Fly fishing program mixes historical and modern perspectives

MILFORD — Fly fishing demonstrations and exhibits at Grey Towers will show Gifford Pinchot’s enthusiasm for the sport and how it helped shape his ideas on conservation.
Many know of Pinchot as the eminent conservation thinker of the early 20th century. His vision helped introduce scientific forestry to America and he served as first chief of the US Forest Service. But where did he gain his inspiration? How did he shape his vision? By fly fishing right here in the healthy waters of Pike County.
The program will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, May 7. Appropriate for ages 8 through adult, the program will blend historical perspective with today’s modern sport. It will include some lectures, an exhibit, films, and a fly fishing demo on the lawn of Grey Towers, the same place where Gifford and his friends and family practiced their casting.
The lectures will include an historical perspective of fly fishing, and visitors can see some of Gifford’s fly fishing equipment, including the newly renovated canoe that he loved to fish from. Local fly fishing instructor/guide and wildlife photographer Nancy Hopping will lead the casting demonstrations, beginning at 11 a.m.
The event will be held rain or shine. It is sponsored by the US Forest Service and the Grey Towers Heritage Association with support from Cabela’s. It's all free, but group size is limited. Registration is required
For more details and to register, email Grey Towers Heritage Association at info@greytowers.org or call 570-296-9625. Let Grey Towers know if you need equipment for the demo.