The Venturing Angler: Recent Episodes
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Jim Klug of Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures is one of the most well-traveled anglers ever. As an angler and photographer, it’s hard to think of a destination he has not visited. His ventures are now documented in a new book.
From Yellow Dog Flyfishing:
“From the pristine flats of the Indian Ocean to the jungles of South America, to wilderness rivers in Alaska and Kamchatka, angler and photographer Jim Klug has created a visually rich collection of some of the most stunning destinations and memorable images from a lifetime of global fishing and travel.
Anglers appreciate time spent on the water – be it a trip to the saltwater flats, a float down a freestone river, or a quick session on a hometown pond. Of course, catching fish is always a rewarding bonus. Yet the truly meaningful moments and biggest take-aways revolve around the places that fly fishing takes us. The people, landscapes, exposure to new cultures, and the journey itself collectively deliver the excitement and motivation that is the true ethos of adventure travel. Waypoints: Flyfishing the World is a project that focuses on those places, with a stunning collection of images shot over three decades of exploring and fishing spectacular destinations. Anglers and travelers alike will relate to the images, the destinations, and the emotions captured in this new book. For those who have yet to begin their explorations, these photos will light a fire and motivate you to explore an exciting and exotic world connected by fishing, incredible waters, and profiles of adventure.”
To learn more, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
Washington, DC. – Following yesterday evening’s announcement by president-elect Trump that North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum will serve as Secretary of the Department of the Interior (DOI), BHA President and CEO Patrick Berry offered this response:
“President-elect Trump’s return to office, including nominations such as this, offer his administration a renewed opportunity to support America’s sportsmen and women. Governor Burgum has now been tasked with the tremendous responsibility of overseeing our nation’s vast natural resources, notably the irreplaceable assets owned by all Americans and managed by the Interior Department: our public lands and waters. As governor of an energy-producing state with very limited public lands, Governor Burgum will need to transition to the broader view of natural resource stewardship in which management reflects a balance of appropriate activities and includes conservation values, fish and wildlife habitat, and access and opportunity for generations of sportsmen and women. BHA is committed to engaging with Governor Burgum to help advance policies that reflect the value of outdoor recreation, the importance of public lands for hunters and anglers, and maintain the legacy of ensuring that public lands stay in public hands.”
DOI is responsible for managing more than 400 million acres of public lands and 700 million acres of subsurface minerals. This includes the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the National Park Service. These public lands encompass a wealth of hunting and fishing opportunities, support robust wildlife populations, and sustain coldwater fisheries.
As the leading advocate for our wild public lands, waters, and wildlife, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the access and opportunities provided by our shared natural resources—regardless of who holds office in the administration or Congress. Through education and tireless work, BHA seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in natural settings endures for generations to come. To learn more about the issues important to BHA’s membership, visit www.backcountryhunters.org/our_issues. To ensure your voice as a Public Land Owner is heard, consider joining BHA today.
https://www.backcountryhunters.org
MONTROSE, Colo. (Nov. 15, 2024) — The Scott Fly Rod Company is pleased to announce the introduction of their new 50th Anniversary Edition fly rods.
This year, the Scott Fly Rod Company proudly celebrates their 50th anniversary. “It’s been a journey filled with fun, firsts, camaraderie, and a half-century of handcrafting high-performance fly rods,” states Scott president, Jim Bartschi. “In contemplating the most fitting tribute to the anglers who fish Scott rods, the rodsmiths who craft them, and the rod designs of Harry Wilson, Larry Kenney, and myself, we picked one rod from each decade that exemplifies Scott innovation and, in some way, changed the way we fish.”
The 50th Anniversary Edition fly rods were chosen from an award-winning series of Scott rods that are even more celebrated by the anglers who fish them. For those anglers, these are never-part-with rods. Rather than simply replicating the originals, Scott has built the rod blanks to spec with a resto-mod approach to finishing them. Though instantly recognizable to Scott history buffs, these anniversary rods are finished with today’s best-in-class components and construction techniques. In celebration, the Scott Fly Rod Company offers these tribute fly rods with a heartfelt thank you to the whole Scott family.
F 703/4
When Harry Wilson founded the Scott Fly Rod Company in 1974, he built a name for himself and the brand by making some of the most coveted light-line multipiece fiberglass fly rods. At a time when the typical fly rod was a heavy, clunky 8-foot 6-weight two-piece rod, Scott’s light-line multipiece rods opened up new opportunities for anglers fishing cold, clear streams with dry flies by providing light, responsive, and smooth rods for the task. Advanced tapers and the Scott hollow internal ferrule were central to accomplishing this feat. No model exemplifies this better than the F 703/4: $995.
G 904/4
When graphite arrived on the scene in the mid-1970s, Wilson envisioned a long, light-line rod using the new material. When he told friends in the fly-fishing community about his idea, they said it couldn’t be done. After many attempts and challenges, Scott finally released the first 9-foot 4-weight line graphite rod. It changed fly fishing. Anglers had a new tool to fish long leaders and small flies on technical rivers like Henry’s Fork, Hat Creek, and the Paradise Valley spring creeks. With the graphite rod, anglers could control drag, fish light tippets, and engage large trout like never before. To this day, the G 904/4 is named among the finest light-line fly rods ever built: $1,095.
ARC 1287/3
The ARC series of salmon and steelhead rods were the first to deploy ultra-lightweight, unidirectional graphite laid up off the zero-degree axis. Now found in many premium fly rods, it was a major innovation when introduced. The material and construction breakthrough allowed Scott to make some of the lightest and smoothest double handers of their time. Gone were the days of lumbering two handers that tired anglers out after a half-day of fishing. The ARC 1287/3 is still one of Scott’s most-searched-for salmon and steelhead rods: $1,395.
STS 909/3
The STS series put Scott on the saltwater map. Widely adopted by Florida Keys captains and saltwater anglers around the globe, they were introduced at a time when saltwater fly fishing and travel to new destinations in the tropics were taking off. STS built on the success of ARC by using multidirectional layups and took materials alchemy a step further, utilizing the first multi-modulus blank designs. Anglers who have followed Scott’s history fondly remember the company’s “Jet Ski era”—images of casting from the wing of a submerged aircraft and lifting cinder blocks with the rod from the top of a poling platform. By a wide margin, the STS 909/3 is considered the crown jewel in this transformative series: $1,195.
R 905/4
Like the G 904 40 years earlier, Radian rods fundamentally changed the angling experience. Through material and design innovations, Radian rods solved the dilemma of bringing together fast action with feel. They also showcased a new approach to components that set new standards and made them even more endeared to anglers. When considering which rod from Scott’s recent past to offer as an anniversary edition, the choice was clear. Sworn by many to be the finest fast rod of all time, the R 905/4 is the most coveted historical Scott rod model: $1,095.
All rods come with a special 50th anniversary inscription, custom engraved reel seat hardware, and a commemorative rod tube.
50th Anniversary Edition fly rod photos can be viewed at scottflyrod.com/scott-fly-rod-images.
To learn more, visit your nearest authorized Scott dealer or visit scottflyrod.com
About the Scott Fly Rod Company:
Since its founding in 1974, the Scott Fly Rod Company has been dedicated to handcrafting the ultimate fishing tools from start to finish. Based in Montrose, Colorado, Scott has a history of innovation, dedication to performance, and a commitment to protecting the environment while also supporting local fly shops. For more information about Scott Fly Rods, please visit their website and follow Scott on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
We do things a bit differently in this episode as Justin Miller and Tim Harden sit down for an episode with no agenda and no plan. We go everywhere in this one. Parental advisory: Explicit language.
To check out more from The Fly Shop, please click here.
The Venturing Angler Podcast: Discussing Everything with Justin Miller (Part 1)
In this episode, Brian O’Keefe breaks down fly fishing in Chile and the Eleven experience at Rio Palena Lodge and Martín Pescador Lodge.
To learn more about Eleven Angling, please click here.
And to check out the podcast, please click below or download our podcast on iTunes, Soundcloud, YouTube, or Spotify:
In this episode, Brian O’Keefe breaks down fly fishing in Chile and the Eleven experience at Rio Palena Lodge and Martín Pescador Lodge.
A new issue of Catch Magazine is now live online. Included in a nice mix of destination content, the new issue features a story on steelheading the Dean River, trout in Finland, and redfish in South Carolina, and more. There’s also a new video from Todd Moen featuring New Zealand angling action.
To check out the new issue of Catch Magazine, please click here.
From Keep Fish Wet:
Keep Fish Wet is running a series of raffles and an auction for their 2024 fundraiser. Enter for your chance to win gear and trips both near and far. Both the raffle and auction run until December 3rd, 2024.
Every penny goes to support Keep Fish Wet education and outreach programs to help create better outcomes for each fish that is released. As many of our most iconic fisheries face growing anthropogenic pressures, Keep Fish Wet believes that we have a responsibility to build community around the use of science-based best practices for catch-and-release and angling in the face of climate change. As a nonprofit without membership we rely on your support to make our programs available to all anglers.
Many thanks to the fundraiser sponsors including: Patagonia, Costa, YETI, Farbank, TFO, Cheeky, Turtlebox, Fulling Mill, NRS, Las Pampas Lodge, SET Fly Fishing, Emerald Water Anglers, Kismet Outfitters, Great Lake Flyfishing, Gillies and Fallon Guide Service, Rep Your Water, Rachel Finn.
For more information go to https://go.rallyup.com/kfw2024
About Keep Fish Wet
Keep Fish Wet is a 501c3 nonprofit that promotes the use of science-based best practices to catch, handle, and release fish. Science shows that even small changes in how an angler catches, handles, and releases a fish can have positive outcomes once that fish swims away. Keep Fish Wet aggregates and translates the science on catch-and-release into a usable format, and then acts as a hub to disseminate guidelines to a wide range of stakeholders. Not only does using best practices increase survival rates of fish, but it also helps fish return to their normal behavior as quickly as possible after release. Using best practices for catch-and-release is a quick and effective way to put conservation into practice. For more information, visit www.keepfishwet.org
We do things a bit differently in this episode as Justin Miller and Tim Harden sit down for an episode with no agenda and no plan. We go everywhere in this one. Parental advisory: Explicit language.
To check out more from The Fly Shop, please click here.
And to check out the podcast, please click below or download our podcast on iTunes, Soundcloud, YouTube, Spotify, and more.
We do things a bit differently in this episode as Justin Miller and Tim Harden sit down for an episode with no agenda and no plan. We go everywhere in this one. Parental advisory: Explicit language.
