Classes

Oyster hours:
24/7: on line
Email & Phone: Mon-Sat 8am-6pm
On Main Street: By Appointment
To the public: Thursday - Saturday
And class weeks when we are not varnishing.

Q: Do we actually finish the class with 100% complete and ready to fish, handcrafted bamboo fly rod?

A: Yes, you leave the class with a 100% complete and ready to fish, handcrafted bamboo fly rod.

Q: I have no experience in woodworking. Will I be able to do this?

A: Yes, we teach more bamboo fly rod making students than anyone in the world, and no one has ever failed to complete a rod they can be proud of for generations.

Q: What size and length rod will I make in the class?

A: Because you have your own individual workbench and planing form, you may build any size, weight and length 2-piece rod that you desire. We have tapers o-12 wt. In fact, our saltwater tapers (8-12) are almost as popular as our freshwater tapers.

Q: How Do I Sign Up For Your Bamboo Fly Rod Making Class?

A: Visit our Oyster Bamboo Fly Rod Making Class page and sign up today!

Q: The Classes Are Full. What's The Deal?

A: Our classes normally fill 18 months in advance. We have a wait list that we frequently refer to. It normally requires flexibility on your part. Sign Up For Our Waitlist Here.

Q: I am coming from afar. When should I arrive for the class?

A: We suggest staying the day before the class to get settled in before beginning your week as a bamboo fly rod maker.

Q: Is there a shuttle from the airport that runs to Blue Ridge, GA?

A: Yes. Mountain Transportation: 706-851-9465

Q: What should I do to prepare myself for the class?

A: The only preparation you need is to bring leather work gloves (see image) and Oyster apron. This class is so in-depth that it is best to come as "unprepared "as possible...except for those gloves.

Q: Where can I get those gloves?

A: They are simple leather work gloves (avoid bamboo splinters)...you may purchase them any local hardware store.

Q: What time does class start in the morning and how long does each day last?

A: The doors to the shop open at 8:30 AM. The length of each day varies each class. Expect to leave anywhere from late afternoon to dinner.

Q: How late does the class run on the last day?

A: As your final coat of varnish dries, expect to have your final session at the shop to pick your rods up at 8:30 pm

Q: What can I expect each day?

A: Once you enter the Oyster workshop, you are a bamboo rod maker. Because we complete a bamboo fly rod (100%. with 3 coats of varnish) in such a short time, the days are long but productive and fun.

Q: Where do your students come from? I live out-of-state.

A: We have had students from every state (except North Dakota) attend our class. In fact, we regularly have students fly in from Europe, New Zealand, Australia, South America and Canada! The Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the most conveniently located airport (it is a straight shot... about an hour and a half drive-all highway). Because this airport is technically the "busiest airport in the world, the flights from anywhere are more frequent and less expensive.

Q: What is the weather like?

A: Perfect every day...we wish! Actually, Blue Ridge has gorgeous weather most of the year. Because we are a mountain town, our days are warm and it cools down in the the evenings.

Q: Where is your shop located?

A: 494 East Main Street in historic downtown Blue Ridge, GA 30513.

Q. Where do I eat during the class?

A: We have coffee brewing non-stop... really...we frequently forget to turn off the coffee maker overnight. Please plan to stay relatively late in Blue Ridge on graduation night as your rods receive their last coat of varnish. During meal breaks, most students opt to explore the numerous quaint eateries within easy walking distance in the historic district where we are located. Of course there are also the "usual" chain type restaurants within a mile or two of the shop.

Q. What do I wear?

A. Think comfortable. Wear shoes with rubber soles. If you wear shorts, make certain they are long.