Hello, my name is Dan Brown, and I’m the fly fishing instructor and guide at Seven Pines Lodge. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a person who is interested in an introduction to the exciting sport of fly fishing, treating yourself to patient casting instruction and a guided trip along Knapp Creek is the perfect choice for you.

It is a misconception that fly casting and the art of fishing with a fly rod is an elusive sport requiring a long learning process. In fact, gaining basic casting and angling skills is not a confusing, intimidating, or lengthy process. It has always been my goal to "de-mystify" and simplify this enjoyable sport, while providing anglers a productive and successful day on the water.

Within an hour, you will be be executing both the basic cast and the roll cast, tracking the fly as it drifts with the current, managing the line slack, and implementing my tips for outsmarting the fish.

Knapp Creek is a unique area fishery in that rainbow, brown, and brook trout inhabit its waters. These fish reproduce naturally and are found in high numbers within Seven Pines’ property. Knapp Creek is spring-fed (its source located a short distance from the lodge) which provides the resident trout a near-perfect ecosystem in which to thrive.

Consistent with most Midwest trout water, April, May, and June can provide Knapp Creek anglers outstanding trout fishing. Ideal water temperatures throughout the day can cause the trout to feed aggressively. It is during this time of year that individuals new to the sport, after receiving fly-casting instruction, have an opportunity to catch numbers of fish.

During the months of July and August, the creek often fishes best during the morning and late afternoon hours. Milder weather in September cools the late-summer water and can make the fishing similar to springtime fishing, oftentimes with fast and furious action.

Seven Pines, with its unique accommodations and 100-year history as a world class fly-fishing lodge, is such a beautiful place to stay and fish that I guarantee you will have a great time!

To book a 3- or 4-hour session, give me call at 651-465-5407

Tight lines!

Dan Brown