The Virginia Fly Fishing & Wine Festival is the largest event of its kind in the country and attracts fly anglers from across the United States and the Mid-Atlantic in particular. Nowhere else can anglers learn about the quiet sport in such a beginner-friendly environment. The unique event combines fine wine tasting, microbrewery beer, live music, and everything you ever wanted to know about fly fishing but were afraid to ask.

The mission of the Virginia Fly Fishing & Wine Festival is to introduce as many people to the sport of fly fishing as possible, especially young families with children. They do this believing that people, who are connected to the outdoors in their recreational activities, are more inclined to protect the natural resources they enjoy. Bring your family, relax, take a casting class, and pick up a new sport that the entire family can enjoy.

The 2016 Virginia Fly Fishing & Wine Festival will be held at the Meadow Event Park, just a few miles outside of Richmond, Virginia, on April 9-10, 2016. Opening hours are from 09.00 – 17.00 hours daily. The festival — the largest event of its kind in the country, drawing fly anglers from as far away as New York and Georgia — appeals to anglers of all ages and stages. Festival attendees listen to lectures from various experts and practice hands-on skills at the two-day, family-friendly event. Several wineries from throughout the Old Dominion provide free wine tastings for those 21 and older. Last year’s festival enjoyed a record turnout, and the event was flooded with children.

New this year is an expanded kayak demonstration area sponsored by Wild River Outfitters of Virginia Beach. Those who have enjoyed the outdoor festival environment for years can rest easy: Although the new facility will enable all vendors to be under roof, the events center is surrounded by extensive grounds suitable for outdoor classes and wine tastings.

Website: www.vaflyfishingfestival.com