Welcome to the FFI Casting Instructor Certification Program
Congratulations for taking the first step on your journey to become a Fly Fishers International Certified Single Hand or Two Hand Instructor or to achieve a master level qualification! We are glad you are here exploring certification. We look forward to helping you reach your goal, but if you’re not ready for the next steps, we are here for you when you are ready. Please read this entire opening page because it contains important information about all four exams.
There are two levels of the Casting Instructor Certification Program: Casting Instructor and Master Casting Instructor. Both levels are available in Single and Two Hand Casting disciplines.
You may start with either a Single or Two Hand qualification and proceed to others as you wish. Once certified in either single or two hand casting instruction, many pursue Master level in the same discipline, or may decide to become a certified instructor in the other discipline. The choice is yours. Most casting instructors teach a few years before pursuing a Master level. Casting Instructors holding certifications from non-North American organizations may be eligible for Master level examination through the Master Certification Invitation Program. Wherever your learning takes you, we are happy to have you become part of the FFI community. Here are some frequently used FFI abbreviations:
- CI - Single Hand Casting Instructor
- THCI - Two Hand Casting Instructor
- MCI - Single Hand Master Casting Instructor
- THMCI - Two Hand Master Casting Instructor
Why Become A Certified Casting Instructor?
- FFI provides the most internationally recognized professional casting instructor certification.
- You will be a more effective and well-rounded casting instructor by learning and teaching fly casting using teaching techniques and curriculum developed by FFI.
- You will become a better fly caster, able to demonstrate and instruct techniques appropriate for different fishing situations.
- You will have the opportunity to meet and learn from experienced colleagues around the world representing a great source of knowledge, including our professional journal "The Loop."
- Your name will be added to the growing roster of certified instructors on the FFI website under Find an Instructor, Mentor, or Examiner which helps students and organizations find you.
- There are pro-deals and discounts available to certified instructors.
How Much Time Will This Take?
Your journey could take six months to a few years depending on the qualification you are seeking and your baseline teaching and casting skills. Your progress will reflect the time and effort you dedicate.
A Mentor is Strongly Recommended
It is best to have a mentor to support your efforts. A mentor is a CI, THCI, MCI, or THMCI familiar with the present exam and its expectations who is willing to work with you in person and/or virtually. Your mentor can advise you on a custom course of study for your exam preparation which will accelerate your teaching skill development. Go here to get help with finding an instructor who can mentor you: Find an Instructor, Mentor or Examiner.
FFI’s Casting Instructor Certification Program has a financial commitment which includes: FFI membership, exam fee, pass fee, and an annual CICP membership fee. Additionally, there may be expenses for travel, mentoring (some mentors charge), and items you may purchase for your certified Casting Instructor teaching/practice kit (such as measuring tape, cones, etc.)
Certification Exam Fees
- Casting Instructor - $350
- Two-Hand Casting Instructor - $450
- Master Casting Instructor - $450
- Two-Hand Master Casting Instructor - $450
Additional Fees
- Pass Fee - typically about $50, prorated to match your CICP annual membership expiration, which covers up to 1 year of your membership dues.
- Annual CICP membership fee - $45 (due yearly once you become a Certified Casting Instructor)
- You must be a current FFI member to maintain certification status.
Overview of the Casting Instructor Certification Program (CICP)
In 1992, the CICP was formed by leading casting instructors in the Federation of Fly Fishers, now known as Fly Fishers International. The purpose was to enhance the level of casting instruction. The goal of the CICP is to educate and train professional fly casting instructors worldwide and maintain up to date information and knowledge of fly casting skills and instruction for "All Fish In All Waters®." The FFI Fly Casting Education Program Leadership Team manages the CICP which is responsible for helping to prepare and certify instructors, offering continuing education, and developing qualified examiners. Please click here (opens a new window) to watch a brief YouTube video about the history of the Casting Instructor Certification Program.
Have Questions?
If you have questions or need assistance, please email the FFI Casting Coordinator at casting@flyfishersinternational.org.
The Next Step
For more information on the available resources to become a CI, THCI, MCI, or THMCI click one of the following.