The Quest of An Urban Angler

Educational Experiences In A City Setting

With the proper amount of research, even city slickers can seek out convenient opportunities to fish and network with other urban anglers. A recent visit to the Orvis Company Store on bustling Ontario Street in downtown Chicago proved that it is possible to foster an affinity for fly fishing while surrounded by a sea of concrete.

Women's Outdoor Life met with Thomas Chmielewski at the Ontario Street Orvis Store and learned that Orvis hosts free fly fishing classes (fly fishing 101 and 201) throughout the summer at various locations nationwide. All ages are welcome to attend the event, but those under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. You can bring the whole family and experience first hand what fly fishing is all about. A list of class dates and specifics can be found at: www.orvis.com

Once you "graduate" from fly fishing 101 with Orvis, stop by and visit the Elliott Donnelley Chicago Chapter of Trout Unlimited, which meets on the first Tuesday of each month at Brehon Pub at 731 N. Wells Street. The group not only plans fishing trips and encourages a passion for the outdoors, but also actively promotes conservation efforts to preserve our nation's fisheries. Learn more about Trout Unlimited by visiting www.edtu.org

Be sure to add at least one or two of these events to your summer activity list. After all, it's been said that even the worst day of fishing beats the best day at work. Tight lines ladies!