Becoming a Fly Dressing Instructor
Tying flies enhances the knowledge and overall experience of learning to fly fish. Matching the hatch, imitating food sources and creating effective lures is a requisite skill of fly fishing, and your skills as a fly dresser along with your knowledge of entomology will be tested to a required standard. As with any sport, practice and training are essential to keep one’s skills tuned to a high level. GAIA will offer you opportunities to work in the company of your peers to achieve whatever level you desire.
A successful candidate must demonstrate that they are able to employ their tying skills to create specific flies that represent the actual flies fish are feeding upon. They must show a real understanding of the different entomology groups and forage fish and explain what techniques and materials can be used to develop fishing patterns that will catch fish.
The GAIC for Fly Dressing is available to anyone who wishes to expand their passion, skill and knowledge of fly tying. Of course it's not only about being a highly competent fly dresser, individuals must develop their communication and hone presentation skills to a point where they can effectively demonstrate and pass on their expertise to others.
We offer everyone who wishes to pursue this qualification encouragement. However, it is essential to be aware that a great deal of time and effort is likely to be required to meet the GAIC standard. That said, you will be able to set your own pace and choose when you are ready to sit for assessments. Working with your mentor will enable you to assess your progress and readiness effectively.
What we can promise is our commitment to see you succeed and give you all the support you need in order for you to reach your goals.
Step by step guide to becoming a GAIA Fly Dressing Instructor
Fill out the Membership enquiry form, it only takes a moment. Please note that applicants for "Junior Membership" must be between 16 and 18 years of age at time of application.
The Associate Members' Coordinator will be in touch. They'll answer any questions you may have and provide further information if needed. They offer helpful, friendly advice that will allow you to make an informed decision as to whether becoming a GAIA instructor is right for you?
- Submit your formal application and pay subscription fees
- Complete any necessary background checks
- Further reading
- Your Official GAIA Portfolio
- Copy of relevant Syllabi
- Your GAIA Members Website login
- Members' Forum access
- GAIA Social media access
- Car Stickers etc
- Discover local resources
- Source appropriate mentors
- Start your training
- Begin building your portfolio
Complete your GAIA Portfolio develop and demonstrate your knowledge of:
- Safety and risk assessment requirements
- Learner types and coaching techniques
- Lesson planning and delivery
- Monitoring and feedback
- General knowledge on fishing, fly dressing and equipment
Work on your syllabus:
- Get a thorough understanding of the syllabus
- Develop fly dressing skills and knowledge to meet the standard
- Consult with mentors and get pre-assessment check, flies will be submitted at this stage
- Arrange assessment date
- Final preparations
Your practical assessment will be conducted by two GAIA Assessors unassociated with your training thus far. This generally takes 2 - 3 hours. The results of the assessment are then submitted for review by the Lead Assessor to ensure consistency in standards. Should all three Assessors be in agreement of your ability to meet the required standard then you will be awarded a GAIC (Game Angling Instructor's Certificate)
- Start Practising as a GAIC instructor
- GAIC Certification and patch
- Join GAIC Instructor database
- Full insurance package
- Career Path Development