Yellowtail, yellowfish, rainbow trout, and more. The new issue of The Mission is full of great destination content, gear features, profiles, and more. One particular highlight is our buddy Will Phelps’ piece on his bikepacking adventure in Patagonia.
To check out the new issue of The Mission, please click here.
Fly fishing for redfish in Texas is the focus of a great (older but now live online) video from Off the Grid Studios.
From Off the Grid Studios:
“Join us on an exciting fly fishing adventure as we target the sought-after redfish in the bountiful waters of Texas!”
To see more from Off the Grid Studios, please click here.
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Disclosure: Off the Grid Studios is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
Anglers take on bonefish, tarpon, and permit in Mexico in a video from Dorsal Outdoors.
From Dorsal Outdoors:
“It’s no secret that we as a crew love fly fishing the Yucatan. It could be our addiction to great tacos. It could be our infatuation with tarpon. Or it could be the fact that you can do almost anything in fly fishing… right there.
So when we got the call of a lifetime — would we go down and film the opening of a new lodge — Tail Inn… we already were packing our bags.
In Episode 1, we bounce our way down from Alabama to the tranquil shores of ES Bay… and encounter some surprises immediately.”
To check out more from Dorsal Outdoors, please click here.
From Bonefish & Tarpon Trust:
Miami, FL– Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) and several partners are collaborating on new research to address a suspected toxin affecting multiple Florida Keys fish species with abnormal “spinning” behaviors. The inter-institutional study is funded by $1.75 million that was awarded to BTT by the State of Florida through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to research the scale and scope of the ongoing mortality and disease event in Biscayne Bay, Florida Bay, and the Florida Keys. Specifically, the funds will support data collection and analysis, and employ local fishing guides to assist with sampling efforts.
“BTT appreciates the rapid response and robust funding provided by the Florida Legislature to address this unprecedented concern affecting our fisheries,” said Jim McDuffie, BTT President and CEO. “We are also grateful for interim funding provided by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FL DEP), the American Sportfishing Association and private donors as well as the unwavering commitment of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.”
BTT and the Lower Keys Guides Association (LKGA) received the first report of fish in the Florida Keys exhibiting abnormal, spinning behavior in early October 2023. Fish with the “spins” experience loss of equilibrium, causing them to swim upside down in repeated circles, often following a stressful or stimulating event.
In response, an ongoing, inter-institutional research study to identify the cause of these symptoms was launched in January 2024. Partners include BTT, LKGA, Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), University of South Alabama (USA), Florida International University, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute (WHOI), FL DEP, and FWC.
To date, more than 60 species have exhibited these abnormal behaviors, including smalltooth sawfish, silver mullet, tarpon, permit, snook, bonefish, jack crevalle, southern stingray, mutton snapper, mangrove snapper, cubera snapper, redfish, and lemon shark.
“While there has been a decrease in reports of affected fish over the summer, BTT and partners are still seeking the underlying cause of this concerning spinning behavior. State funding will allow research and response teams to stay vigilant as we move into cooler months, while continuing investigations into the causes that resulted in the single biggest smalltooth sawfish mass die-off ever recorded,” said Dr. Ross Boucek, Director of BTT’s Florida Keys Initiative. “As we continue our research, we encourage folks to share any unusual fish behavior to FWC or LKGA.”
BTT continues to work closely with over 180 local professional fishing guides and captains across the Florida Keys to track the spread and intensity of the spinning fish phenomena through a Rapid Response Network launched in April 2024. This has allowed BTT to track the phenomenon throughout the Florida Keys, and target collections of fish and water samples from these expansion fronts prior to it diminishing in the summer. Local fishing guides are supporting BTT in routine research trips to survey conditions in inshore waters and collect needed samples to better understand this event.
For the latest information, visit BTT.org/spinning-fish.
Photos are available upon request.
About Bonefish & Tarpon Trust
Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s mission is to conserve bonefish, tarpon and permit—the species, their habitats and the larger fisheries they comprise. BTT pursues this mission across the southeastern US, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea through science-based conservation, education and advocacy.
From Mayfly Outdoors:
Montrose, CO – October 30, 2024 – Mayfly Outdoors, the award-winning manufacturer of high-performance fly fishing products and parent company of Abel Reels, Ross Reels, and Airflo, is excited to announce that world-renowned fly fisher, guide, author, and conservationist April Vokey has joined the Mayfly family as a brand ambassador.
Known for her work through Anchored Outdoors and years of guiding in some of the world’s most iconic fisheries, Vokey has become a respected authority in fly fishing, conservation, and education. Her ability to connect with anglers of all skill levels, coupled with her dedication to preserving rivers, has solidified her role as a leader in the industry.
“I couldn’t be more excited to join the Mayfly Outdoors family. I’ve respected Ross, Abel, and Airflo for decades, and having the chance to represent them now is both an honor and a full-circle moment,” Vokey shared. “These brands stand for more than just fly fishing—they embody a deep respect for craftsmanship, adventure, and the wild places that inspire us. I’m looking forward to working with the team, sharing new ideas, and continuing the tradition of creating products that truly connect anglers to the heart of the sport. This partnership feels like the perfect fit, and I can’t wait to see where it takes us.”
As an ambassador, Vokey will engage in a range of initiatives, including product testing, collaborating on educational content, and offering valuable insights for product innovation. She will also continue her advocacy for conservation, working alongside Mayfly to support their ongoing commitment to habitat preservation and community-driven stewardship.
“April truly embodies what our brands stand for—performance, craftsmanship, and respect for wild places we love,” said Jeff Wagner, CEO and President of Mayfly. “We’re beyond excited to have someone with her passion, expertise, and authenticity representing Ross, Abel, and Airflo. April’s influence and knowledge will be an incredible asset as we continue to innovate and honor the traditions of fly fishing for future generations.”
This collaboration marks a new chapter for Mayfly Outdoors as the company strengthens its ambassador roster and continues to develop industry-leading fly fishing products.
For more information about Mayfly Outdoors, visit www.mayflyoutdoors.com or follow us on social at @RossReels, @AbelReels, and @AirfloLines.
About Mayfly Outdoors:Mayfly Outdoors is a Colorado-based outdoor products company. Mayfly subsidiaries operate under several brand names, including Abel, Ross Reels, Airflo, Dyna-King, and Renzetti. Combined, these businesses have received more industry “Awards in Excellence” for innovation, dependability, and performance than any other fly fishing tackle manufacturers in the world. Learn more at www.mayflyoutdoors.com.
A new video from Simms takes on fly fishing for steelhead on the Skeena in British Columbia.
From Simms:
“Steelheading on the Skeena is more than fishing — it’s a way of life, a test of patience, and a testament to passion. Destination Skeena takes you into the heart of one of the most iconic, undammed river systems in British Columbia.
This is where the most dedicated and, let’s be honest, most troubled anglers —steelheaders — spend days, weeks, even months chasing one of the most unique highs one can experience on the water. For this obsessive breed of anglers, it’s never been solely about the fish. It’s about the thrill of the chase, the serenity of the process, and the belief that on the next cast, everything could change.
In a world where instant gratification is the norm, steelheaders embrace the grind.
Destination Skeena follows a community bound together by more than just fishing—it’s the shared journey, the stories, and the deep connection with one of the world’s most pristine river systems. Every take is different. Every take is special. And for these anglers, every moment on the Skeena is worth the wait.”
To check out more from Simms, please click here.
Aggressive marble trout in Slovenia are the focus of an exciting fly fishing video from Off the Grid Studios.
From Off the Grid Studios:
“Join us as we dive into a captivating behind-the-scenes look at a fishing and filming trip in the breathtaking rivers of northwest Slovenia. We were on a quest to capture the elusive marble trout, but nature had a show of its own in store for us.
As we navigated the stunning river, we witnessed a massive mayfly hatch that transformed the water into a frenzy of activity. Marble trout were rising to snatch mayflies off the surface, but the real magic happened when these trout began leaping out of the water to catch mayflies mid-flight!
Inspired by this extraordinary display, we decided to up the ante by dangling a fly just above the water. And guess what? A marble trout took our fly right out of mid-air! It was an unforgettable moment of pure fishing excitement.
Have you ever seen fish take flies out of mid-air? Share your experiences in the comments below! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more thrilling fishing content. Thanks for watching, and tight lines!”
To see more from Off the Grid Studios, please click here.
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Disclosure: Off the Grid Studios is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
Perhaps best known in travel for their work in international fly fishing, The Fly Shop also offers an impressive portfolio of destinations throughout North America. Their new 2025 North America Travel Magazine just went live, and this magazine breaks down a variety of great fly fishing destinations throughout the continent.
To check out The Fly Shop’s 2025 North America Travel Magazine, please click here.
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Disclosure: The Fly Shop is in a professional relationship with the The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
In a new video from Yellow Dog, anglers head to Belize to take on the northern region of this tropical flats paradise.
From Yellow Dog Flyfishing:
“Yellow Dog Flyfishing began over twenty-five years ago on the flats of Northern Belize, a region seemingly tailor-made for fly fishing. This small Central American country boasts some of the finest saltwater flats in the world, with a diverse range of species and fishing scenarios along its entire coastline. Northern Belize was home to Yellow Dog’s first fishing-focused program, and for over two decades, we’ve dedicated ourselves to crafting the best fly fishing experiences in Belize.
On this journey, Yellow Dog’s Matt Kelsic and Bryan Gregson, along with cinematographer Chris Patterson, visit Belize River Lodge, El Pescador Lodge, and Turneffe Flats Lodge in search of bonefish, permit, and tarpon on the fly. Together, they provide a glimpse into each lodge’s operations and the unique saltwater flats fisheries that surround them.”
To check out more from Yellow Dog Flyfishing, please click here.
After a beautiful Montana wedding, Will Phelps and his new bride take on a DIY fly fishing/honeymoon trip. Do-it-yourself giant trevally?! What a trip.
From Will Phelps:
“This film represents a new era for Phelps on the Fly. With Erika as an official part of the family, we set out to explore the unknown and created our first pay-per-view motion picture for you to enjoy. Every dollar goes a long way toward allowing us to continue producing these films, and your continued support makes it all possible. Thanks for being a part of the Phelps on the Fly Team.
WATCH HERE: willphelpsmedia.com”
To check out more from Will Phelps, please click here.
CBS Sunday Morning gave us all a nice look at the Yellowstone River this morning …
From CBS Sunday Morning:
“We leave you this Sunday morning along the Yellowstone River at Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. Videographer: Mauricio Handler.”
