Head Fly-Fishing Instructor 

and Trip Leader (Part-Time)

Season: Spring 2026 (February 9–May 14, 2026).

About Christ School and the Outdoor Program

Christ School is an all-boys boarding and day school in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Our mission is “To produce outdoorsmen of good character, skilled in their craft, prepared for both leadership in sport and a lifetime of joyful recreation.” The Outdoor Program challenges students to develop resilience, teamwork, and self-confidence in the natural world.

About the Role

The Christ School Outdoor Program seeks a part-time Head of Fly Fishing and Trip Leader for the 2026 spring season. This instructor will lead Christ School’s fly fishing program and will be responsible for designing the progression of skills, planning weekly outings, training student anglers, and managing gear, safety, and logistics. Instruction will take place on Christ School Pond and local rivers and creeks in Western North Carolina, supported by the Outdoor Program Director and assistant staff.

This role is ideal for an experienced fly angler and outdoor educator seeking meaningful leadership experience in program design, coaching young men, and managing off-campus field experiences.

Schedule

  • Monday–Friday, 3:30–5:30 p.m.
  • One extended session per week, 3:30–8:00 p.m. to allow for river trips (varies with weather and school events).
  • One weekend overnight trip at the end of the season (Friday–Saturday). 

Responsibilities

  • Design and implement a seasonal skills progression for the fly-fishing program.
  • Lead instruction in casting, knot tying, fly selection, reading water, fish handling, and conservation practices.
  • Plan weekly outings and manage logistics such as water selection, transportation, and safety plans.
  • Teach Leave No Trace principles, ethical angling, and species-specific considerations.
  • Oversee rod, reel, wader, and fly inventory, including care and repairs as needed.
  • Model excellent risk management, including weather, water levels, and group oversight.
  • Mentor assistant coaches and student leaders on instructional strategies and safety expectations. 
    Build positive rapport and trust with young men in an all-boys environment. 

Qualifications

Required 

  • Extensive fly-fishing experience in moving-water environments.
  • Knowledge of Western North Carolina watersheds and fish species, or willingness to learn.
  • Experience teaching or leading groups in outdoor settings.
  • Strong judgment and calm, effective response in dynamic environments.
  • Clear communication and ability to teach foundational and intermediate skills to teenagers.
  • Valid U.S. driver’s license. 

Preferred 

  • Prior experience leading a youth fishing program or guiding clients.
  • Comfortable driving a short bus.
  • Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR).
  • Experience managing equipment inventories.
  • Familiarity with TU, Project Healing Waters, or similar conservation programs. 

Compensation and Benefits

  • Salary: $2,500–$3,000 for the season (based on position and experience).
  • Meals provided after practice (5:30–7:30 p.m.); all meals on team trips covered by the school.
  • Paid professional development: WFA.
  • Advancement opportunities within Christ School (faculty or staff roles).
  • Two weeks leave for Spring Break.

How to Apply

Email Outdoor Program Director Wesley Shelmire at wshelmire@christschool.org with a brief note of interest, résumé, and list of current certifications.

More About Christ School:  

Christ School was founded in 1900 and is affiliated with the Episcopal Church.  Located nine miles south of Asheville, North Carolina, Christ School is an all-boys boarding and day school for grades 8-12.  Students come from 16 states and eight foreign countries.  All world faiths are represented and welcomed at Christ School. www.christschool.org. 

Christ School is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military status, or any other legally protected status.