LEC MONTHLY MEETING MAY 15TH AT THE BURCHFIELD NATURE AND ARTS CENTER, 2001 UNION ROAD, WEST SENECA, NY
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Beginners fly tying and Social Hour will be from 6:00PM-7:00PM. A general meeting and presentation will be at 7:00PM-8:30 PM. Featured fly will be the “Pheasant Tail Nymph” instructed by Bill Trowman. Casting instruction by Al Kerner and Rusty Hardiman.
Our feature presentation at 7:00 will be “Smallmouth Bass on the Fly” by guest speaker Kirk Klingensmith. Kirk is longtime member and past president of Twin Tiers/Five Rivers Chapter of FFI in Corning New York. A well traveled fly fisher here in North and South America Kirk has also contributed to many books and articles on fly fishing. This is a must see especially in our area where we have such a great smallmouth fishery.
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Smallmouth Bass on the Fly
Fly Fishing for Smallmouth
Smallmouth bass are my favorite species to pursue with a fly rod, and I've spent over 55 years chasing them across the country, from the rocky streams of Maine to the winding rivers of Virginia and the expansive waters of Minnesota—and beyond.
In this presentation, I share my passion for smallmouth bass and the tactics that have proven effective for me over the years. We'll explore how smallmouth differ from other species typically pursued with a fly rod, and how to adapt your fishing strategies accordingly. You'll gain insights into the seasonal behaviors of smallmouth and how they influence their feeding patterns and habitat choices.
We'll also dive into the interplay between fly selection and fishing tactics, and how combining the right approach with the right flies can greatly improve your chances of success. Whether you prefer wade fishing or fishing from a watercraft, our region offers incredible smallmouth opportunities. I'll share recommendations for maximizing your experience from various platforms, including boats, kayaks, canoes, inflatables, and drift boats.
Kirk Klingensmith served as President of the Twin Tiers Five Rivers FFi Chapter from 2008 to 2024. A life member of both Trout Unlimited (TU) and Fly Fishers International (FFi), Kirk has been fly fishing for 55 years. While he enjoys fly fishing for a variety of species, smallmouth bass hold a special place in his heart. Each year, he dedicates 50-60 days to chasing bronzebacks, with 30-40 of those days spent floating the Chemung and Susquehanna Rivers in his Hyde drift boat.
Kirk retired from a 37 year career Corning Inc, as an Engineering Fellow. He led technology for glass melting and forming, for LCD displays, optical fiber making, He holds 24 patents.
Please join us for a unique demonstration.
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Welcome to Lake Erie Chapter
of Fly Fishers International
Welcome to the official website of the Lake Erie Chapter- Fly Fishers International. It is the goal of the chapter to promote the sport of fly fishing through education and conservation. By joining the Lake Erie Chapter-FFI you will have the opportunity to contribute to fishery conservation and restoration for all fish in all waters.
President’s Message
Fly fishing is plagued by the notion that it’s too difficult, too expensive, and not worth the bother. We can overcome your anxiety of beginning fly fishing by offering years of experience stream side and on the fly-tying bench. Our Chapter's mission is teaching fly fishing.
All our meetings and outings are directed to expanding knowledge of the sport. We offer online and in person fly tying instruction twice a month. Our programs are taught by a knowledgeable staff of instructors. In time you will enjoy the camaraderie of our members and with their help take away the trial-and-error period of learning something new. Enjoy our website (e.g. Events Page) Give us a email and start enjoying a sport that will change your life.
Tight Lines, Al Kerner
Contact the Lake Erie Chapter-FFI
We are always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.