To check out more from CBS Sunday Morning, please click here.
Miami, FL – Fishpond, a leading fly-fishing and outdoor products company headquartered in Denver, CO, has partnered with Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) to create a co-branded line of gear designed for traveling anglers.
A portion of sales will benefit BTT’s project to restore mangroves in areas of Grand Bahama and Abaco severely impacted by Category 5 Hurricane Dorian in 2019. To date, the project has planted more than 75,000 trees with the help of local fishing guides, students, and volunteers. The Fishpond X BTT collection will also support BTT’s mangrove conservation efforts across The Bahamas.
“At Fishpond, we are deeply committed to sustainability and the preservation of our natural ecosystems,” stated Jack Reis, Fishpond Director of Marketing. “Partnering with Bonefish & Tarpon Trust allows us to not only support vital mangrove restoration efforts in The Bahamas but also to give back to the communities that rely on these habitats. This collaboration reflects our ongoing commitment to protecting clean water and healthy environments for the species that inhabit our wild places. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the health of our fisheries and ensure a sustainable future for anglers.”
A family-owned company founded 25 years ago in the Rocky Mountains, Fishpond is dedicated to crafting functional fly fishing and outdoor products while prioritizing the health of ecosystems like those found in The Bahamas. Sustainability drives Fishpond’s innovation and development, fueled by the company’s passion for protecting clean water and healthy habitats that are essential for the health of the species that inhabit wild places. As a certified B Corporation, Fishpond minimizes its environmental impact by rigorously reviewing its supply chain, resource consumption, emissions, and quality standards while maintaining strict sustainability certifications.
As part of its long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability, Fishpond began using recycled nylon fishing nets in its products over a decade ago, aiming to build a healthier future for the planet. Today, nearly 100% of the company’s fabrics are made from recycled materials. In addition to its focus on sustainable production, Fishpond supports environmental initiatives around the globe, furthering its mission to protect vital ecosystems worldwide.
“We greatly appreciate the generous support of Fishpond and its commitment to restoring and conserving mangrove habitats, which are so vital to the health of The Bahamas’ flats fishery and coastal communities,” said BTT President and CEO Jim McDuffie. “This exciting new partnership will support our efforts at scale, including the planting of 1 million mangroves with partners by the end of 2025 and the pursuit of new national policies beneficial to mangrove conservation.”
The co-branded line of products features the Dakota Carry-On Rod & Reel Case, Tacky Pescador Large Fly Box, and Boulder Briefcase.Fishpond will donate $95 from each Dakota sale, $25 from each Large Pescador sale, and $95 from each Boulder briefcase sale to BTT in support of Bahamian mangrove restoration and conservation.
Learn more at: https://fishpondusa.com/collections/btt
Dakota Carry-On Rod & Reel Case – Bonefish & Tarpon Trust Edition
Fishing Trip Rule #742 – Every angler must have four rods on hand, even if they are just headed down the street for carp. Additionally, each rod must be matched with a reel and a spare spool, which must be available at all times. Finally, the angler must have a Philly Cheese Steak sandwich, a bag of chips, and a chocolate chip cookie within close reach, because it’s lunchtime. How many cases do you really want to carry for all that stuff? Let’s make it easy on you…just one, the Dakota Carry-On Rod & Reel [and snack] Case.
Tacky Pescador Large Fly Box – Bonefish & Tarpon Trust Edition
The Pescador Large is truly the quintessential bonefish box. Super durable construction and a waterproof gasket will keep your flies dry and secure over the course of a full day out on the flats. From crabs and shrimp to medium-sized baitfish, you’ll have everything on hand to fool even the most selective fish. Fishing something a little closer to home? Fill it up with larger dries and streamers for the perfect companion box on your local trout water.
Boulder Briefcase – Bonefish & Tarpon Trust Edition
We all know that the most important business is done on the water, but sooner or later, you’re going to get a call to come out of the woods and into the office. For best impressions, make sure you stroll into that “emergency” meeting with your Boulder Briefcase in hand. You’ll appear organized, right up to the point you realize the only thing you packed were fly boxes. If you do happen to remember your laptop, hard drives, notebooks, and pens and pencils, you’ll have plenty of room for those too.
About Bonefish & Tarpon Trust
Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s mission is to conserve bonefish, tarpon and permit—the species, their habitats and the larger fisheries they comprise. BTT pursues this mission across the southeastern US, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea through science-based conservation, education and advocacy. Learn more at www.BTT.org.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – North America’s leading public lands advocacy group, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA), is celebrating the introduction of the Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection (GORP) Act in the U.S. Senate today. The introduction follows the release of a draft bill two years prior and more than a decade of stakeholder engagement by the Gunnison Public Lands Initiative, including members of BHA’s Colorado Chapter.
The GORP Act (S. 5193), led by Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO) and cosponsored by Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-CO), would conserve and enhance more than 700,000 acres of federal public lands in and surrounding Colorado’s Gunnison Basin. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management, these landscapes provide important fish and wildlife habitat and hunting and fishing opportunities in Colorado’s backcountry.
“Hunters and anglers know well the value of intact habitat for big game including elk and mule deer as well as the critical role healthy coldwater streams have for native and wild trout populations,” said Kaden McArthur, government relations manager for BHA. “We applaud the GORP Act, which reinforces the importance of these wild places and the habitat they support, as well as a sustainable approach to managing recreation on our public lands.”
Key Facets of the GORP Act
The legislation includes approximately 120,000 acres of designated wilderness areas, providing the highest level of protection – and maintaining the solitude and primitive nature – of the region’s most wild public lands.
Additional designations within the GORP Act include approximately 220,000 acres of wildlife conservation areas and approximately 220,000 acres of special management areas, both of which include an emphasis on the restoration and conservation of wildlife habitat.
Lastly, the bill prioritizes current uses and values of these public lands. While managing motorized recreation and mountain biking in protected areas, the GORP Act does not close existing legal routes and offers new opportunities for potential routes in appropriate areas.
“We thank Sen. Bennet for his leadership on introducing legislation that was the result of a collaborative process with a variety of user groups who value the resources of the Gunnison Basin,” said Tony Prendergast, Colorado Chapter of BHA. “Passing the GORP Act would mean greater safeguards and management certainty for more than 700,000 acres of public lands in Colorado’s backcountry along with the fish and wildlife we pursue there.”
A Collaborative Process
Throughout the stakeholder engagement process, a commitment to public land conservation has resulted in a balanced, well-crafted proposal that not only safeguards the rich natural resources of the Gunnison Basin but also protects the long-standing traditions of hunting, angling, ranching, and outdoor recreation vital to Colorado’s outdoor heritage. This process and the resulting legislation are supported by the Board of County Commissioners from Gunnison County in addition to the neighboring Pitkin, Hinsdale, Delta, Ouray, and Saguache county commissions.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife. To learn more about legislation and issues important to BHA’s membership, visit www.backcountryhunters.org/our_issues.
In a new film from Todd Moen and Catch Magazine, anglers head to Eleven Angling’s Owen River Lodge in New Zealand to fly fish for trout.
From Eleven Angling
New Zealand’s expansive wilderness, remote waters, and impressive numbers of large wild trout are among the reasons anglers travel great distances to fish this country’s rivers and lakes. This fishing experience out of Owen River Lodge is now highlighted in a new video from Todd Moen and Catch Magazine. Learn more about Owen River Lodge at the link below. https://elevenexperience.com/owen-riv…
April Vokey and her daughter take on cold weather conditions on the White River in Arkansas in a video from Anchored Outdoors.
From Anchored Outdoors:
“Once home to the world record brown trout, the White River in Arkansas has some huge fish in it. While we didn’t catch any enormous fish, we did have a great time fishing it for the first time as a family.
A little known fact is that I actually used to live in Arkansas and had a handful of friends who still lived there. A couple of these friends are Steve and Rebekka Dally, who I’d met through the fishing scene close to 20 years ago. So we headed over to Mountain Home, where we were scheduled to fish a few days with Steve and one of his guides.”
To check out more from Anchored Outdoors, please click here.
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Disclosure: Anchored Outdoors is in a professional relationship with the The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
From El Pescador:
San Pedro, Belize – El Pescador Resort is thrilled to announce an exclusive musical event, “A Nashville Grand Slam at El Pescador,” featuring country music artists and songwriters Wynn Varble, Erik Dylan, and Matt Warren, each with chart-topping hits. This unique event will take place from Thursday, January 23rd through Saturday, January 25th, 2024.
Event Highlights:
- Concert Date: Saturday, January 25th
- Meet the Artists at Happy Hour: Thursday, January 23rd, and Friday, January 24th
- Event Package: Minimum 4-night stay with a Food & Beverage package
- Flats Fishing and Excursions Available
Join us for an unforgettable experience at El Pescador, where the heart of Nashville’s country music scene meets the tranquil beauty of Belize. This event promises intimate access to celebrated songwriters who have penned number one hits.
Meet the Artists:
Guests will have the unique opportunity to meet and talk with the artists behind some of the biggest hits in country music today. Engage with them about their creative process and inspirations. Enjoy an up-close and personal experience with these amazing talents.
Package Details:
- A minimum 4-night stay at El Pescador Resort
- Comprehensive Food & Beverage package
- Options to add fishing or excursions to your visit
- Exclusive access to all concert and meet-and-greet events
- Limited edition T-shirt for all attendees
This event is a must-attend for country music enthusiasts and anyone looking to enjoy a blend of world-class entertainment and luxury accommodations. Book your stay now and secure your place at this unparalleled musical event.
For reservations and more information, please visit our website at www.elpescador.com, contact our reservations team at info@elpescador.com, or call 727-366-2020.
About the Artists:
Wynn Varble
Wynn Varble’s love for country music started early, and after years of performing, he moved to Nashville. His first radio single was “Fit To Be Tied Down” by Sammy Kershaw. Wynn went on to write three No. 1 hits: “Have You Forgotten” by Darryl Worley, “Waitin’ On A Woman” by Brad Paisley, and “I’m A Little More Country Than That” by Easton Corbin, all of which were nominated for “Song of the Year” by the CMA or ACM. Wynn has also had songs recorded by Garth Brooks, Cody Johnson, Jon Pardi, and others. In 2009, he was honored as the Nashville Songwriters Association’s Songwriter of the Year. Wynn continues to write and tour extensively and is signed with BMG Music Publishing.
