Looking to become a Fly Fishers International (FFI) Certified Master Casting Instructor (MCI)? You are in the right place! On this page you will find the requirements, recommendations, resources for MCI certification, information on preparation, finding a mentor, and registering for a MCI exam. To begin your exam preparation, register for the FFI Casting Instructor Certification Program (CICP) email list to receive important communications regarding updates, exam prep and other CICP information. Click here to register. We especially recommend reviewing the MCI Candidate Roadmap. This guides you through the entire process and provides links to valuable resources, finding a mentor, and arranging a practice test to see if you are ready for your exam.
Requirements for MCI Certification
- You must be a member of FFI, Click here to join or renew.
- FFI Single Hand CI Certification is required, or individuals with a similar qualification from another organization may use the Master Certification Invitation Program (MCIP).
- Plan ahead and register for an exam when you predict you will be ready or as your mentor advises. There are no refunds of exam fees after ninety days before an exam date. Click here to read the exam fee payment/refund policy.
- Pass the MCI Exam.
Strongly Recommended
- Register as an MCI candidate for our email list to receive communications regarding updates, exam prep and other important CICP information.
- Mentoring - The most important piece of advice for an MCI candidate is to work with a mentor, preferably in person or online when necessary. Mentors assist with preparation, tell their candidates what to expect during a test and when their skills and knowledge are at the correct level for testing. To find a mentor, go to Find an Instructor, Mentor or Examiner or contact casting@flyfishersinternational.org.
- Practice Tests - Starting several months before testing, participate in at least one full practice test, and ideally more. Practice tests provide the opportunity for candidates to get detailed feedback and experience in exam situations. It may be helpful to have the practice test be given by someone other than your main mentor(s) in order to get a broader perspective on your progress.
- Some candidates find it helpful to work with a casting partner or “buddy” who is also preparing for the MCI test, but this should not be viewed as a substitute for proper mentoring.
- Use of video recording of your casting along with a motion analysis application, such as OnForm can be an invaluable help.
Resources for MCI Certification
Additional exam opportunities may be arranged by emailing the FFI Casting Coordinator at casting@flyfishersinternational.org.
Expectations of a Master Level Instructor
Besides teaching and maintaining fly casting at a high level of proficiency and knowledge, all Master level instructors are expected to lead the organization through mentoring candidates, participating in continuing education offerings, and participating in FCEP administrative duties, including becoming an examiner, when desired or asked. All new and existing certified Casting Instructors should adhere to our Professional Expectations and Code of Conduct.
Interested In A Different Certification?
For information on the available resources to become a CI, THCI, or THMCI choose one of the following.