Fly Tying and other Very Ento-resting Programs at Hobbs

In addition to great trails for mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding, Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area in Rogers offers great programs that span a variety of interests. If you like insects or fly fishing, take a look at these two upcoming events:

Very Ento-resting

This family-oriented program focuses on the small, creepy, and risky world of insects. Austin Jones, entomologist and academic coordinator for Upward Bound will present the program at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13 at the park Visitor Center as part of the Friends of Hobbs Speaker Series. He will speak of the facts, myths, and legends of local “creepy crawlers” and will bring some of them for show and tell. The program is free.

Ever since he was three years old, Jones has been turning over rocks, looking under leaves, and peering into hollow logs looking for bugs that make Northwest Arkansas their home.  As the years went by, Jones’ interest in those multi-legged critters continued until he gained his Master’s degree in Entomology from the University of Arkansas.  Insects, spiders, mites, and various other arthropods, he loves them all.

Fly Tying Workshop

Nationally known fly fishing expert, Sallyann Brown, will lead a fly tying workshop from noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 14.

This straightforward workshop will teach the basic techniques for tying all types of flies. Subjects covered will include how to tie knots, apply weights and hackle, how to spin deer hair, and how to tie on dubbing, tails, wings, eyes and legs.

Learning appropriate proportions in building your own fly and what to do with all the fingers on your hands are two of the more useful things to be learned in this beginner’s class.  Tie your own fly to take home.  All equipment will be provided.  Minimum age 12 years.  Cost:  $35 + tax per person.  Class limited to 15.  Call for reservations:  479-789-5000

Getting There

Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area Visitor Center is located on Ark. 12 just east of the Ark. 12/War Eagle Road intersection. For more information, call the park office at 479-789-5000.