Erik Dylan
A frequent collaborator with Luke Combs and Riley Green, Dylan contributed to Combs’ record-breaking album What You See Is What You Get and co-wrote Green’s No. 1 hit “There Was This Girl” & singles “Damn Good Day To Leave” / “If It Wasn’t For Trucks”. The Kansas native also has songs recorded by Parker McCollum, Brantley Gilbert, Elvie Shane, Ashland Craft, Kip Moore, Trisha Yearwood, Tim Montana, Justin Moore, Eli Young Band, Brent Cobb, Cody Johnson, and more.
As an artist, Dylan has enjoyed success with his “JJ’s Market,” named one of American Songwriter’s Top 20 Songs of 2020, and his albums Heart of a Flatland Boy (2016) and Baseball on the Moon (2018), featuring duets with Steve Earle and Combs.
Matt Warren
Matt Warren, a Nashville native, signed his first publishing deal with House of Fame in Muscle Shoals, AL, in 2002. His first cut, “Puttin’ Memories Away,” co-written with Gary Allan, was featured in Rolling Stone and on The Oprah Winfrey Show. In 2009, he won an ASCAP award for the top 10 hit “Learning How to Bend”. In 2013, he received an ASCAP award for the No. 1 smash “Every Storm (Runs Out Of Rain)”, which was also nominated for the 2014 ACM Song of the Year. Warren’s songs have been recorded by artists such as Gary Allan, Darius Rucker, Robert Randolph & the Family Band, Andy Frasco & the UN, Bucky Covington, and Jim Lauderdale. Currently, he has 4 songs on Gary Allan’s latest record, Ruthless.
As an artist, Warren released his solo album in 2013 and a full-length record with his band Goodfoot in 2023. He will be releasing new material as a solo artist in 2024 under a new worldwide publishing deal with Lady Luck and Yellow Mountain Music publishing.
About El Pescador Resort:
El Pescador Resort is a premier beachfront destination in San Pedro, Belize, known for its luxurious accommodations, exceptional service, and unique experiences. Nestled in a tropical paradise, El Pescador offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it the ideal venue for exclusive events and memorable getaways.
For press inquiries, please contact: John Caparella Managing Director johnc@elpescador.com Mobile/WhatsApp: +1 407-766-5353
For Reservations: visit www.elpescador.com or email info@elpescador.com or call 727-366-2020.
In a new video from The Mission, anglers head to Dullstroom, South Africa to fly fish for trout.
From The Mission:
“While experiencing Dullstroom trout fly fishing in style at Walkersons Hotel & Spa (golf carts, chonky troot, spa treatments and fine dining), Matt Kennedy found that he had a few lessons to learn about fly fishing for what he considered “easy trout fishing”. Film (and lessons) by The Mission’s Matt Kennedy: / polaroidmatt“
To check out more from The Mission, please click here.
| From Hardy:COLUMBIA, S.C. (Sept 10, 2024) – For over 135 years, Hardy has been the name synonymous with “Perfect” fly reels. Never content, the Hardy engineers consistently strive for enhancements in their search for true perfection. Today, Hardy is excited to announce the latest addition to its legendary lineup: the upgraded 1921 Wide Spool Perfect fly reel. Already celebrated as the epitome of excellence in fly fishing reels, this iconic reel has been finely tuned to offer even greater precision, durability, and versatility – enhanced with a nod to the past, ensuring that it remains, well, perfect for years to come.At the core of this upgraded model is the 1921 Perfect check mechanism, a signature feature that has long been celebrated for its precision and reliability among fly fishing aficionados. This classic mechanism has been refined to offer smoother performance, ensuring that anglers continue to enjoy the seamless experience they have come to expect from the Hardy Perfect. The polished brass/bright nickel-plated revolving line guard is a showpiece and adds a nod to the past when old fly lines would pick up debris and degrade the line guard. While a revolving line guard isn’t necessary with today’s modern fly lines, this added touch is the perfect addition marrying historical charm with Hardy’s impeccable craftsmanship.But it’s not just the mechanics that make this reel stand out. The two-toned anodized finish, inspired by the elegant designs of the 1930’s, adds a layer of sophistication and durability, ensuring that the 1921 Wide Spool Perfect is as tough as it is stylish. This upgraded finish complements the reel’s construction, which features bar stock aluminum and a naval brass one-piece spindle – ingredients that make it a reel worth passing down for generations to come.The 1921 Wide Spool Perfect is available in quarter inch size increments starting at 3” and going to 4” and come in both right- and left-hand models. Whether you target small wild trout or bigger game, there’s a Perfect for every purpose. And when it’s time to pack it up and go home for the day, the reel comes housed in a soft leather, sheepskin-lined Hardy reel pouch – keeping your Perfect in pristine condition.With the latest upgrade, Hardy has once again perfected perfection. The 1921 Wide Spool Perfect is a blend of tradition and innovation, allowing anglers to enjoy the best of Hardy’s heritage while benefiting from today’s modern advancements. |
| HARDY 1921 WIDE SPOOL PERFECT KEY FEATURES• 1921 Perfect check mechanism• Revolving line guard• Classic wide spool design• Machined from bar stock aluminum with navel brass 1pc spindle• Deep anodized two-tone finish• Available in left- and right-hand wind models• Supplied in a soft leather, sheepskin-lined Hardy reel pouchMSRP: $795.00 – 895.00AVAILABLE: September 2024For more information about Hardy products, visitwww.HardyFishing.com. |
From Hardy:
| COLUMBIA, S.C. (Sept. 5, 2024) – Hardy is proud to announce the launch of the Averon Euro Nymph, a state-of-the-art fly-fishing reel crafted specifically to meet the unique demands of Euro Nymphing. As this technique gains traction in the United States, the Averon Euro Nymph stands out as the new standard of innovation and design, offering fly anglers a tool that not only meets, but exceeds, the exacting standards of technical light line river angling.Originating from competitive fly fishing in Europe, Euro Nymphing has rapidly gained popularity worldwide for its effectiveness in catching trout under diverse conditions. This technique is characterized by its use of longer, thinner leaders, weighted nymphs, and a single line system, all of which require precision and sensitivity. Euro Nymphing is a delicate balance of high-sticking, where the angler holds a bright-colored sighter off the water’s surface, detecting the most subtle of takes with a soft-tipped rod.In this technique, every aspect of the equipment must work harmoniously, which is where the Averon Euro Nymph reel truly shines.At the heart of the Averon Euro Nymph is a shallow, narrow profile larger arbor spool, engineered for rapid line pick-up and neat stacking. The fine-tolerance machining of the Averon has been further tightened in this Euro Nymph specific model to optimize performance with small diameter lines. The precision reduces line slip and virtually eliminates the risk of snagging, a common challenge when using thin lines in conventional fly reels. The full cage design, coupled with reduced frame tolerances, ensures that even the smallest of lines stay in place, allowing the angler to focus entirely on their technique.The Averon Euro Nymph’s super large arbor, combined with its narrow spool design, provides an ideal balance between line capacity and speed of retrieval. This feature is complemented by an enclosed multi- pad disc drag system, delivering smooth performance that is both reliable and easy to adjust.For anglers who require quick and precise drag adjustments, the two and a half turn indexed drag is a catch saver. This, along with the ultra-low startup inertia, makes sure that every subtle strike is felt and every fish fought with optimal control, making the Averon Euro Nymph an indispensable tool for the technical river angler.Understanding the physical demands of Euro Nymphing, the Averon Euro Nymph features a simple, secure weighting system that allows for fine-tuning of the rod/reel balance. The reel is supplied with three optional balance weights (0.6 oz, 1.2 oz, and 1.8 oz). These weights enable the angler to achieve the perfect in-hand balance, especially when paired with longer, technical river rods, reducing fatigue during long sessions on the water.With the launch of the Averon Euro Nymph, Hardy continues its legacy of innovation, precision, and quality in fly fishing reels. This reel is more than just a tool; it is a testament to Hardy’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of anglers worldwide. |
| HARDY AVERON EURO NYMPH KEY FEATURES• Super large arbor, narrow spool design• Full cage frame• Reduced frame tolerances to reduce line escape• Supplied with 3-optional balance weights | 0.6oz • 1.2oz • 1.8oz• Optimized for ‘in hand’ balanceMODEL: HRAVER50ENMSRP: $395.00AVAILABLE: September 2024For more information about Hardy products, visitwww.HardyFishing.com. |
Oman, Argentina, Poland, and more! The new issue of In the Loop magazine is loaded with destination content from all over the world. Among the highlights, saltwater enthusiasts will likely love a great feature on the Cocos Keeling Islands.
To check out the new issue of In the Loop, please click here.
It’s been quite a few years since we were blown away with PROVIDENCE — a fly fishing film from Confluence Films (see review here). We also interviewed angler and filmmaker Jim Klug about the film (see here). PROVIDENCE is now available to watch online.
From Yellow Dog Flyfishing:
“In the fifth full-length fly fishing film from Confluence Films, American angler Camille Egdorf, and South African guides Gerhard Laubscher and Tim Babich team up for an amazing journey and a return to the remote and uninhabited Seychelles atoll of Providence. The film chronicles the first trip back to Providence Atoll since the waters were closed to all fishermen and boat access in 2010 due to the threats and activities of pirates operating out of Somalia. The team returned in October of 2015, spending three weeks exploring the atoll and fishing for multiple flats species including giant trevally, bluefin trevally, bumphead parrotfish, bonefish, Indo-Pacific permit, triggerfish and more. An amazing story of adventure, piracy, challenging fish, the history of the area and untouched flats.”
To check out more from Yellow Dog Flyfishing, please click here.
The Mission is back with a new issue of their popular magazine. Issue 47 (now live online) features fly fishing action from the Congo River, a saltwater trip in Mozambique, and more.
To check out the new issue of The Mission, please click here.
A true fly fishing adventure in Russia is the focus of 4 Weeks of Daylight — a film from The Fly Fishing Nation that is now available to watch online.
