LEW BEACH – The Wulff School of Fly Fishing, founded in 1979 by Joan and Lee Wulff, has been acquired by Charlie VanDercook and Paul Barnett, two local entrepreneurs dedicated to preserving and expanding the school’s legacy.

Widely regarded as a premier institution, the school has trained thousands of anglers in Joan Wulff’s renowned casting techniques. Joan, known as the “First Lady of Fly Fishing,” expressed confidence in the transition, stating, “Charlie and Paul deeply respect the art and tradition of fly fishing, and I know they will uphold the principles Lee and I established.”

VanDercook and Barnett are committed to maintaining the school’s traditions while introducing new audiences to the sport. They will work alongside the school’s four long-time, esteemed master instructors—Director Sheila Hassan, Mark Wilde, Craig Buckbee, and Dusty Wissmath—to ensure world-class instruction.

With six school sessions scheduled for 2025 at the historic Wulff property, students will continue to experience immersive, hands-on learning. The new owners have also partnered with the Beaverkill Valley Inn, to provide world class hospitality and access to the famed Beaverkill to enhance their fly fishing experience.

For more information on upcoming school sessions schedules and enrollment, please visit https://wulffschool.com/school.php or call Mark Wilde at 802- 528-8546.