Winter is a time for many sports and hobbies, not least fly tying. Classes are available at various places around the metro, including Bob Mitchell's Fly Shop in Lake Elmo.

Owner Mike Alwin has revamped his tying classes this winter, hoping to make it more convenient for people new to the craft to schedule times to be in his shop.

Each class is now only three weeks long and each concentrates on only one type of fly: streamers, nymphs or dry flies. Each covers all basic techniques and can be taken in any order.

Here's the schedule:

Starting Tuesday, Oct. 18:

Beginning Fly Tying: Nymphs. This three week, six hour course will teach anglers the techniques needed to tie nymphs to catch trout. Alwin says students will leave with an arsenal of fish-worthy flies. Cost: $35. Time: 7-9 pm. Call to register.

Beginning Tuesday, Nov. 8:.

Beginning Fly Tying: Streamers. Whether an angler's specialty is trout, bass, steelhead or pike, this three week, six hour course will teach techniques and patterns necessary to pursue a chosen quarry. $35. 7-9 pm. Call to register.

Tuesday, Nov. 29:

Beginning Fly Tying: Dry Flies. Learn to tie hair wings, no-hackles and classic dries.. $35. 7-9 pm. Call to register.

Mitchell's number is 651.770.5854.