FAQs

Here are some of our most common questions and some answers. Please feel free to contact us about any questions you might have, also.

  • What fishing equipment should I bring?
    • You don't have to bring anything. We highly recommend bringing at least your vest or pack that you normally fish out of. This lets you work with gear that you are familiar with. Bring your flies even if you don't think they are appropriate. You might be surprised. A nine foot five weight is the standard Western rod. A six weight for streamers is nice, and we will get the chance to fish some smaller rods, also - like a shorter 3 or 4 weight. Long, soft rods are nice for DePuy's Spring creek. A wading net is a good idea, also. You will want something to wet wade in - wading sandals or wading boots work great. Waders are required for DePuy's, but we do have bootfoot waders available for you to use if you don't want to bring your own. We do not have wet wading shoes to loan out unfortunately.
  • What other stuff should I bring?
    • You will need clothes for a week long fishing trip. Don't go buy anything just for the trip. But if you have fishing pants and fishing shirts they are the best thing to have. Enough so that you can look like a guide! There are some laundry facilities available. Towels, soap, and shampoo are provided. Sunblock is important, but available at our store, also.
  • When should I arrive and depart?
    • Plan on arriving on the afternoon of the day the class is scheduled. If you get in late on that day it is ok. We don't have anything formal planned for your arrival day. just use that day to get settled in and fish Merrell Lake if you have time. Dinner is provided that night around 7:00 pm. Departure time is by 10:30 on the final day. Earlier than that is okay if your travel plans require it. We don't have any official activities that day, either. Breakfast is provided that day.
  • What if I want to arrive early or stay longer?
    • Arrangements can be made to stay at our lodge before or after the school. You can look at www.hubbardslodge.com for more information on this option. You do not have to meet the 3 night minimum that we normally require at the lodge.
  • Can I bring someone who isn't attending the school?
    • You will need to make arrangements with the lodge for additional people. you can get more information at www.hubbardslodge.com. We might be able to have you room with your guest but it depends on our availability, etc.
  • Do I receive a diploma or certificate?
    • We issue a diploma for all students that complete the course. Students that are ready to guide will receive a letter of recommendation from us. All students will receive feedback about their skill level and what they need to work on. We act as a reference for our students, also.
  • Will I have a job when I graduate?
    • No! It is important to realize that guide school doesn't automatically get you a job! Students will need to apply for jobs that they are interested in and we will help in any way that we can with this process. We also have businesses that we work with that hire students to guide. And we occasionally hire students at the lodge.
  • How hard is it get a job and how soon can I get one?
    • Most students find work for the season following their school. We will talk about different options during the school. Occasionally students find jobs the same season as the school. There are a lot of different options out there and we will help find the one that is best for you.
  • Is the school still a good idea if I don't want to be a guide?
    • Many of our students don't plan to ever guide. They want to become better fly fishers, better teachers, or just have a fun week. We always enjoy these students and they are always welcome.
  • What if I have special diet requirements?
    • We can handle most dietary requests. Please contact us directly if you have concerns about diet.
  • What about health issues or physical challenges?
    • Our small class sizes let us deal with most challenges very well. Please contact us for more information about this to make sure that we are on the same page.
  • Can you teach skills not covered in the regular curriculum?
    • Normally we can find time to cover speicific skills outside of the regular curriculum. But contact us and we can talk about your specific request(s).

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  • The classroom - looks like everyone is out fishing...

  • The view of Paradise Valley from the school porch

  • The main lodge and our office / fly shop

  • A couple of our drift boats waiting for students

  • Get that fly tied on! They're rising!

  • Inside our fly shop