OUTDOOR BRIEFS

ANGLER EDUCATION

Fly-fishing and fly-tying classes set

The Nevada Department of Wildlife is offering a pair of free fly-fishing classes; one of the classes is a fly-tying workshop and the other is an introductory fly-fishing class just for men. The latter is being offered in honor of Fathers Day.

Those who would like to learn the art of fly-tying can do so at a workshop scheduled for June 21 at 4747 Vegas Drive in the State Parks Conference Room. The workshop will run from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Students will learn the basics of tying flies that have been proven on Nevada waters. Materials and equipment will be provided. Registration is limited.

An introductory fly-fishing class is on tap for June 23 at Floyd Lamb State Park. This men's only class is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. and finish at noon. Participants in this entry-level class will learn the basics of fly-fishing: terminology, knots, casting skills and presentation. Equipment will be available at the class. Registration will start Monday June 11 at 8:00 a.m. Space is limited.

For more information, or to register for either class, contact Ivy Santee at (702) 486-5127 ext. 3503.

BE CAREFUL

Boating responsibly starts with education

Most parents wouldn't think twice about telling their kids they're too young to drive, but all too often they will allow them to get behind the wheel of a boat or personal water craft. Nevada law requires that you be at least 14 years old to operate a PWC and that everyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1983, must show proof they successfully completed a Coast Guard-approved boating safety course in order to operate a boat or PWC.

It's an easy trap parents fall into, it starts off innocently enough with asking to go out alone. How you answer those pleas could cost you financially, require you to appear in juvenile court with your child, or worse. But, the headache and other troubles can be avoided with a little education.

"Our main objective is to make Nevada's waters safer for everyone, and I feel we can accomplish that through education," said Officer Karen Welden a Nevada Department of Wildlife game warden.

Completing a boating safety course can educate yourself and your family before getting on the water. A typical course covers topics that include general information concerning vessels and their maintenance, information to make your boating experience safer and more comfortable, tips on how to be a more courteous vessel operator and most importantly the laws and regulations.

There are a several options that make it easy to get this helpful education, you can pick up a copy of "Boat Nevada," a home study course, and take the test in the back of the book.

"Boat Nevada" books can be found at both the Las Vegas and the Henderson Department of Wildlife offices. If you feel more comfortable in a classroom setting, the Coast Guard Auxiliary or the Las Vegas Sail and Power Squadron both offer courses throughout the year. You can take a boating safety course online at www.boatnevada.org.