We’re excited to announce “Traditions on the McKenzie: A Fly Fishing Heritage Workshop Series,” a new program designed to preserve and share the unique cultural and ecological heritage of the McKenzie River, and to get more people on the water having fun. Funded in part by the Lane County Cultural Coalition and implemented with support from local partners, this series is perfect for new anglers, youth, and anyone curious about local fly fishing traditions.

Our mission is to educate the next generation of river stewards—especially as native trout populations face new challenges and hatchery plantings become less predictable. Through storytelling, hands-on skill-building, and on-river practice, participants will learn traditional techniques, conservation ethics, and responsible angling practices that protect our river for years to come. By the end of the series, participants will have a higher level of awareness and self-confidence in interacting with the river.

Who Should Join?
This series is open to all, with a special focus on newcomers, youth, seniors, and residents of all abilities with limited access to outdoor recreation. We provide loaner equipment, adaptive gear, and translated materials to ensure everyone can participate. Participant-to-guide ratio is 10:1.

Spring 2026 Schedule:

Session 1: Stories of the River (April 4, 10 AM to 12 PM, McKenzie Fire Station Training Center). Dive into McKenzie River history, hear oral histories from Tribal Elder Deitz Peters, local guides like Randy Dersham, creator of the film "Oregon's Boat". Learn the evolution of river culture and catch-and-release ethics.

Session 2: The Art of Fly Fishing (April 11, 10 AM to 12 PM, McKenzie Fire Station Training Center). Get hands-on with fly-tying, casting, knot-tying, and responsible fishing techniques.

Session 3: Stewardship in Practice (April 18, 10 AM to 12 PM, On the River). Practice your skills on the river, focusing on habitat protection, river safety, and environmental ethics.

Pricing:

Adults: $60 (full series)
Youth & Seniors: $35 (full series)
All equipment, materials, and expert instruction included. Space is limited to 30 participants.

Click here to register and secure your spot and be part of a tradition that connects community, culture, and conservation on the McKenzie River!

For more info or to sign up, contact us at (425)420-3534.