Loading...Annual event to draw anglers from across Southeast for expert instruction by fly-fishing champion Kevin Howell
HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. - With the weather warming and fish rising, anglers have a unique opportunity to not only hone their fly-fishing skills but also explore the deep spiritual connection this quiet encounter with nature provides May 8-12 during the annual Fly-fishing Retreat at Kanuga Conferences Inc.
The retreat emphasizes both fly-fishing education, under the instruction of nationally-known fly tier Kevin Howell, and the wisdom and meditative qualities surrounding the sport.
"It's just a great place of solitude," said retreat coordinator and chaplain the Rev. Mark Wilson of Fairhope, Ala. "I think one of the most important spirituality dimensions about this retreat is not only learning how to fly-fish but also just being a part of creation."
The Sunday-Thursday retreat begins with two days of hands-on instruction from Howell, owner of Davidson River Outfitters in Pisgah Forest, N.C., and winner of the 2007 Fly-fishing Masters national championship. Participants will then have the chance to apply their skills on the nearby Davidson River, one of Trout Unlimited magazine's Top 100 rivers in the nation.
Throughout the retreat participants also will have the chance to relax, while enjoying the peace and solitude of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
"It's where contemplation and action come together. They're not opposed to each other," said Bert Baetz of Austin, Texas, who participated in the 2010 retreat.
Affiliated with the Episcopal Church since 1928, Kanuga is a 1,400-acre camp and conference center in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Hendersonville, N.C. Financial aid and discounted rates for commuters are available. For more information, visit www.kanuga.org or call 828-692-9136.
