic fishing partner and help net your neighbor’s fish when they land a big one!
Fishing and Paddlecraft Workshop
Combine the fun of paddlecraft with the art of fishing in this hands-on workshop at Speelyi Beach on Lake Cle Elum. Designed for anglers of all skill levels, this session will guide you through safely and effectively fishing from stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), recreational kayaks, and pack rafts. Learn how to manage your gear, position your craft, and make the most of your time on the water.
Participants will gain practical tips for safely handling their paddlecraft, keeping gear organized, and fishing efficiently from the water. This workshop is hands-on and interactive, with time to try out demo gear if needed.
Life jackets are required, and a Washington fishing license is required if you plan to fish on the lake. Buy a license HERE.
Registration for the 2026 Washington “Roslyn Riffle” DIY Fishing event is required to join this workshop. Register for the event HERE.
- Location
- Date
- Saturday, June 27, 2026
- Time
- 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
- Please arrive at least 15 minutes early for the workshop.
- Instructor
- Elaine Campbell
- Fishing License
- A fishing license is required if you plan to fish on the lake. Buy a license HERE.
- Liability Waiver Required
- All participants must sign a liability waiver before joining any workshop activities. Waivers will be available at check-in, or you may complete one in advance and bring it with you. Waiver Link is HERE.
A roped-off workshop area will be available; please arrive 15 minutes early for check-in, come prepared to get wet with appropriate clothing and a change of clothes if needed, and allow extra time for gear setup if bringing your own equipment.
The workshop begins on shore with gear and safety basics, then moves onto the water for paddle skills, and finishes with on-water fishing and coaching. Note this schedule is our tentative plan and could change if appropriate.
9:45 – 10:00 a.m. | Arrival & Check-In
- Participant check-in
- Equipment setup
- Meet instructors and volunteers
10:00 – 10:45 a.m. | Land-Based Orientation & Safety Briefing
- Overview of kayaks, paddles, PFDs, and fishing gear
- Safety flags and visibility requirements
- Equipment handling and transportation
- Water safety expectations and workshop logistics
- Group Photo
10:45 – 11:30 a.m. | On-Water Paddle Skills Session –
Participants will be grouped by skill level and work on:
- Launching and landing
- Basic paddle strokes
- Maneuvering and boat control
- Stability and confidence-building exercises
- Self-rescue and recovery techniques
11:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. | Kayak Fishing Session
- Rigging rods and tackle for kayak fishing
- Fishing from your craft
- On-water coaching and instruction
- Ground support available for gear swaps and assistance
- Practice applying paddle and boat-control skills while fishing
12:45 – 1:00 p.m. | Wrap Up
- Final thoughts
- Learn how to deflate and properly store your paddle craft
After the workshop, participants with their own paddle craft are welcome to stay and continue fishing. Please let us know at check-in if you plan to do so, so we can include it in the final numbers. If you are borrowing equipment, please assist volunteers with deflating and putting away gear, if needed.
Please dress appropriately for the weather and for getting wet. A Washington freshwater fishing license is only required if you plan to fish during the social fishing portion after the workshop.
General Workshop Gear
- Paddle craft
- Personal Flotation Device (PFD), which is required
- Paddle
- Fishing gear (fly, conventional, tenkara, etc.)
- Carabiner or strap to secure loose gear to your craft
Any personal wade fishing gear (net, pliers, multitool, etc.)
Personal Gear
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Dry clothes and a towel (you will get wet at some point, so plan accordingly)
- Water shoes (no wading boots or waders, please)
- Sunglasses and a hat
- Dry bag for phone or valuables (recommended)
- Dry clothes to change into after the workshop
We will have a few spare dry bags available, and volunteers will be on shore monitoring participant gear.
Snacks and Water
- Water for hydration throughout the day
- Snacks as needed
Optional Items
- For SUPs: small cooler or 5-gallon bucket with lid (securely attached, can be used as a seat/storage)
- Rod holders compatible with your paddle craft
Several registrants will be borrowing paddle crafts and PFDs, and we would like to thank NRS for supplying a variety of paddle craft options for this workshop so participants can demo different styles. Because multiple craft types will be available, we ask that those borrowing be willing to share and try different setups throughout the session.
Please also note that during the fishing portion, you may be placed in a different craft than originally expected. This is intentional, as it offers a valuable opportunity to experience and learn how different setups perform on the water.
Safety is our number one priority. We will have safety paddlers on the water throughout the workshop to support participants. A properly fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD) and sunglasses must be worn at all times while on the water.
All participants must sign a liability waiver before participating in the workshop. Waivers will be provided during check-in and must be completed before joining any on-water or workshop activities.
To save time, you may also download and complete the waiver in advance and bring the signed copy to the event. Waiver Link is HERE.
- A valid Washington freshwater fishing license is required if you plan to participate in the fishing portion of the workshop.
- If you only plan to paddle, learn the skills, and not fish, a fishing license is not required.
Please park only in designated parking areas or in legal roadside parking locations. An overflow parking area is also available a short distance from the main beach and recreation area if the primary lot is full. To help ensure access for all visitors, please do not block roads, boat launches, or other recreation areas.
