Fishing fanatics and novices alike can perfect their skills at a series of free fly-fishing roadshows taking place in Dorset.

Outdoor clothing expert Orvis is hosting a number of events at its Sherborne store throughout July and August, and is urging people to sign up to its Learn about Fly Fishing sessions – also known as FF101s.

Over the past three years, Orvis UK has introduced more than 2,500 people to the sport, many of whom are new anglers and families learning the sport together.

The free two-hour sessions are run by renowned fishing specialists and teach basic knots, rigging up a rod and focus strongly on learning to cast in an intuitive, fun way.

You can also find out more about the fishing opportunities in the area and where to book a day’s fishing, or how to join a local club.

The store is also running several Learn to Fly Fish on the Water, one-day courses, which will cover more advance aspects of fly fishing and fly casting while on the water, and will provide participants with the fundamentals necessary to catch your first fish on the fly.

“After a long, crazy day at the office, grabbing even one hour on a stream can recalibrate your entire day,” said Laurie Kunz, Orvis director of UK Merchandising on why she loves fly-fishing.

Jackie Jordan, Orvis associate art director, women’s, added: “The form of the cast is what really made me fall in love with fly fishing. You’re always moving. You always keep improving and learning new things about the sport.

“When I go out and fish, it truly reconnects me with nature and it forces me to take a step back, slow down, and appreciate the world around me.”

She added: “I think people can start fly fishing at any age. I try to encourage families to start fly fishing together. Even if you have a child that’s too young to cast a fly rod, they would learn by being with you and watching, touching the fish, seeing you cast and the gear that you use, and so on.

“Orvis Retail Stores host free FF101s that go over casting basics as well as knot tying and an overview on flies to use.

“There are also many other groups out there they can offer the same thing in your area, you just need to find them.”

Courses run from now until October 2014. Spaces are reserved on a first come, first served basis.

To find out more about how Orvis can help you learn to Fly fish go to orvis.co.uk/learntoflyfish