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Locals Partner to Present Fly Tying Classes

by | Mar 3, 2015 | Business

Story and photos by James Roberson

Keith and April Peterson opened River Rock Outfitter at 915 Sophia Street in November 2014. Their downtown Fredericksburg store overlooks the Rappahannock River, and the Peterson’s are committed to making sure their customers are ready and equipped to experience all the river has to offer.

They recently hosted two fly tying classes in their shop. The Falmouth Flats Fly Fishers club taught the classes. “Fly tying was our introduction to the sport,” April said. “The classes provided an opportunity to introduce our customers to fly fishing and our outfitter.”

Fly tying can be communal, and presents a great way to meet others, understand the mechanics of how a fly works, and spark an interest in learning more. Nine attended the first class, which began with a brief overview of fly tying basics and then dove into the handywork and art of tying. Three experienced teachers were on hand to guide students through the steps of creating the Wooly Bugger fly, a great option for our own Rappahannock River fish. The second class a week later introduced a few more detailed flies, including a local favorite, the Sir Bruce.

As a Marine Corps family, the Peterson’s had lived in the Fredericksburg region several times throughout the years. In 2008 Keith found himself assigned here again. They knew it was where they wanted to set their roots. “We fell in love with the small-town charm and history,” said April.

They immediately recognized that there wasn’t a local outfitter. “We’re passionate about the outdoors, and with our business experience and education, we knew that we could build a business,” she said.

Learn more about River Rock Outfitter and future classes on their website on their Facebook page. They’re also on Twitter @RROutfitter

Hope to see you out on the river! — James

Editor’s Note: James Roberson so enjoyed the fly tying workshops he asked if he could write about them for Fredericksburg Today. He is the owner/manager of Roberson’s Music at 1300 Jefferson Davis Hwy. in Fredericksburg, and 2608 Jefferson Davis Hwy. in Stafford.

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