From The Fly Fishing Nation:
“‘We’ve fished all of the Kola and recognize that the location and all the preliminary information is incredibly provocative and that the Lumbovka and Kachkovka may be the most important fisheries to emerge on the Atlantic Salmon scene in recent years.’ Mike Michalak – The Fly Shop
The Kola Reserve has recently gathered a cadre of professional fly-fishing pioneers led by Stephan Dombaj of Fly Fishing Nation on a mission to determine whether rumors of the existence of two phenomenal, lost, and completely private Atlantic Salmon fisheries on the northern coast of the Kola Peninsula in Russia were true. Adding to the intrigue and speculation was the fact that both rivers flow north into the Barents Sea at a point only slightly southeast of the trophy-laden Yokanga and to the northwest of the prolific Ponoi. They are dead-center in the heart of a region famous for trophy-sized Atlantic salmon, numbers of grilse, and large Osenka (fall run) Atlantics. The rivers are completely private and have been designated catch-and-release, fly-fishing-only fisheries that will remain shielded from poaching, commercial harvest, and exploitation. Members of the exploratory team of anglers stayed on for the next months, filing daily reports on their successes and recording the entire, incredible experience on film. They were joined occasionally by members of the family, owners of the Kola Reserve, who were active participants in the angling survey.
The Kola Reserve was purchased by the family in 2018. Both drainages and fisheries have been set aside in perpetuity with the goal of preserving and protecting this part of Russia’s pristine, untouched wilderness while adding to some of the best fishing for Atlantic salmon found in the world. Join the exploration team to the Kola Peninsula and get a glimpse of the secret of their craft and a first inside look at the Lumbovka and Kachkovka rivers in this 17-minute version exclusively edited for the Fly Fishing Film Festivals. A full-length feature film will air in spring 2020.
Cast:
Scouts: Stephan Dombaj, Paulo Hoffmann, Alexander Keus, Tobias Park, Erik Nerland, Matt Harris, Justin Miller
Special Guests: Jasper Pääkkönen, Yvon Chouinard,
Location: Kola Reserve – Kola Peninsula – Russia (www.kola-reserve.com)
Director of Photography: Gregory Hegel
Edited by: Gregory Hegel
Music by: The Heavy Eyes (These Men Are Wolfs, One Hand On The Buffalo)
Produced by Fly Fishing Nation Media in Cooperation with Kola Reserve Ex.
Producer: Stephan Dombaj Special
Thanks to: Loop Tackle Design, The Fly Shop, ADH Fishing, Ahrex Hooks, Frödin Flies, FStop Gear”
To check out more from The Fly Fishing Nation, please click here.
What an eat! Camille Egdorf takes on GTs at Providence Atoll in a great video from Yellow Dog.
From Yellow Dog Flyfishing:
“Fly fishing for giant trevally on the flats of the Seychelles, as seen in the film PROVIDENCE. One of the most captivating fly fishing films ever made will be released on the Yellow Dog YouTube Channel on Tuesday, September 3rd at 7:00 AM EST!!”
To check out more from Yellow Dog Flyfishing, please click here.
From Protect Our Winters:
BOULDER, CO (August 27, 2024) – Today, Protect Our Winters (POW) announced an expanded Stoke Fest Film Tour, with six fall stops across Colorado, Montana, and Nevada plus a virtual event open to all. As part of POW’s Stoke The Vote campaign, it will bring its world-class content created through the Grant program on tour to public venues and college locations. POW Founder and Professional Snowboarder Jeremy Jones and Professional Skier and POW Alliance Athlete Amie Engerbretson will be at all tour stops, in addition to special local Alliance Creatives, Scientists, and Athletes. Tickets for all locations are availablehere.
“At POW, we’re all about rallying the outdoor community to make a real impact on climate, and storytelling is one of our key tools to make that happen. We’re dedicated to sharing powerful stories of climate action that inspire the Outdoor State to take meaningful steps for their country and communities, both now and in the future,” says Donny O’Neill, POW Content Director. “This commitment shines through in the exceptional films we’re bringing to this year’s Stoke Fest tour, and it’s echoed by our Alliance members who are passionate about sharing these narratives with our audience and beyond. This isn’t just a film tour; it’s a reflection of the climate movement in action.”
POW invites the Outdoor State to come together for films, panel discussions, and a chance to win prizes from POW brand partners. With tour dates less than four weeks before the most critical election of our lifetime, Stoke Fest is more than a celebration – it’s a call to action to Show Up, Speak Out, and Vote.
Stoke Fest Film Festival Tour Spots Include:
● October 7, Bozeman, MT at The ELM Theatre
● October 8, Missoula, MT at The Wilma Theatre
● October 10, Glenwood Springs, CO at Colorado Mountain College
● October 11, Durango, CO at Fort Lewis College
● October 15, Reno, NV at University of Nevada
● October 29, Virtual Stoke Fest + Election Phone Banking Event
POW will screen a range of new films being released in the coming weeks, in addition to The Hypocrite, Amie Engerbretson’s documentary film that addresses imperfect climate advocacy. Amie explores her own perceived hypocrisy, and throughout the film, dissects her inner battles with advocating for the climate while pursuing travel that leads to a potentially significant carbon footprint. Along the way, she connects with fellow athletes to discuss a shared passion for the outdoors and the climate conversation.
Each location will feature unique programs showcasing national and regional film projects and panels with the POW Alliance to create community conversation. In addition, at select Stoke Fest tour stops, POW will feature photo exhibits from Creative Alliance members Ming Poon and Brennan Lagasse as well as Sofia Jaramillo, including:
● “Education Unbound”- Ming and Brennan showcase their recent trip to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to spread the community’s stories far and wide and inspire the masses to take action and permanently protect the Arctic Refuge.
● “A New Winter” – Sofia highlights the historical evolution and commercialization of skiing, which has largely excluded BIPOC communities, and reimagines historic ski images with BIPOC models to challenge these racist origins and inspire a more inclusive future in winter sports and outdoor recreation.
Don’t live in one of the locations where POW is hosting an in-person Stoke Fest? On October 29, just one week before the election, enjoy POW’s FREE Virtual Stoke Fest from the comfort of your home with Jeremy Jones and other Alliance members. POW will screen Jones’ latest film project, among other short films, host a panel discussion, and end the evening with phone banking to rally the Outdoor State to the polls! RSVP for the Virtual Stoke Fest here.
It’s hard to beat the explosive surface action that can occur when fishing hoppers. Trout on hoppers in Montana is the focus of “Prairie Hoppers” — a new film from WildFly Productions.
From WildFly Productions:
“Prairie Hoppers documents a trip to Montana in 2021 with my buddy Will Phelps to chase big browns on small water. We made our way out to some off-the-beaten-path creeks that are known to hold big trout with the hopes of them coming up to eat our foam flies. You may have seen the series in the past, but we’re stoked to re-release this project now as a full film. Enjoy!”
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
From Patagonia:
Jon Waterman is an award-winning author and photographer renowned for his immersive explorations of wilderness and environmental issues. With a prolific body of work encompassing 17 books and five films, including ESPN’s Emmy-winning “Surviving Denali”and National Geographic’s Atlas of Wild America, Waterman has earned acclaim for his deep connection to nature and his ability to inspire readers to protect the planet’s natural wonders.
This Fall, Patagonia will publish Into the Thaw: Witnessing Wonder Amid the Arctic Climate Crisis (Oct. 22, 2024, hardcover), a book drawn from his life’s most profound journeys. Waterman—whose wide-ranging expeditions include a first winter ascent of Denali’s Cassin Ridge, kayaking North America’s Northwest Passage, dogsledding up Canada’s Mount Logan, sailing to Hawaii, and boating the Colorado River from source to sea—says Into the Thaw is his most important work yet.
More than 40 years ago, he worked as a mountaineering ranger at Alaska’s Denali National Park, and his 1983 patrol to the Noatak River in Gates of the Arctic National Park sparked a lifetime fascination with the wild, remote regions of the North. He was astonished by the abundant wildlife above the Arctic Circle, amid a strange landscape and otherworldly light—how the “frequent rain showers glow like lemonade poured out of the sky.”
Transitioning from park ranger to an adventure and environmental writer, Waterman embarked on scores of expeditions to the North, often traveling solo by boat and on foot to document the natural wonders and cultural heritage across Arctic North America.
After a long hiatus from the Noatak headwaters, he returned with his son in 2021, witnessing firsthand the effects of climate change that he chronicled in a New York Times op-ed: “36 Years Later, the Climate Changes at This National Park Stunned Me.” Amid a river now flooded, overgrown with brush, and bereft of once-abundant caribou, he was deeply disheartened by the many transformations.
In 2022, Waterman took a final, extended expedition “into the thaw” with the professional kayaker and photographer Chris Korbulic to carefully document the environmental and cultural changes precipitated by the climate crisis. They covered more than 500 miles on foot and by packraft down the entire river, then up the coast, passing through three different National Park Service managed lands to meet with scientists, interview Iñupiat (the Alaskan Inuit), investigate the many impacts of the Arctic climate crisis, and celebrate the enduring wonder of this special place.
Into the Thaw alternates between adventure and wilderness memoir, side-noted with scholarly research into climate change and natural history. Waterman recounts encounters with bears, enduring weeks alone amidst swarms of mosquitoes, and witnessing phenomena like the Greening of the Arctic, teardrop-shaped landslides (thermokarsts) caused by thawing permafrost, and an increasing loss of sea ice as he travels along the Chukchi and Beaufort Seas. The book features stunning color photographs and detailed maps. Complimentary Reader’s and Teacher’s Guides, as well as an interactive story map, will be available at Patagonia.com.
Waterman not only shows how climate change has impacted the land, sea, and animals, but also the kindhearted, welcoming Inuit people. Most affected by a crisis that has heated up the Arctic several times faster than the rest of the world, the ever-resilient villagers share how their age-old culture has attempted to cope with “the thaw.” Waterman paints an intimate portrait of both the Inuit and the little-visited North—with its treasured park lands—because “it’s high time that we truly understand the Arctic,” he writes, “lest we forget what it once was.”
Despite the unfolding climate crisis, Into the Thaw is a book about wonder—and through one man’s life-changing experiences in the wilderness—the narrative ends with a message of hope, urging actionable steps to mitigate further thawing and preserve the Arctic’s extraordinary biodiversity and cultural heritage.
About the Author
Jon Waterman has worked as a director of a small press, an editor, a naturalist, a park ranger, a wilderness guide, a photographer, and a filmmaker. Among his many publications, Jon’s work has often appeared in The New York Times, Outside, Men’s Journal, Adventure, Climbing, and Sailing World. His 17 books include In the Shadow of Denali, Kayaking the Vermilion Sea, and Running Dry; he is a frequent grantee of the National Geographic Society. By taking risks and tackling difficult issues, his work transcends traditional outdoor yarns and has garnered numerous awards, including a Literary Fellowship from the National Endowment of the Arts, three Best Adventure Book Awards from the Banff Book Festival, a National Park Service Special Achievement Award, and the Sigurd Olson Nature Writing Award. He lives in Carbondale, Colorado.
