Cast your line for steelheading success

Steelhead fishing season is kicking into gear now! As the temperature continues to drop, trout are migrating from the deep, cool waters of Lake Erie back to our local streams and creeks. Ten percent of steelhead trout fishermen will catch 90% of the fish! Are you one of the top 10%?

This October, The Backpackers Shop in Sheffield Village once again presents its popular series of Steelhead Fly Fishing Expos. The shop is legendary for knowledgeable outdoor enthusiasts who are always ready and willing to share their advice and experience. And this same devotion to excellence is carried through to the ongoing series of Steelhead Fly Fishing Expos. Attendees leave the event armed with everything they need to know to work towards being part of that coveted 10% of expert fishermen.

New this year, Lake Erie Nature & Science Center will join forces with The Backpackers Shop and host the expo at their Bay Village facility. The spacious Center is located on the wooded banks of the Porter Creek within the Huntington Reservation, where steelhead trout are plentiful this time of year as they journey from nearby Lake Erie. Proceeds from the event will benefit the nonprofit Center, as it continues its 60-plus year mission to connect people with the natural world through its ongoing series of nature-themed programs for children, teens and lifelong learners.

The 2011 Steelhead Fly Fishing Expo runs from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 9, and advance tickets are on sale now for $12/person at The Backpackers Shop and at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center. Remaining tickets will be available at the door for $15/person at the Center, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village.

The expo's fly fishing experts will provide a full day’s worth of insider knowledge that benefits amateurs and pros alike. This year, learn the lay of the land in our local streams with John Rochus and pick up a few key techniques for fly fishing expertise with Jeff Liskay. Apparel and gear can be crucial to your success, so Tony Ferrie will have you dressing for steelheading while Jerry Darkes will get you up to speed with all you’ll need equipment-wise. Plus Eric Lindstrom, Tom Fabbro and others will get you out of your seat for hands-on demonstrations on fly casting, knot-tying and more.

Now is the perfect time to take up the sport, here in Northeast Ohio. The Backpackers Shop and Lake Erie Nature & Science Center will make sure that you're ready!

For details and tickets, call Lake Erie Nature & Science Center at 440-871-2900 or The Backpackers Shop at 440-934-5345.