Centre County and the Spring Creek Watershed are home to nationally renowned trout streams and have made this area an important fly fishing destination for many. This talk will provide a quick introduction to fly fishing, its history in the local community, and discuss opportunities for getting involved in both fly fishing and freshwater conservation locally. Fly fishing appeals to people in many different ways: for some it’s about catching fish, for others tying flies is a satisfying creative outlet, and for most, the connection to nature is perhaps the most important. After this presentation, attendees will leave with some new perspective on the sport and how they can participate locally, or deepen their involvement if they are already engaged.

- Please arrive 10-15 minutes early so the program can begin promptly.
- RSVPs are appreciated for this event (but not required), so we can estimate attendance to Webster's staff.

About the Presenters:

Richard Novak is an endangered species biologist with the US Fish & Wildlife Service. He has been a member of Spring Creek TU since 2017, and has served on its board since 2023. Hunting, fishing, and other outdoor pursuits have always been his passion, and he very much enjoys connecting others to nature through these activities. 

Larry Ragan's work with the Spring Creek Chapter of Trout Unlimited (SCCTU) is specifically tied to the veterans' service program. He helps instruct the Fly Fishing 101 and Fly Tying for Beginners as part of the Winter Series program. This program is an outreach effort to all veterans and all community members in the region, focusing on conservation and the joys of fly fishing. He is also active in creating access for vets on specific waters for fly fishing enjoyment. Larry has an extensive background in education and instructional design from Penn State University. He retired from several director positions in 2018 and devotes much of his time and energy to a range of service projects.