The N.C. Fly Fishing Team, who count the region’s best fishermen among their ranks, has now hooked one of the best in the nation as their instructor.

George Daniel, formerly coach of the national USA Fly Fishing Team, has agreed to coach the members of Team NC.

Last fall, Daniel came to Western North Carolina to coach the team as a guest instructor, leading to what’s being touted as the first of its kind coaching program in competitive fly fishing. It will feature of cadre of international and domestic instructors, an initiative that team member Paul Bourcq described as the largest, most technique-driven coaching program in recent history.

“I can speak for all team members in saying that we are floored with the realization that an angler like George will be leading coaching for our team, as well as arranging for the other instructors from around the world,” said Bourq, a Franklin resident.

Daniel has been seen on ESPN and OLN while competing in the Great Outdoor Games and the Fly Fishing Masters. He is a certified FFF Fly Casting Instructor. He has won numerous awards and accolades.

Funding from an anonymous investor is helping the North Carolina Team with the coaching efforts.