New Class: Spanish Language for the Traveling Angler
Posted by Logan Griffith on Jan 17th 2026
Anyone who’s spent time traveling internationally with a fly rod in hand knows that on any adventure there are endless variables that can impact our ability to catch fish. Whether it’s a tropical storm, low visibility, high winds, lost baggage, intense guides, or one of a hundred other things. One of the largest hurdles in being able to get the most out of a fly-fishing trip abroad is the communication barrier. Consequently; building a rapport with your guide and/or lodge staff is one of the best and most rewarding ways of improving a trip.
Almost every trip that we get a report on (or give a report on) is going to reference this dynamic; newbies and veterans alike. Much like practicing your cast, the universal experience is that those who put effort in to communicating in the native language get more out of their trip
Clearly communicating your desires for your day on the water ("Más palometa hoy, por favor!"), translating simple instructions ("More left!" "Right!" "Again!"), cracking jokes and learning about your guide’s life are indispensable and endlessly fun ways to enhance your trip! Not to mention, making friends and returning to fish with them again. In the shop, you'll often hear us remark that it's the fishing that takes us there and the people that keep us coming back.
We’re happy to introduce the newest offering in our line of classes:
Beginning in February, Western Rivers will be offering Spanish language courses designed to be a pre-trip crash course in conversational Spanish for those headed to or interested in Spanish speaking destinations such as Mexico, Belize, Cuba, Argentina or beyond. No prior experience is required and anglers of all skill levels are encouraged to join! Come prepared with questions or specific interests, or simply show up as you are. We’ll meet you at your current level and offer clear guidance to help you get the most out of your time. Practice options will vary and may include one-on-one conversation, pronunciation drills, grammar support, and task-based activities in the target language. Have an idea you’d like to explore? We welcome your input.
Your instructor, Bill Shann, is a career Spanish teacher who has been teaching the Spanish language professionally for over 35 years. Bill is also a long time Western Rivers alumni; working in the shop and guiding on the Green Rivers periodically since he first moved to Utah in 1997.
Our first class is available to BOOK NOW and will be a 3-session crash course; once a week on February 10th, 17th & 24th. Each class will be classroom style, here at Western Rivers for 1.5 hours in the evening. Students are encouraged to bring snacks, beverages, questions and the desire to have fun while learning. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you're also interested in weekly courses, private lessons or continuing your education after the sessions!
Nick Teynor caught in a moment of liguistic vulnerability while yet another Permit swims out of casting range. Ph. Logan Griffith