Praise“A beautiful, compelling book about the profound effects of anthropogenic climate change on America’s last and grandest wilderness.” —Roman Dial, Arctic scientist and author of The Adventurer’s Son
“Into the Thaw is an eloquent, impassioned, and essential elegy for the far north.” —Michael Finkel, bestselling author of The Stranger in the Woods and The Art Thief
“A marvelous compendium of Jon Waterman’s forty years in the high Arctic of Alaska and Nunavut. Combining geology, anthropology, climate science with intimate journal entries, Waterman’s wanderings etch into our minds a vivid view of wild beauty, collapsing villages, icescapes and tundra, deeply altered by a changing climate. This lovely book is a joy to read and a warning.” —Gretel Ehrlich, author of The Solace of Open Spaces and This Cold Heaven
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH — Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) – North America’s premiere advocacy group that serves as the voice for our nation’s wild public lands, waters and wildlife – vehemently opposes the recent legal maneuver by the state of Utah aimed at seizing control of 18.5 million acres of federal public lands.
A long-standing grudge against federal public lands – lands intended to be accessible by and for all Americans – has resulted in the Utah state legislature attempting to remove from the public domain one of the crown jewels of North American conservation: our public lands. Utah officials are seeking control of unappropriated Bureau of Land Management territory, a profound misstep in the ideology of public land management and stewardship of natural resources in Utah. The proposed transfer of federal lands to state control also raises grave concerns about the potential for increased commercial exploitation, increased costs to state budgets, diminished conservation efforts, and restricted public access. BHA stands firmly in opposition to this legal maneuver, which directly attacks the shared heritage of public lands and waters that provide hunting and angling opportunities for sportsmen and women.
“Americans who love to hunt, fish, and enjoy the outdoors rely on public lands across this country as a place where they can pursue their passions and pass down our outdoor heritage from generation to generation,” said BHA president & CEO Patrick Berry. “An attempted land grab by the Utah legislature of assets owned by all Americans is a shameful, short-sighted way to make political points. Public lands are the national treasure that support our way of life, conserve wildlife, and provide recreational opportunities for everyone. Allowing state control would risk the integrity of these lands, ultimately leading towards privatization and exclusion for all but those with the deepest pockets.”
This attack follows in the footsteps of Rep. Jason Chaffetz (R-UT) who withdrew legislation in 2017 following an outpouring from BHA’s grassroots advocates and sportsmen and women nationwide that would have divested public lands from the American public. BHA has long stood in staunch opposition to legislators and lobbyists who have tried to wrest control of these lands from federal hands; that’s why the Utah chapter of BHA is, once again, pushing back against this ill-advised proposal.
“While our state government claims it is committed to keeping public lands in public hands, the only guarantee that comes from such a transfer is the removal of these existing federal protections and increased exposure to privatization,” said Caitlin Curry, vice chair for the Utah chapter of BHA.
BHA stands firmly in defense of the current federal land management system, which for decades has proven to be effective in conserving natural landscapes under its multiple use mandate. BHA members and supporters urge Utah’s leaders to reconsider this approach and to work collaboratively with federal agencies to address any concerns through established channels that don’t compromise the conservation value of public lands and the public’s right to recreate in the state of Utah.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.
https://www.backcountryhunters.org
Permit eating flies of the surface?! This is in fact the story behind What Lies Above — a film that follows anglers in pursuit of permit in Mexico.
From the Fly Fishing Nation:
“What Lies Above is a fly fishing film that tells the story of a unique change in the feeding behavior of an Atlantic permit along the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. An increase in the amount of a floating seaweed called Sargassum being driven into the coastline is creating havoc with tourism and the environment as it piles up and rots. However, a crab that dwells within it, a crab that lives in this floating mass now become a regular food source, and the permit in Xcalak, Mexico have learned to hunt it on the water’s surface.
Join Chase Looney and guide Raul Sanchez on the hunt for permit on the surface in this extraordinary town.”
To check out more from the Fly Fishing Nation, please click here.
A new issue of Catch Magazine is now live online. This outstanding destination-focused magazine takes on Eastern Idaho, Alaska, New Zealand, and more. There is also a great new video from Todd Moen.
To check out the new issue of Catch Magazine, please click here.
Queenfish in Dubai! Anglers pursue an exciting acrobatic fish within view of the Dubai skyline in a video from The Mission.
From The Mission:
“While taking in all the skyscrapers, fancy cars and the general otherworldly experience that Dubai is, The Mission’s Matt Kennedy found that the true wealth of the desert city was in its prolific shoals of queenfish that local outfitter Ocean Active Fly are tapping into.”
To check out more from The Mission, please click here.
A thrilling permit eat in Cosmo!
From the Fly Fishing Nation:
“The GT capital of the world has so much more to offer than world-class GT fly fishing. Just a short ride from the eco-lodge, we found ourselves in the midst of two permit cruising on a ray, aggressively feeding on crustaceans. Keith Rose Innes joined us that day, and together with guide Jonathan Naude and a few Seybrews, we managed to distract the permit from the ray. Watch the whole thing unfold…”
To check out more from the Fly Fishing Nation, please click here.
Anglers take a road trip in Montana and fly fish for trout with bamboo rods in a new video from WildFly Productions.
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
From Simms:
Bozeman, Mont. (August 5, 2024) – Simms Fishing Products, preeminent manufacturer of waders, outerwear, footwear, and technical fishing apparel launch Fall 2024, a product collection inspired by the world’s fishiest destinations and built to keep anglers warm and dry regardless of the conditions.
Simms views the world through the lens of fishing. Whether close to home or across an ocean, there’s more to every destination than meets the eye. Spanning across all categories, Fall 2024 caters to anglers who are either aiming to, or actively engaged in, unpacking their own personal bucket list. Every piece of gear and apparel in this collection embodies’ Simms’ commitment to enabling every angler to fully enjoy their passion with both comfort and confidence.
“We are really excited about the solutions we’re delivering for anglers with our Fall 2024 collection. The fall season always presents interesting problems to solve: cold, wet, windy weather combined with incredible angling opportunities in many fisheries” says Ben Christensen, Head of Simms. “Fall 2024 is reflective of our commitment to superior materials, technology, and product design. This is true across the line whether the product is intended purely for on-water use, or for the angling lifestyle.”
Leading the charge of Fall 2024 and exemplifying the destination theme is the all-new Tailwind Collection, a collection of luggage with only one thing on its mind — fishing. Serving as the anchor of the collection is the Tailwind 100L Roller. Constructed with a rugged, compression-molded, water-resistant exterior, the Tailwind Roller is the go-to companion to support the longest and most ambitious trips. Built with a lightweight yet durable aluminum frame, the Roller features a 270-degree main opening to expose a cavernous main compartment. A zippered face pocket on the front allows quick access to smaller items, and zippered mesh pockets underneath the lid provide optimal organization. Internal compression straps secure gear while in transit and two highly durable handles located on both sides offer easy lifting and loading capabilities.
For a soft-sided, high-capacity option, the Tailwind Collection includes the 80L- and 50L-Duffel. Utilizing the same abrasion, tear, and water-resistant fabric as the Roller, both duffels offer a clamshell style opening to a spacious main compartment. Both feature a zippered stash pocket on the top and also come equipped with zippered mesh organization pockets underneath the lid. Additional storage includes a secondary zippered compartment on the bottom to store dirty and/or wet clothes for the trip back home. Finally, the duffels include a deployable, stowable, and removable shoulder harness for a convenient backpack carry option.
To safely store hardgoods such as rods and reels, the Tailwind collection is also inclusive of the award-wining Rod & Reel Vault. Built with a sturdy compression molded 900D ballistic polyester for reliable performance, the Tailwind Rod & Reel Vault features a clamshell opening with customizable internal organization panels. Accessory pockets under the lid offer a convenient place to stash fly lines and fly boxes, and a removable shoulder harness provides anglers with a convenient backpack style carry option. The Vault can easily accommodate multiple 4-piece rods up to 10 feet and multiple reels. Other members of the family include the Tailwind Backpack, the Tailwind Rod Cannon, and the Tailwind Reel Vault.
Fall 2024 has also been revamped to include several fantastic new options in the footwear category. For salt water enthusiasts, the new Zipit Bootie is built with a combination of neoprene and vulcanized rubber for comfort, traction and stability. Equipped with a non-corrosive zipper on the side, anglers can slide in and out of the bootie with ease. Simms beloved Challenger collection expands with the addition of the all-new Challenger Insulated Boot. Constructed with a 7mm neoprene upper, the 14” boot features vulcanized rubber for durability and stability and a grid-fleece liner for optimal warmth. In addition, Simms is also proud to introduce the Challenger Slip-On Shoe, built with the same materials and components, the Slip-On provides anglers with a 5” on-deck option.
Simms sportswear category continues to grow with new offerings in both technical and lifestyle apparel. With a burly DWR treated Nylon exterior, the Gallatin Chore Coat provides cozy warmth with its brushed flannel liner. The Bristol Reversible Jacket is another exciting new piece that provides anglers with a rugged insulated flannel and a techy DWR insulated jacket in a single garment. Powered by PrimaLoft Eco Black insulation, the Bristol Reversible offers anglers superior warmth and versatility.
On the technical side, Simms’ all-new Confluence Shirt is built with performance driven fabrics that stretch to provide a completely unhindered range-of-motion. Treated with DWR for water repellency, the shirt also features two vertical zippered gusseted chest pockets constructed with water resistant fabric.
With a DWR treated recycled stretch-knit exterior and a grid-fleece liner, the all-new Confluence Hoody ranks as a Fall 2024 standout in the Outerwear category. A five panel, close fitting hood complements a high collar for maximum warmth and bonded water-resistant chest pockets with vertical zippers provide low profile onbody storage. The jacket also includes two zippered handwarmer pockets that include bonus interior pockets ideal for storing a hat or a pair of gloves.
Women also have plenty of new technical and lifestyle apparel options to explore. For the rainy months ahead, Simms has implemented a revamp of the award-winning W’s G3 Guide Jacket. Built with a Women’s specific fit and 3-layer Gore-Tex Pro Shell fabric, the jacket comes equipped with a 3-point adjustable hood and adjustable cuffs designed to seal water out. For mobility, the jacket utilizes a strategically mapped fabric construction. Two oversized zippered chest pockets easily accommodate fly boxes and other small essentials while two zippered micro-fleece lined hand pockets provide revitalizing warmth. As a bonus, these handwarmer pockets also include interior zippers that allow anglers to access their waders without having to remove their jacket.
