There isn't a better feeling for some than standing in a river up to the waist while casting a line back and forth across the water.

Such is the life of a fly fisherman.

For fly fishermen who recently moved to the area, or those looking to get into the sport, the South Sound Fly Fishers group is a great place to meet other fishermen, find the best locations to nab a big fish or learn a little bit more about the world of fly fishing. 

South Sound Fly Fishers is the Olympia affiliate of the Federation of Fly Fishers. SSFF has been dedicated to the conservation of resources and education in the art, science and sport of fly fishing for more than 30 years.

SSFF is a family-oriented club that hosts monthly meetings, regular fishing outings, educational seminars and conservation and community outreach.

Every year the Northwest Youth Conservation and Fly Fishing Academy hosts an event that provides seven days of education and fishing to youth from ages 12 to 16.

Kids learn the importance of natural resources and how efforts in conservation can help sustain and grow our aquatic resources. Members of SSFF and many others donate their time and energy to make sure the kids have an experience they will remember for the rest of their lives.

Club members are devoted to the conservation and enrichment of the sport they love. SSFF is involved in many conservation efforts locally, statewide and nationally. Along with providing financial support to various restoration and conservation activities, members also serve on local, state and regional boards that have an effect on the health of our fisheries. The club also provides input to regional laws and regulation for fishing and habitat.

Monthly club meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month (except December) at the North Olympia Fire Station, located at 5946 Boston Harbor Road NE, Olympia. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Casting demonstrations are at 6:30 p.m., and the meeting and program starts at 7 p.m.

Monthly club meetings feature topics such as specific fishing locations, techniques, flies, fly tying and entomology.

The club also hosts fishing outings throughout the year  - available to both members and guests. The events provide great opportunities for exploring waters to fish and learning new techniques. People don't need to be members to participate in the outings.

At various times throughout the year SSFF also offers classes in beginning and intermediate fly tying, fly casting and other educational opportunities.

Last year, the club hosted four fly-tying classes (two beginner and two intermediate), a spey casting seminar and an all-day trout and steelhead clinic in Forks, Wash.

According to the club's website, members want to provide more of the same opportunities in 2012, including more fly tying (perhaps shorter sessions focusing on one or more of our traditional outings) and a casting clinic, as well as another on-the-water clinic.

For more information on the club or to attend an event, visit http://southsoundflyfishers.org.