where fly fishing turns into pure magic
About Antoine
After teaching at the Orvis fly fishing flagship school in Manchester, VT, and educating thousands of beginner anglers, I now offer my knowledge of fly fishing on the Farmington River in Connecticut, along with a variety of guided trips, instructional classes, all catered to your individual expectations.
With me, you will learn a number of cutting-edge fly fishing styles, techniques and philosophies, brought to you from my close affiliation with the French National Fly Fishing Team, and directly from its members. Some of those members are multiple time Fly Fishing World Champions. I learn from the best of the best do that I can teach all that knowledge to you. It simply doesn’t get any better than that.
I practice and teach:
Dry Fly Fishing
Experience the thrill of watching trout rise to the surface to strike your fly. My dry fly fishing sessions teach you how to select a fly, present it with lifelike precision, and develop the patience needed for the perfect surface take. Learn the secrets of targeting actively feeding fish and mastering one of fly fishing’s most rewarding techniques.
Traditional Nymphing
Master the art of nymph fishing, an essential skill for targeting trout in deeper waters. My nymphing approach covers reading water, detecting subtle bites, and effectively presenting nymph patterns. This technique is ideal for anglers looking to expand their versatility on the river and increase their catch rates in various conditions.
Euro Nymphing
Learn the high-contact, highly effective Euro nymphing style favored by competitive anglers. I introduce the fine points of using longer rods, lighter lines, and specialized leaders to keep flies in the strike zone. With an emphasis on technique and finesse, Euro nymphing can help you catch more fish and feel even the subtlest strikes.
Techniques Used by Fly Fishing World Champions
Get a firsthand look at techniques practiced by the world’s best anglers. I incorporate methods honed by my French friends, international fly fishing champions. These insights give you a massive an edge on the water and are ideal for those seeking to elevate their game to a whole new level.
Sight Fishing
Engage in the visual excitement of sight fishing, where success depends on spotting, stalking, and presenting to individual fish. My sight fishing sessions focus on reading the water, honing your observation skills, and mastering the delicate casts needed to avoid spooking fish. It’s an immersive way to connect with the river and learn to think like a trout.
Fly Line Casting Methods of the Pros
From delicate dry fly presentations to powerful streamer casts, I will help you build a casting toolkit used by professional anglers. I teach a range of casts to help you handle every possible condition and approach fish effectively, no matter the scenario.
Dry Dropper
Combine the best of dry fly fishing and nymphing with the dry dropper technique. I will teach you how to effectively rig and fish this setup, which pairs a floating dry fly with a sub-surface nymph, increasing your chances of enticing fish feeding at different levels. This versatile method is ideal for anglers wanting a highly productive setup on any stretch of the river.
I customize every outing to your skill level and goals
I cordially welcome all levels and abilities of fly fishermen. Connecticut casting lessons are specially designed to your individual level — from basic casting to video analysis of a complex double haul. Fly tying classes are provided depending on the angler’s interests (dry, wet, streamers or nymph). Every trip is tailored to ensure an enjoyable and successful experience. Get in touch, let’s chat about your preferences, and let’s go catch some fish.
My success depends completely on yours. Looking forward to fishing together,
– Antoine
Memories From the River