For windier days, the all-new W’s Tamarack Hoody is quickly becoming a favorite. Built with wind and water-resistant softshell fabric, the Tamarack Hoody is constructed with an ultra-warm faux fur interior. The jacket also features a zippered chest pocket to stash smaller accessories and two faux fur lined handwarmer pockets.
For layering, Women anglers now have access to the all-new W’s Thermal Jogger. Built with a smooth and stretchy knit face and a moisture wicking, antimicrobial treated grid fleece backside, the Women’s Thermal Jogger also comes equipped with a comfy stretch waist band with an adjustable drawcord.
All of the gear mentioned above are only a small portion of the all-new Fall 2024 product offering. Visit your local retailer or visit simmsfishing.com to see the Fall 2024 lineup in its entirety.
Every good boat captain has a good system for gear. In a video, Capt. Brett Martina breaks down his setup.
From YETI:
“YETI Ambassador Brett Martina takes a break from guiding on the water to guide us on how to set up a skiff for hunting monster tarpon.”
To check out more from YETI, please click here.
From Trout Unlimited:
Washington, DC – Today, the U.S. Senate passed the Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act of 2024 with unanimous consent, which would begin to address one of the most pervasive sources of water pollution across the West.
The legislation, spearheaded by U.S. Sens. Jim Risch (R-ID) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM), boasts a bipartisan group of 40 co-sponsors in the Senate. Good Samaritan legislation has been debated in Congress for more than two decades; this is the first time a bill has cleared a full chamber.
“Passage of the Good Samaritan legislation is the perfect demonstration of the application of common sense to common problems for the common good, and it validates TU’s approach of bridging divides to care for the lands and waters that sustain our great nation,” said Chris Wood, President and CEO of Trout Unlimited. “We thank Senators Risch and Heinrich for their unwavering commitment to cleaning up historic mine pollution and advancing the work of Good Samaritans across the country.”
“Tens of thousands of abandoned hardrock mines cause environmental damage across the West, impairing 40 percent of headwater streams. Today’s action is a turning point for clean water,” said Corey Fisher, Public Lands Policy Director at Trout Unlimited. “Without this Good Samaritan legislation, abandoned mines that could otherwise be remediated will continue to leach toxic pollutants into our watersheds and communities. We urge the House of Representatives to swiftly pass Good Samaritan legislation and clear the way for Good Samaritans to improve the health of our rivers and streams.”
Abandoned mines are historic mine sites – often a century or more old – where there are no parties who can be held responsible to clean up mine waste. Current federal laws treat volunteer organizations that want to clean up these abandoned mines—including state agencies and private non-profits groups like Trout Unlimited—as if they are the very polluters who left behind the mine waste. This creates daunting obstacles that prevent abandoned mine cleanups, including complicated permitting and long-term legal and financial liability for any remaining mine pollution.
The Good Samaritan legislation would establish a new program under the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) providing limited liability protections for up to 15 low-risk abandoned mine cleanup pilot projects conducted by state agencies, tribes, and qualified volunteer parties. Learn more about Good Samaritan legislation at https://www.tu.org/good-samaritan
In a new video, Will Phelps takes on the flats of the Bahamas in search of bonefish.
From Will Phelps:
“Bonefish are often regarded as the ultimate gamefish. Every moment spent walking nearly endless white sandy flats in pursuit of this species becomes a test of skill and patience. Join me and two friends as we embark on an unforgettable adventure across the continent to the breathtaking flats of the Bahamas.”
To check out more from Will Phelps, please click here.
In a somewhat unusual era of fly fishing history, respected anglers, musicians, writers, and more descended on the Florida Keys in the 1970s. The story of what unfolded is the focus of All That Is Sacred — a film from YETI.
From YETI:
“In the late 60’s a group of poets, writers and musicians descended upon the lawless tip of the United States to pursue their love of literature and fishing (and cocaine and acid). Initiated by Tom McGuane – the prodigal son of American Literature in the 1970’s – his friends Jim Harrison, Richard Brautigan, Russell Chatham and Jimmy Buffett soon joined him. This crew and that era were captured on film by Guy De La Valdene and Christian Odasso in an obscure documentary called ‘Tarpon’ in 1974. They went on to create some of the best art, poetry, novels, and music of their generation – but there will never be anything like Key West in the early 70’s. If you were lucky to survive it.”
To check out more from YETI, please click here.
Building upon the success of DRIFT and RISE, Confluence Films and Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures released WAYPOINTS in 2013, and the film inspired many anglers to take on new destinations throughout the world. WAYPOINTS is now available to watch on YouTube.
From Yellow Dog:
“In 2014 – Following in the footsteps of Confluence’s earlier releases DRIFT, RISE and CONNECT, WAYPOINTS is the most exotic, ambitious and in-depth feature-length project that Confluence has ever created. Shot around the world in both fresh and saltwater, locations include flats fishing St. Brandon’s Atoll in the Indian Ocean, trout fishing the wilds of Patagonian Chile, coastal Southeast Alaska for Steelhead, the Himalayan rivers of India for Golden Mahseer, and the jungles of Venezuela for saber-toothed payara. Confluence has become known for great stories, interesting character profiles, soulful interviews, an amazing diversity of species, and the finest cinematography in the world of fly fishing. WAYPOINTS delivers on all of these things and more. An incredible travel-logue-style fishing film that truly showcases not only the fly fishing lifestyle, but the journey itself as seen through the eyes of anglers Oliver White, Jeff Currier, Greg Bricker, Gerhard Laubscher, Rooster Leavens, and several other interesting and unique characters.”
To check out more from Yellow Dog, please click here.
From Shakespeare:
COLUMBIA, S.C. (July 17, 2024) – Shakespeare, a long-recognized name in the fishing industry, has won the Best Fly Combo category at the ICAST 2024 New Product Showcase for its Cedar Canyon Fly Combo.
Shakespeare’s mission is to provide anglers of all levels with the gear and support they need to succeed on the water. The brand is dedicated to supporting both avid fishermen and newcomers to the sport, regardless of age. The Cedar Canyon Combo comes ready to fish right out of the box, setting up its angler for success whether fishing in lakes, rivers, or streams.
“We are incredibly honored that the fishing community values what the Shakespeare brand offers to the industry,” said Marc Kempter, VP Marketing Communications for Shakespeare. “This ICAST category win symbolizes the importance of supporting new anglers entering our sport. At Shakespeare, we invest a lot of thought and time into designing gear that helps anglers advance and succeed. We are honored to receive this New Product Showcase award from ICAST.”
The Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Carbon Fly Rod and Combo features a versatile medium-fast action carbon composite blank designed to provide both beginners and more experienced casters with the ideal balance of power and flex for smooth casting. The Cedar Canyon Carbon Combo kit is perfect for anglers seeking an affordable yet quality setup. This graphite rod is paired with a modern large-arbor click-check reel, which comes fully rigged with backing, a high-quality weight-forward floating line, and a tapered leader. Additionally, the combo includes a selection of flies and casting instructions to help beginners hit the water completely ready to fish.
The Cedar Canyon Combo will be available in September 2024. For more information about Shakespeare, please click here.
CEDAR CANYON CARBON COMBO
● Light & durable 8ft, 4pc carbon composite fly rod
● Lightweight graphite Cedar Canyon click fly reel
● Fitted WF fly line & backing
● Supplied with fly selection & tapered leader
● Includes casting instructions and diagrams
SIZES: 5/6 wt (MSRP: $64.99) • 7/8 wt (MSRP: $69.99)
From Simms:
Simms Fishing Products Clinches Four ‘Best in Category’ Awards
at the World’s Largest Sport Fishing Trade Show
Bozeman, Mont. (July 17, 2024) – Simms Fishing Products, preeminent manufacturer of waders, outerwear, footwear, and technical fishing apparel kick off ICAST 2024 with four best in category victories at the ASA New Product Showcase Reception.
Renowned for their commitment to innovation and quality in technical and lifestyle fishing apparel, Simms proudly unveiled their long-awaited Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 product collections. These new lines continue Simms’ tradition of blending cutting-edge technology with unparalleled craftsmanship, catering to the diverse needs of angling enthusiasts worldwide.
The Fall 2024 collection features a range of gear designed to withstand the rigors of the season, from advanced outerwear engineered for warmth and durability to meticulously crafted accessories that enhance performance in challenging conditions. Each product in this collection reflects Simms’ dedication to ensuring that every angler can pursue their passion comfortably and confidently.
Looking ahead to Spring 2025, Simms presents a lineup that embraces technical innovation. From lightweight, packable waders to versatile fishing apparel, every item in the Spring 2025 collection exemplifies Simms’ ongoing commitment to quality, durability, and comfort.
“We are thrilled to unveil our Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 collections,” said Patterson Leeth, Director of Marketing at Simms. “In my mind, these collections truly embody our dedication to craftsmanship and innovation, ensuring that all anglers fishing all ecosystems can confidently enjoy their time on the water from sunup to sundown.
At the 2024 American Sport Fishing Association’s (ASA) New Product Showcase Reception held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, Simms tallied four best in category awards as followed:
Best Cold Weather Tech Apparel: Simms Pro Dry Suit
Best Fly Fishing Backpack, Bag & Luggage: Simms Tailwind Rod and Reel Vault
Best Warm Weather Tech Apparel for Women: Simms Women’s Latitude Hoody
Best Fly Fishing Chest, Sling, Hip, Pack: Simms Headwaters Sling Pack
With their Fall 2024 (launching August 2024) and Spring 2025 (launching January 2025) product collections, Simms once again sets the standard in technical gear and lifestyle fishing apparel, ensuring anglers can pursue their passion in comfort, and with confidence and style.
For more information and to check out the entire Simms product collection, visit your local retailer or www.simmfishing.com
About Simms Fishing Products
Established in 1980, Simms is the preeminent manufacturer of waders, outerwear and technical fishing apparel and accessories. The full line of Simms gear is available at specialty and large format retailers across North America as well as www.simmsfishing.com.
From Pure Fishing:
COLUMBIA, S.C. (July 17, 2024) – Shakespeare has been a trusted companion for outdoor enthusiasts, fostering cherished memories and deep connections with nature. The new Cedar Canyon Series of fly rods and combos promises fly anglers and the fly curious, quality gear essentials, all offered at great value.