Participants are encouraged to review the paddle education materials developed by workshop instructor Elaine Campbell for United Women on the Fly over the past three months, which provide important background on paddle craft safety, access, gear considerations, and getting started on the water:
- Paddle Craft Fishing Access & Gear: The Trade-Offs Worth Knowing
- Paddle Craft Fishing Safety: What 24 Years on the Water Taught Me
- Stop Planning, Start Paddling: Getting Started with Your Paddle Craft
These resources reflect Elaine’s depth of experience and are designed to help participants arrive prepared and confident for their time on the water.
Intro to Fly Fishing
Registration for the 2026 Washington “Roslyn Riffle” DIY Fishing event is required to join this workshop. Register for the event HERE.
Curious about fly fishing but not sure where to start? Join instructor Heather Hodson for this in-person “Intro to Fly Fishing” workshop at the Roslyn Riffle, designed for absolute beginners and those with minimal experience.
This donation-based workshop builds on the popular introductory curriculum from Fly Fish Instruct, bringing foundational knowledge to life on the water. You’ll gain a clear understanding of the essential gear, techniques, and concepts needed to begin your fly fishing journey. No prior experience or equipment is necessary.
Class covers:
- Why fly fishing and what makes it unique
- Fly rod and reel breakdown
- Fly line, leader, and tippet basics
- How it all comes together
- Basic knots every angler should know
- Basic Fly Overview: Dry vs. Subsurface
- Proper fish handling and ethical practices
- What to do next after the intro class
Registration for the 2026 Washington “Roslyn Riffle” DIY Fishing event is required to join this workshop. Register for the event HERE.
- Location
- Masonic Hall in Roslyn, WA
- The Roslyn Masonic Hall is in the same building as the Post Office
- Masonic Hall in Roslyn, WA
- Date
- Saturday, June 27, 2026
- Time
- 2:30 pm to 3:45 pm
- Please arrive at least 15 minutes early to sign in and settle before the workshop begins.
- Instructors
- Heather Hodson
Please Note: Schedule Time Change. We have adjusted the Saturday workshop schedule due to forecasted afternoon wind gusts of up to 35 mph on Saturday, June 27, 2026. For safety reasons, the Paddle Craft Workshop will now take place earlier in the day. To accommodate participants registered for multiple workshops, the Intro to Fly Fishing will now begin at 2:30 pm, and Fly Tying Tips & Tricks will begin at 4:00 pm.
We appreciate your flexibility and understanding as we make these changes with everyone’s safety in mind. We look forward to seeing you this weekend!
2:15 – 2:30 pm | Arrival & Check-In
- Participant check-in
- Meet registrants and volunteers
2:30 – 2:35 pm | Welcome & Introduction
- Why fly fishing?
- What makes it unique
2:35 – 2:50 pm | Fly Fishing Equipment
- Fly rod and reel
- Fly line, leader, and tippet
- Basic equipment
- How it all comes together
2: 50 pm 3:05 pm | Understanding Flies
- Dry flies vs. subsurface flies
- When and why each is used
3:05 – 3:15 pm | Fly Casting Basics
- Fly Casting Loops and Principles
- 2 Basic Casts
3:15 – 3:30 pm | Essential Knots
- Basic knots every angler should know
- Hands-on practice
3:30 – 3:45 pm | What Comes Next
- Recommended next steps and resources
- Questions
Dress comfortably for this one-hour indoor workshop. Please bring a pen for taking notes, along with water and any snacks you may want during the session.
This workshop will be held at the Roslyn Masonic Hall, located in the same building as the Post Office. This location is ideal, as it is within walking distance of all events taking place in downtown Roslyn, WA.
Please park on Roslyn streets only in designated parking spaces or other legal roadside parking areas. Be sure to follow all posted parking signs and restrictions.
Fly Tying Tips and Tricks
Registration for the 2026 Washington “Roslyn Riffle” DIY Fishing event is required to join this workshop. Register for the event HERE.
This workshop is designed to help you tie more efficiently, cleanly, and confidently. Brita will share practical methods covering core foundations, key techniques, finishing the fly, avoiding common mistakes, and improving overall efficiency and workflow to help you create cleaner, more durable, and better-performing flies.
Please Note: Schedule Time Change. We have adjusted the Saturday workshop schedule due to forecasted afternoon wind gusts of up to 35 mph on Saturday, June 27, 2026. For safety reasons, the Paddle Craft Workshop will now take place earlier in the day. To accommodate participants registered for multiple workshops, the Intro to Fly Fishing will now begin at 2:30 pm, and Fly Tying Tips & Tricks will begin at 4:00 pm.
We appreciate your flexibility and understanding as we make these changes with everyone’s safety in mind. We look forward to seeing you this weekend!
Registration for the 2026 Washington “Roslyn Riffle” DIY Fishing event is required to join this workshop. Register for the event HERE.
- Cost
- This workshop is donation-based. Please register HERE.
