Leader in Training

Begin the transition from angler to guide

Lillard Fly Fishing Expeditions ran our first fly fishing trips for teens in 2010. LFFE already had over ten years of guiding/trip-leading experience between head guides Will and Charlie. Since then, we have been unable to plan enough trips to keep up with the increasing demand. The greatest obstacle to running more trips has always been finding more trip directors equipped with the diverse skill sets that have set our programs apart since 2010. Our Leader In Training (LIT) program is the first step for LFFE alums to fine-tune their fly fishing/camping knowledge and, just as importantly, their leadership skills.

Availability

One LIT per adventure/expedition

Open To

LFFE Expedition Alumni who are entering their senior year in high school are eligible to be an LIT on an Adventure or Expedition. Alumni who are entering their junior year are eligible to be a LIT on Adventure trips.   

Cost

10% off trip tuition

Highlights

The LIT position is a chance for LFFE alum to transition from participant to trip leader. LITs will have all the same opportunities to fish as they did as a participant, with the added responsibility of being a LIT. Instead of learning things like how to catch more fish, or how to cook a meal, LITs will focus more on how to help others catch more fish, or how to plan meals for a group. They should be prepared to take on greater responsibilities and an enhanced leadership role.

  • Take on a greater leadership role
  • Practice skills you will need to become a trip leader
  • Develop your own leadership style
  • Constant feedback from your trip director
  • End of trip evaluation with trip director and co-leaders. 

No. LFFE co-leaders and trip directors have to meet a list of requirements, possess a wide array of skills, and be a confident leader. If you would like to be a LFFE co-leader in the future the LIT program will help you become more prepared but does not guarantee you a position.

No. We hire trip leaders based on their ability, character, and leadership skills. The majority of our assistant trip leaders have intimate knowledge of our programs as an alumni, LIT or both, but it is not required.

If you are an LFFE alum who will be entering 11th or 12th grades and are interested in becoming a LIT, please give us a call or send an email to i[email protected].

Ready to Enroll?

Click "Enroll Now" or give us a call to get started. You can also send us an email at [email protected].

If you have any questions you can Request Information and we will contact you soon with answers.

Lillard Fly Fishing Expeditions was started in 2010 as a graduate thesis for my Master's Degree in Environmental Conservation Education at NYU. The operating premise was simple - by coupling amazing wilderness fly fishing camps for teens with environmental education and service learning we can help inspire future generations of fly fishing conservationists. We have been growing our unique list of trips and experiences ever since.

When it comes to choosing a summer program for your teen the options are endless. For the teen who loves to fish, be outside, and has a strong sense of adventure we have made the choice easy. We are the leader in teen fly fishing adventures and are dedicated to providing the best backcountry fly fishing experience with opportunities for teens to engage in leadership training, community service, and backcountry camping.

Sincerely,

Will Lillard signature

Will Lillard, Founder/Director/Guide

Contact Us

[email protected]

Lillard Fly Fishing Expeditions
2540 King Road
Pisgah Forest, NC 28768

(828) 577-8204