FFF Casting Instructors Certification
The Federation of Fly Fishers Casting Instructors Certification program was started in 1992 in order to improve the level of fly casting instruction available to the public. Though the early days of the program were a bit rocky, the program has steadily improved through the guidance of the Casting Board of Directors to become the most respected fly casting certification program worldwide.
For single handed casting, the FFF's Certification program offers 2 levels: Certified Casting Instructor (CCI) and Master Certified Casting Instructor (MCCI). Over the years the requirements and testing has become more rigorous for each program in order to stress teaching as the most important part of the certification. Both CI and MCI candidates are expected to have high levels of casting and diagnostics skills but most importantly excellent teaching and communication skills.
For double handed casting, the program offers the Two Handed Casting Instructors Certification (THCI). This is the newest certification is aimed specifically at what is commonly called "Spey" casting here in the U.S and "double handed casting" elsewhere. This rigorous test is as difficult to pass as the MCI test due to the level of casting, diagnostics and communication skills required.
Some people see the certification as a casting "merit badge" which it is not. It is a teaching certification focusing on instructional technique and theoretical understanding. Though you may be a great caster, if you don't understand casting you will not do well or if you cannot teach effectively you will not do well. Much of what is asked for during the test are concise and accurate answers that should be at the tip of the tongue. If the answer has to be drawn out of you then you are not familiar enough with the topics to pass. No one is "entitled" to a certification, the prospective instructor must come to the table with knowledge of casting theory, the ability to teach effectively, and the desire to instruct.
All certified instructors are required to continue learning about casting through exposure to various sources, and are expected to continue seeking ways to become more effective teachers. Nearly every Master Certified Casting Instructor I know has mentioned that they have learned more after they attained their certification then they ever did prior to the test. So the attaining of these certifcations is really the first step in a life long journey of self-education. As a Certified Instructor you are expected to teach and attend some form of occasional casting continuing education. As a Master Cerified Casting Instructor you are expected to, not only teach and continue learning, but to educate other instuctors and participate in administering certification tests.