Following last year’s success and high demand, a Bay of Plenty ‘women only’ fly-fishing workshop is coming back this year, to teach ladies the basic skills of fly fishing.

With only 20 spots available, Women on the Fly regional co-ordinator Jill Sweeney is on the lookout for more women wanting to learn the niche skill.

The two-day workshop aims to introduce women to fly fishing in a supportive and encouraging environment.

“The event last year was planned for 15 women, but we increased that to 20 to accommodate the unprecedented demand,” said Sweeney.

The limited spots at 2024’s event meant 40 women went on a waiting list, of which 11 have signed up for this year’s event.

Sweeney said this demonstrates patience and enthusiasm for learning this sport and experiencing its benefits.

“One of the women is coming back for a second time,” she said.

Since last year’s event, the women have stayed in touch via a social media group chat and often organise events and fishing trips together.

“All of the women had the opportunity to join the Women on The Fly online community – around 600 women nationwide can now connect in a safe space, to have support and grow in their fishing journeys.

Jill Sweeney said the workshop aims to introduce women to fly fishing in a supportive and encouraging environment. Photo / Brydie Thompson

“The event last year, run by myself and members of the Tauranga Anglers club, was so successful and oversubscribed [that] Fish & Game saw an opportunity to get more women fishing in this region, hence inviting me to run another event,” said Sweeney.

A participant from last year’s event said: “I learnt so much and came away feeling confident enough to go and buy some fishing gear, join a club and start fishing”.

Designed with small learning groups to create a safe space for beginners, the event makes fly fishing accessible even to those who have never tried the sport before.

“The small learning groups meant I could ask my questions and have one-on-one when needed,” said another participant.

Participants will learn from experienced mentors and tutors from Tauranga and Rotorua fishing clubs, Fish & Game NZ fishery officers who will share their knowledge and expertise.

“I was blown away by the generosity of time and patience given to us newbies,” said a participant from 2024’s event.

“I honestly enjoyed everything about it and I am still talking constantly about it.”

Eastern Fish & Game is partnering with WoTF to host the second women’s only fly-fishing workshop in the Bay of Plenty Eastern Region on May 24-25 at Ngongotahā, Rotorua.

Registrations are open – enquire by emailing Jill at: sweeneyjill5@gmail.com