Mountain Trout Fly Fishing School: George Washington National Forest

Discover the specialized tactics required for native brook trout fishing in high-gradient mountain streams. Unlike typical trout rivers, these "blue line" environments in the George Washington National Forest demand technical precision and a stealthy approach.

Since 1962, Harry Murray has refined this full-day immersive school to help anglers confidently navigate the smallest mountain streams. This class is an ideal introduction to mountain angling and a perfect follow-up to our Shenandoah National Park schools.

What You Will Learn: Small Stream Mastery

Our curriculum focuses on the intricacies unique to the "smallest" of the small mountain streams. The size of the stream this class focuses on is indicative of 80% of the native Brook Trout Streams in the East.  We spend the majority of the day on the water to maximize your learning experience.

• Casting & Presentation: Techniques for tight cover and high-gradient runs.
• Reading the Water: Identifying prime lies in small pools and pocket water.
• Equipment Selection: Choosing the right fly rod, reel, and line for mountain trout.
• Mountain Entomology: Learning to match the hatch for native brook trout.
• Techniques: Hands-on training in both nymph and topwater fishing.

Premium Gear & Personalized Instruction

To ensure a high-quality learning environment, we maintain a low 5:1 student-to-instructor ratio. We provide high-quality fly rod and reel outfits for you to use during the school at no extra charge.  Flies and tools are not included or provided.  We will help you select the flies that are working best at the time of our class.

Planning to gear up? Students enjoy exclusive discounts on Complete Fly Rod Outfits including rod, reel, line, and backing.

Preparation & What to Bring

The school begins at 9:00 a.m. at our fly shop in Edinburg, VA, with a classroom presentation. We then drive to a stream in the George Washington National Forest, concluding at 5:00 p.m. Please come prepared for a full day outdoors, rain or shine.

Student Checklist:

• Licenses: VA Freshwater License & National Forest Permit (Available at the shop).
• Wading Gear: Waders and hard-sole boots are strongly recommended (April–June).
• Footwear: Hard-sole boots are essential for safety; avoid sandals or flip-flops.
• Personal Items: Lunch, water, raincoat, warm jacket, sunscreen, and bug repellent.
• Transportation: SUV or vehicle with average clearance required (We travel 5 miles on a dusty or muddy gravel road).

Discover the unique fly fishing methods for small, native brook trout streams with Murray's Fly Shop On-the-Stream Fly Fishing Schools. Unlike typical trout streams, these high-gradient environments require specialized tactics. Learn from experienced instructors in our full-day school, blending classroom and on-the-stream instruction in the George Washington National Forest. Perfect for any angler, and a great follow-up to our Shenandoah National Park schools.

Unlike our Shenandoah National Park Schools, this class hones in on the smallest native Brook Trout streams, making it a perfect next step or a great starting point for new anglers. Since 1962, we’ve refined this program to help you confidently navigate and fish these challenging waters.

Your day begins at 9 a.m. with a classroom session and continues with hands-on instruction in the nearby George Washington National Forest, wrapping up at 5 p.m. Discover the proven tactics and time-tested strategies for success in mountain stream fly fishing.

Once you enroll in Our Fly Fishing School – Premium Gear & Personalized Instruction Included
Ready to elevate your fly fishing skills? Enroll in our fly fishing school and enjoy expert instruction with a low 5:1 student-to-instructor ratio for a personalized learning experience. We provide high-quality fly rods and reels during class, and offer exclusive discounts on complete fly rod outfits—including rod, reel, fly line, and backing—for those ready to gear up. Whether you're new to the sport or looking to refine your technique, our top-tier equipment and hands-on instruction ensure you're set up for success on the water.

What to bring: Virginia Freshwater Fishing License & National Forest Permit (both are available at our fly shop or online), Change of Clothes, Raincoat, Camera, Lunch, Water, Warm Jacket, Sunscreen, Bug Repellent, Waders/ Wading Shoes  (We do not provide waders, wading shoes, snips, pliers or flies).  

You need to provide your own transportation for the day. 

During our fly fishing school, instructors will introduce key gear including flies, fly boxes, leaders, and other essential tools. While these items are not provided during class, they are available for purchase after the presentation. Prepare for success with our expert-recommended fly fishing equipment, available right at Murray’s Fly Shop.

(Lodging,  Wading Gear, Snips, Pliers & Flies are not included.) 

A detailed information sheet (where to meet, what to bring, places to stay,  etc.) will be emailed to you upon registration. 
We keep class sizes small in these schools to maximize the on stream learning experience for each participant.   
Cost of school: $200.00 per person 

Important School Notes & Disclaimer

Our On-the-Stream Fly Fishing Schools and lessons take place directly on the river or stream to provide the most immersive learning experience possible. While we strive to ensure a safe and enjoyable day, please be aware that outdoor conditions—such as heat, cold, rain, slippery rocks, briars, tall grass, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitoes—are beyond our control. Expect to be actively moving through water and along the streambanks throughout the day, rain or shine.

What to Wear & Bring:

• Waders and hard sole fishing boots are strongly recommended from April through mid-June.

• Hard sole boots are essential for wet wading; please avoid open-toed sandals, flip flops, aqua socks, kayak booties, or any footwear that doesn’t provide proper foot protection.

• Long pants offer valuable protection against briars, poison ivy, and tall grass when wet wading.

• A wading staff is highly recommended for anyone unfamiliar with navigating rocky or uneven streambeds in the Shenandoah Valley.

Physical Requirements:
Expect a moderate level of activity—comparable to walking up 8 flights of stairs over 15 minutes.

To make the most of your fly fishing school experience, please honestly assess your physical abilities. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to help guide you to the best option. Contact us at (540) 984-4212 and let us help you choose the right class for your comfort and enjoyment.

Cancellation Policy on Mountain Trout Schools-- If you cancel 60 days before the date of your school, a full refund is issued.  With any shorter notice, your refund will be issued through a store credit.