Lew Beach, NY – 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, "It brings me great joy to pass the Wulff School of Fly
Fishing into the capable hands of Charlie and Paul, both longtime members of the Beaverkill
community who deeply respect the art and tradition of fly fishing. Having known them for many
years, I have no doubt they will uphold the principles and disciplines that Lee and I established
when we founded the school in 1979. I am also grateful that our exceptional instructors will
continue in their leadership roles, ensuring that the passion, skill, and love for fly fishing we have
fostered will be carried forward for generations to come.”

Founded in 1979 by Joan and Lee Wulff, the school has been a pillar of the fly fishing
community, teaching thousands of anglers the art and technique of Joan Wulff’s pioneering
casting methods. For more than four decades, the Wulff School has introduced beginners to the
sport, refined the skills of experienced anglers, and instilled in its students a deep appreciation
for the waters of the Beaverkill, one of the most storied regions in American fly fishing history
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.