The Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education in Pisgah Forest, N.C., offers fly fishing classes throughout the year. Equipment and materials are provided. A $20 registration fee is fully refundable upon attendance.

Information about some of the upcoming classes is given below. Go online to check for availability at https://ncpaws.org/reservations/pisgah/CalendarView.aspx.

May 15, 2010 10 a.m.- 3 p.m.

This is the perfect introductory class for beginners. Topics include casting theory, mechanics and practice techniques. The centers experienced instructors allow you to learn at your own pace as they teach the overhead cast, roll cast and the art of false casting. Advanced instruction is available upon request.

This class is held at Lake Imaging in DuPont State Forest. All equipment and materials are provided. Bring a lunch. A $20 registration fee is fully refundable upon class attendance. Ages 12 and up.

July 9, 2010 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Join experienced instructors for a day of fun as you learn the basics of fly-fishing. Topics include appropriate equipment, knots, casting techniques and aquatic entomology. Equipment and materials provided. Bring a lunch and non-slip shoes or waders. Limited to six participants. A $20 registration fee is fully refundable upon class attendance. Ages 12 and up.

Fri., April 9 thru Sun., April 11

Here is a great event this weekend for women only, offering three days of fly fishing instructions. This class is an extension of the Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW) program. Learn the basics of fly-fishing knots, fly-tying, casting, and aquatic entomology on Saturday. On Sunday, conclude the weekend with fishing on the Davidson River. Wear clothing suitable for entering the water and bring non-slip shoes or waders. Equipment, materials, and meals provided. Ages 18 and up.

To register contact B.B. Gillen at 919-218-3638. The group will be camping at the Davidson River Campground.

I did a short video on fly fishing the Davidson River. Check it out at the Bulletins website: www.tryondailybulletin.com.

If would like to get a photo of that big fish that you just caught email it to me, with your name, the size of the fish (length and weight) and where you caught it and I will put it in the column! Email it to garywclark@bellsouth.net.

Mountain biking

The Southside Park Mountain Bike Trail is a 5-to-12 mile trail, depending on the loop. Its a very natural setting with areas of difficulty and excitement for beginner to expert.

Here is one review written on this trail:

reviewed by a rider identified online as wanderingpops: I certainly consider myself a capable and true mountain biker! I rode this trail yesterday and loved it. NO there arent jumps and berms but you cant say someone that isnt a mountain biker could ride it. Good mix, I thought. Pretty fast in places, climbs not long, fun stuff.

Directions: Take Hwy. 56 past Camp Croft State Park approximately 2 miles. You will see the sign on the left.Turn and go approximately half a mile.