The Early Show!

The Early Show – Sunday 11/2/25 10am – 5pm

Presented by the Illinois Smallmouth Alliance & Dupage Rivers Fly Tyers

Come to the 11th Early Show, Chicago’s only all fly fishing & tying show!

Sit with the area’s best fly tyers as they demonstrate a wide variety of fly patterns.

Kids will enjoy free fly tying & entomology programs.

Show Features:

• 25+ Regional fly tyers – sit and watch them create a fly for the waters they fish.
• Federation of FFI Certified Casting Instructors provide free casting lessons.
• Spey casting demonstrations & help matching the line to rod
• Regional fishing guides on hand to share tips & book trips.
• Guest speakers Bill Sherer, P. J. Smith & Mike Allen. Presentations all day long. Dennis Potter Vise Logic Tying Theater Instruction techniques
• Vendors include area shops, reps, pro tyers & guides all with great deals.
• Club booths ready to answer questions about their activities.
• DuPage Forest Preserve District booth to promote outdoor programs.
   

Bamboo rod building demo by Illinois Bamboo rod builders

At the DuPage F.P. Mayslake Peabody Estate, constructed by Francis Stuyvesant Peabody during the American Gilded Age. Experience the splendor of its grounds and learn about fly fishing & tying inside the mansion at the Early Show.

Spey casting lessons by Doug Taylor, Sage Elite pro staff sign in for a free 20 minute session.

Drift FFI certified casting instruction 10:30 to 12:30, 1:30 to 3:30pm

Mark Your Calendar Now for the First Fly Show of the Season!

Show Location:  Mayslake Peabody Estate

1717 West 31st Street

Oak Brook, IL 60523

Show Date:  Sunday November 2, 2025

Show Time:  10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Admission is $10.00 for adults - kids 12 and under are FREE.