Master Spey Casting with Legendary Instructor Dec Hogan

Learn from the best. Join world-renowned spey casting instructor, author, and steelhead expert Dec Hogan for an intensive two-day clinic in Portland, Oregon. Whether you're picking up a two-handed rod for the first time or refining advanced techniques, Dec's personalized instruction will transform your spey casting.

About Dec Hogan

Dec Hogan is a true legend in the steelhead and spey casting world. As a professional guide, master fly-tier, and celebrated author of A Passion for Steelhead, Dec brings decades of hands-on experience to his teaching. His approachable style and deep knowledge make complex techniques accessible to anglers at every level.

Two-Day Clinic Format

This clinic offers separate classes for different skill levels, ensuring you get instruction tailored to your experience:

Friday, April 10th & Saturday April 11th - Beginner Spey Casting

Perfect for anglers new to two-handed rods or those wanting to build a solid foundation.

What You'll Learn:

• Spey Fundamentals: Build familiarity and comfort with your spey rod
• Essential Drills: Develop accuracy, distance, and line control
• Water Reading: Apply casts effectively in real fishing scenarios
• Line Management: Master floating and sinking line techniques for steelhead

Sunday, April 12th - Advanced Spey Casting

For casters with a solid foundation looking to master complex techniques and challenging situations.

What You'll Learn:

• Advanced Casts: Single Spey, Snake Roll, and combining casting styles
• Complex Situations: Conquer tricky water and tight quarters
• Distance Casting: Add power and reach when conditions demand it
• Line Management Mastery: Refine your technique for maximum effectiveness

Note: You don't need to be an expert for the advanced class, but a comfortable working knowledge of two-handed casting is recommended.

What to Bring

• Waders & Boots: Required for in-water casting (rentals available from NWFFO)
• Spey Rod Setup: If you have one, bring it with a Scandi head and leader, or Skagit with a floating skagit tip and leader.
• Camp Chair: For breaks and instruction
• Sunglasses: Essential for casting safety
• Your Copy of "A Passion for Steelhead": Dec will sign it!

Clinic Details

Location: Sandy River or Clackamas River, Portland, Oregon (exact location shared as the date approaches)

Includes:

• Casting equipment if needed
• Lunch and beverages
• Hands-on instruction from Dec Hogan
• Small group sizes for personalized attention

Important: This class requires standing in the water to cast. Bring your own waders and boots or rent them from NWFFO.

Why This Clinic?

Learning from Dec Hogan is a rare opportunity to train with one of the sport's most respected instructors. His decades of guiding on Pacific Northwest rivers give him unmatched insight into what works in real fishing conditions. You'll leave with skills that translate directly to success on the water.

Perfect for: Anglers serious about improving their spey casting, steelhead enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to learn from a true master of the craft.