- Registration closes Tuesday, 6/23/26
- This workshop is donation-based. Please register HERE.
- Location
- Masonic Hall in Roslyn, WA
- The Roslyn Masonic Halls is located in the same building as the Post Office
- Masonic Hall in Roslyn, WA
- Date
- Saturday, June 26, 2026
- Time
- 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
- Please arrive 15 minutes early for the workshop to set up your tying vice and check in
- Instructor
- Brita Fordice
3:45 – 4:00 pm | Arrival, Check-In & Vice Set-Up
- Participant check-in
- Set up a fly-tying vice
- Meet registrants and volunteers
4:00 – 4:30 pm | Tips and Tricks Discussion
- Demonstrations and discussion of fly-tying tips and tricks
4:30 – 5:00 pm | Hand On Portion
- Practice some of the tips and tricks discussed
At the end of the session, we will have a hands-on portion of the workshop, and participants are encouraged to bring their own vise and fly-tying tools so they can work directly with Brita.
Please email [email protected] by Wednesday, 6/24/26, if you need to borrow a vise and tying tools.
iFishiBelong will provide thread and any basic materials needed for the hands-on portion of the workshop.
This workshop will be held at the Roslyn Masonic Hall, located in the same building as the Post Office. This location is ideal, as it is within walking distance of all events taking place in downtown Roslyn, WA.
Please park on Roslyn streets only in designated parking spaces or other legal roadside parking areas. Be sure to follow all posted parking signs and restrictions.
Advanced fly tying: Articulated Baitfish
Take your fly-tying skills to the next level in this advanced demonstration workshop focused on building high-performance articulated streamers. Designed for experienced tiers, this session dives deep into the mechanics behind creating lifelike, movement-driven flies that trigger aggressive strikes.
Participants will learn how to properly construct multi-jointed articulated patterns, including how to securely attach materials for durability and fluid motion in the water. We’ll cover techniques for furling bodies to create tapered, natural profiles, and demonstrate how to integrate a Game Changer-style shank system for maximum articulation and realism.
Key skills covered include:
- Precision material attachment for strength and balance
- Furling techniques to build segmented, flowing bodies
- Installing and aligning articulated shanks
- Designing flies for enhanced movement and action
- Tips for selecting materials that improve sink rate and profile
Registration for the 2026 Washington “Roslyn Riffle” DIY Fishing event is required to join this workshop. Register for the event HERE.
- Cost
- This workshop is donation-based. Please register HERE.
- Location
- Masonic Hall in Roslyn, WA
- Date
- Sunday, June 28, 2026
- Time
- 10:00 am to 11:00 am
- Please arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in and set up your fly-tying vice.
- Instructor
- Brita Fordice
9:45 – 10:00 am | Arrival, Check-In & Vice Set-Up
- Participant check-in
- Set up a fly-tying vice
- Meet registrants and volunteers
10:00 – 11:00 am | Workshop
Bring your own vise and fly tying tools. iFishiBelong will provide thread and any materials needed for the hands-on portion of the workshop.
This workshop will be held at the Roslyn Masonic Hall, located in the same building as the Post Office. This location is ideal, as it is within walking distance of all events taking place in downtown Roslyn, WA.
Please park on Roslyn streets only in designated parking spaces or other legal roadside parking areas. Be sure to follow all posted parking signs and restrictions.
Friday Social Fishing Day
Details coming late fall/winter.
Join us on Friday, 6/25/26, for a fun, relaxed day on the water! This is a casual, DIY fishing day, not guided, so come ready to explore, connect, and enjoy the river at your own pace. Share the riverbanks with both new and familiar faces, swap tips, say hello, and lend a hand when someone hooks a fish!
Friday 6/25/26 – Umtanum Recreation Area on the Yakima River
- 11:00 am to 12:30 pm – “Fishing the Yakima River” Donation-Based Workshop led by J. Michelle Swope and Heather Hodson
- 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm – Registration Packet Pick-Up and Lunch
- 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm – Social Fishing at the Umtanum Recreation Area on the Yakima River
Get more Social Fishing Details HERE.
Scholarship Available
The Washington scholarship is open for applications from January 26th to April 30th, 2026. Click HERE to learn more.
The iFishiBelong Scholarship Program is designed to support individuals facing financial challenges that may impact their ability to participate in the iFishiBelong DIY Fishing events. We recognize the importance of diverse perspectives in building a united and inclusive angling community and aim to help lessen the financial barriers that may hinder attendance.
The Scholarship Covers
- Registration for the Washington iFishiBelong Event ($50 Value)
- Lodging in iFiB Team Rented House: Your lodging is reserved from Thursday, 6/25/26, to Sunday, 6/28/26, in a private room ($500 Value)
- Food: House groceries will be provided. ($50 Value)
- Guided Fly Fishing Day: Saturday, June 27th, 2026, with tip included. This guided trip will have both scholarship winners as anglers with a 2:1 guide ratio. ($350 Value)
- Education Opportunities: ($300 Value)
- Online access to all of the Fly Fish Instruct Virtual Courses
