Bike Fishing: Beginner Retreat
$1,100.00
Fly fishing and bicycles have something mesmerizing in common: both deepen our experiences in the great outdoors, challenging us to listen, look and intuit our surroundings in a way that brings us closer to the natural world. Come with us as we fuse our passions on a 3-day pedaling and casting adventure on some iconic PNW rivers. We’re eager to share days of exploring meandering rivers and railroad turn rail-trail, the Paluose the Cascade Trail, honing our fishy senses, and escaping city life with you.
“This was transformative. I didn't grow up around fishing or camping, so to be able to ease into it and be in a beginner-friendly environment that didn't assume any knowledge made the experience so much better. - Ellen”
Official Info
You’ll start your adventure by meeting your Swift Adventure Co. (SACo) guides, Jason Goods and Hailey Brey, in Seattle, WA. We will shuttle you, by vehicle, to your basecamp in Cle Elum, WA. Once we establish camp, our flyfishing guide, Hailey, will walk us through the fundamentals of fly fishing from the art of reading water down to getting a knack for casting.
Over the next couple days we will set out by bicycle, using van support when needed, to explore the fishy water of the Yakima and Cle Elum rivers.
Each evening will find us at a camp where we’ll relax together with delicious open-air meals and good times around a roaring fire to wrap up the day.
Schedule:
Friday, Meet in Seattle, WA and get swept away to fishy water and winding gravel roads near Cle Elum, WA. Once settled at camp, we spent the afternoon learning some basics.
Saturday, After a hearty breakfast, we will load up our bikes with snacks and fishing gear ready to spend the day out advancing our skills, exploring the river, and hopefully catching a fish or two.
Sunday, After breakfast and packing up camp we will talk about bugs and how to identify them and how to select the right one for the water. Late morning we will hit the water for a couple more hours before making our way back into town.
Skills you will gain include:
- Fundamentals of fly casting & basic casting techniques.
- Reading Water
- Basic knots
- Insect ID & Fly selection
Experience needed:
- Comfortable riding 10-20 miles
- Eagerness to learn and have a good time in the outdoors.
No fishing experience needed.
Coming from out-of-town? Don’t hesitate to contact us about lodging recommendations and travel logistics, we’re happy to help! Travel without the hassle of bike cases and heavy gear. We have premium gear and bicycles for rent, and all Field Experience guests receive special rental rates.
Feeling giddy about your upcoming adventure? We are! Here are a few of our favorite books, podcasts and resources ’bout fly fishing and the magic of the Northwest.
The River Why, by James Duncan
The Fly Tapes, Episode 14 with Nathaniel Riverhorse Nakadate
Salmon Dreams, Dylan Tomine
Please don’t hesitate to ask if you have any questions regarding, logistics, schedule, trip details etc. Howdy@swiftadventure.co
Please Review our Cancelation and Covid-19 policies
What's Included
- Escape to a beautiful place
- Expert fly fishing instruction and education
- Fly fishing supplies-tackle, rod & reel.
- Bicycle logistic and support
- Support and gear vehicle
- All camp meal, snack, & refreshments (some restaurant and store food not included)
Gear/Supplies You Should Bring
- Fishing license- https://wdfw.wa.gov/licenses/fishing
- Polarized sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Bicycle & Helmet (rentals available)
- Bicycle water bottles (available for purchase)
- Personal camp gear & clothing (pack list included upon registration)
- Waders & wading boots (rental options listed on packing list)
