What a weekend! The Orvis Beginners Saltwater Weekend on Hayling Island delivered everything we could have asked for… glorious sunshine, determined anglers, some challenging winds and more than a few hard-earned bass.
Saturday morning kicked off with an inspiring set of presentations from Glynn Pirie and Ashley Ursell, who shared their personal journeys into saltwater fly fishing, followed by a practical and engaging Saltwater Fly Fishing 101 session with Joe Walker. Attendees headed out for hands-on casting workshops with expert AAPGAI instructors, brought together by Orvis Endorsed Guide, Brett O'Connor, setting the tone for a weekend of learning and progression.
Despite some harsh winds on Saturday, our two beginner groups tackled their saltwater fly fishing adventure head-on. Group 1 headed out with guides to Ferry Road, where they battled gusts but still managed to find fish and hone their casting skills. Meanwhile, Group 2 embraced the muddy terrain of Budd’s Wall and got stuck into the action with a great attitude and a lot of laughs. As always, our guides provided exceptional support, offering coaching and tactical tips throughout the day. The wind may have added an extra layer of challenge, but it also brought the group together.
After a full afternoon on the water, we were treated to a brilliant evening social, hosted our amazing Friend of Orvis – James from Lakedown Brewing Company. With beer flowing and freshly cooked pizzas from the team of chefs at Reeko’s, the atmosphere was relaxed and full of energy. It was the perfect way for attendees and guides to wind down, share insights, and get to know each other.
We also took the opportunity to give back: we raised funds for Shane Davies' cause, Angling Mentors, which supports young people through fishing. A big thank you to YETI Europe for generously donating tumblers to sell in support of this important initiative.
Sunday brought calmer conditions and even more bass action. We were thrilled to welcome Zoe Dupuy, who joined us from the other side of the fence, this time as a guide! Zoe shared her enthusiasm:
"It was a joy to work with such an enthusiastic group of anglers (and guides), most of whom had freshwater fly fished before with this being their first time fly fishing in saltwater. And where better to learn than a sunny Hayling Island?!"
Zoe spotted bass and mullet feeding in a lagoon and guided two eager anglers into position to target them. One of those anglers, Ben, showed true grit and determination. He fished non-stop for hours, and his relentless spirit earned him the title of “Most Enthusiastic Angler”, a well-deserved nod to a core angling quality: persistence.
What’s Next? Join Us at the Orvis Saltwater Fly Fishing Festival
If you caught the bug this weekend (and we know many of you did), the next step on your saltwater journey awaits: the Orvis Saltwater Fly Fishing Festival, coming this June.
Held once again on beautiful Hayling Island, the festival is an incredible opportunity to connect with the saltwater fly fishing community, challenge your skills, and fish alongside some of the most experienced anglers and guides in the UK. Whether you're aiming to catch your first mullet or just soak in the buzz of the event, it’s the perfect follow-on for any beginner and one not to miss.
Finally, a huge thank you to:
- Our passionate and patient guides for sharing their knowledge and attention.
- Lakedown Brewing Company for the outstanding social event.
- YETI® Europe for their generous support of a great cause.
- And, most importantly, our attendees, your willingness to learn, your positive energy, and your commitment made the weekend unforgettable.
We’re proud to be part of your saltwater fly fishing journey and this is just the beginning.