The Shakespeare Cedar Canyon fly rod series offers quality performance rods perfect for anyone from youth and beginners to intermediate fly anglers looking to advance their skills. Whether fishing with a loved one for the first time or aiming for your first big catch, having the right fly rod can quickly turn the fishing curious into an enthusiastic angler. Shakespeare has meticulously designed three levels of rods to suit various skill levels, ensuring the best experience possible.
The Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Elite fly rod and combo are the most advanced in the series, offering maximum value for the discerning angler. The 4-piece, 9-foot fly rod stands out with its high-performance, medium-fast action blank, and top-quality components. Designed for those who appreciate precision and finesse, the Elite Series combines advanced engineering with premium materials, ensuring a seamless casting experience and exceptional durability. The Cedar Canyon Elite Combo perfectly matches the rod with a fully rigged graphite disc drag reel. The combo comes pre-spooled with line, so anglers only need to add a leader and their favorite fly, and they’re ready to fish with a well-balanced setup.
The Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Carbon fly rod and combo features a versatile medium-fast action carbon composite blank, designed to provide both beginners and more experienced casters alike with the ideal balance of power and flex for smooth casting. The Cedar Canyon Carbon Combo kit is perfect for anglers getting started and seeking an affordable, yet quality, setup. The versatile rod is paired with a modern large-arbor click-check reel, which comes fully rigged with backing, a high-quality weight-forward floating line, and a tapered leader. Additionally, the combo comes complete with a selection of flies and casting instructions to help beginners hit the water completely ready to fish.
The Cedar Canyon Select fiberglass rod is perfect for beginners, featuring a user-friendly moderate action that helps new anglers feel the rod load and learn casting strokes easily. Its durability makes it ideal for anglers who are tough on their gear. The Cedar Canyon Select Combo comes in a kit that includes everything you need to start fishing right away, making it the ideal outfit for enjoying your first fly fishing adventures on rivers, lakes, or streams. The easy-casting 3-piece performance fly rod is perfectly paired with a fully rigged reel that includes line and backing, along with a leader and a selection of flies.
CEDAR CANYON ELITE FLY ROD
- High performance 9ft, 4pc carbon
- Quality cork handle
- Aluminum reel seat
- Refined medium-fast action
SIZES: 5/6 wt (MSRP: $49.99) • 7/8 wt (MSRP: $54.99)
CEDAR CANYON ELITE FLY COMBO
- High performance 9ft, 4pc carbon fiber construction fly rod
- Quality cork handle
- Graphite Cedar Canyon disc drag fly reel
- Fully fitted 75ft WF floating fly line & backing
- Includes casting instructions and diagrams
SIZES: 5/6 wt (MSRP: $79.99) • 7/8 wt (MSRP: $84.99)
CEDAR CANYON CARBON FLY ROD
- Light & durable 8ft, 4pc carbon composite fly rod
- Comfortable and attractive EVA foam handle
- Lightweight graphite reel seat
- Stainless steel guides
- Medium-fast action
SIZES: 5/6 wt (MSRP: $29.99) • 7/8 wt (MSRP: $34.99)
CEDAR CANYON CARBON COMBO
- Light & durable 8ft, 4pc carbon composite fly rod
- Lightweight graphite Cedar Canyon click fly reel
- Fitted WF fly line & backing
- Supplied with fly selection & tapered leader
- Includes casting instructions and diagrams
SIZES: 5/6 wt (MSRP: $64.99) • 7/8 wt (MSRP: $69.99)
CEDAR CANYON SELECT FLY ROD
- Light & durable 8ft, 3pc fly rod
- Durable EVA foam handle
- Lightweight graphite reel seat
- Stainless steel guides
- User-friendly casting action
SIZE: 5/6 wt (MSRP: $24.99)
CEDAR CANYON SELECT COMBO
- Light & durable 8ft 3pc fly rod
- Lightweight graphite Cedar Canyon click reel
- Fitted WF fly line & backing
- Supplied with fly selection & tapered leader
- Includes casting instructions and diagrams
SIZE: 5/6 wt (MSRP: $54.99)
Available: September 2024
| COLUMBIA, S.C. (July 10, 2024) – For over 150 years, Hardy has remained the top brand for fly anglers who demand nothing but the best in fishing gear. Known for its unmatched craftsmanship and innovation, Hardy continues to set the standard for meticulously crafted fly gear with the introduction of the Hardy Averon. This reel, which is the core of the Hardy freshwater performance reel range, is an ultra-lightweight disc drag fly reel that delivers the quality and reliability that are the hallmarks of the Hardy brand. Available in half-frame and full-cage models, this new reel offers exceptional performance and versatility for freshwater anglers.The Hardy Averon reel replaces the Hardy Ultradisc fly reel with updated and improved features that set the standard for performance freshwater fly reels. The more durable frame is designed to carefully blend performance, balance, and fishability. This large arbor reel features an open, half-frame design on all models but two – allowing for weight reduction and easy spool changes when different line sizes are required. For specialty applications utilizing thin lines, a closed frame design can be found in the 5000 EN (Euro Nymphing) and 9000 size models where a full-cage is employed for ultra-long leaders, Euro Nymphing, and Spey fishing. The full cage Euro Nymph model features an interchangeable weight system that allows the angler the ability to fine-tune the rod’s in-hand balance. The 5000EN model also employs a larger arbor than the standard 5000 size – requiring less backing for thin lines and reducing line coils. The 5000EN and standard 5000 size spools are interchangeable and sold separately, allowing anglers to mix and match for their ideal setup. The Averon has a buttery smooth drag featuring a large and easy-to-adjust drag knob that provides definitive clicks between settings. The drag system is unregulated allowing for fine adjustments, yet the 2.5 turn knob provides quick adjustments. With very low startup inertia, this reel delivers incredible fish-stopping power at a weight that feels balanced in hand. The Hardy Averon comes in two colors – titanium with gold accents and black with gunmetal accents (varies by size). |
| HARDY AVERON KEY FEATURES Lightweight high-performance disc drag Open frame design (except 9000 & Euro models) Silky smooth, enclosed multi pad disc drag system 2.5 turn indexed drag for quick & precise drag adjustments Ultra-low start up inertia MODELS: HREAVER30TI • HREAVER50TI • HREAVER70TI • HREAVER90TI • HREAVER30BK • HREAVER50BK • HREAVER70BKMSRP: $395.00 – $450.00AVAILABLE: August 2024 HARDY EURO AVERON KEY FEATURES Super large arbor, narrow spool design Full cage frame Reduced frame tolerances to reduce line escape Supplied with 3-optional balance weights | 0.6oz • 1.2oz • 1.8oz Optimized for ‘in-hand’ balance MODEL: HRAVER50ENMSRP: $395.00AVAILABLE: August 2024 For more information about Hardy products, visit www.HardyFishing.com. |
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
Washington, D.C. — Today, the House Appropriations Committee voted on party lines to advance an Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act that would slash funding for federal land management agencies for Fiscal Year 2025, reducing funding levels for the second year in a row. As one of the nation’s leading grassroots advocacy groups aimed at conserving North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BHA) stands strongly in opposition. If enacted, this budget would have significant negative impacts for public lands and waters, and the hunters and anglers who rely on them.
“The increased funding cuts for the management of our public lands represents a devastating attack on the foundation of our hunting and fishing heritage, and the valuable fish and wildlife habitat that benefits all Americans,” said BHA President and CEO Patrick Berry. “The bill would gut agency funding, significantly weaken conservation efforts on millions of acres, reverse ground-breaking land management strategies, and undermine science-based management of sage-grouse. We strongly oppose this bill which clearly shows disdain for the public lands that provide opportunities for millions of hunters and anglers.”
In addition to reducing critical funding for the management of our natural resources, this legislation also includes numerous policy riders opposed by BHA that target conservation achievements implemented by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS), with the support of sportsmen and women, including:
- Prohibiting the implementation of the Public Lands Rule by the BLM which recognizes conservation as a legitimate use of public lands under their stewardship. This rule conserves intact habitat, restores degraded landscapes, and utilizes landscape health assessments for long-term management.
- Prohibiting the BLM and USFS from initiating administrative mineral withdrawals of public lands.
- Overturning protections for more than 200,000 acres of the Rainy River watershed that feeds into the Boundary Waters, in addition to reissuing Twin Metal’s mining leases upstream of the nation’s most visited wilderness area.
- Overturning protections for 13 million acres of designated Special Areas in the Western Arctic that provide habitat for the Western Arctic and Teshekpuk caribou herds.
- Giving the mining industry broad rights by deeming all mining claims valid on public lands, and guaranteeing a right to all mining activities including prospecting, exploration, and associated development.
- Targeting modernization of the 1872 Mining Law, a century and a half overdue, by preventing the implementation of policies outlined in a report by the Department of the Interior titled, “Recommendations to Improve Mining on Public Lands.” This would include widely bipartisan Good Samaritan legislation to facilitate the cleanup of abandoned mines.
- Attacking science-based wildlife management by prohibiting listing the greater sage-grouse under the Endangered Species Act, and preventing the completion of a Resource Management Plan undertaken by the BLM to conserve sage-grouse habitat.
Consider joining BHA to help ensure there’s a voice at the policy table in support of our shared public lands, waters and wildlife. Learn more, and take action, at backcountryhunters.org.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.
https://www.backcountryhunters.org
In this episode of The Venturing Angler Podcast, sponsored by Thomas & Thomas, we chat with Marcel Sijnesael of the Patagonian BaseCamp in Chile about fly fishing in Chile and what makes his lodge’s location unique.
To check out more from the Patagonian BaseCamp, please click here.
And to check out the podcast, please click below or download our podcast on iTunes, Soundcloud, or Spotify:
In this episode of The Venturing Angler Podcast, we chat with Marcel Sijnesael of the Patagonian BaseCamp in Chile about fly fishing in Chile and what makes his lodge’s location unique.
A new issue of The Mission is now available online. The July/August 2024 issue takes on striped bass in Boston, queenfish in Dubai, and much more.
To check out the new issue of The Mission, please click here.
Helicopter fly-ins, absolute wilderness fly fishing, and wild rainbow and brown trout! A new video from Todd Moen and Catch Magazine capture an incredible fly fishing experience in New Zealand.
From Eleven Angling:
“Spectacular scenery, gin clear water, and phenomenal fishing for wild trout — New Zealand is a fly fishing destination like none other.
At Cedar Lodge, an exciting heli-angling program offers anglers access to remote stretches of world-class water on New Zealand’s South Island. This fishing experience is now highlighted in a new video from Todd Moen and Catch Magazine.
Learn more about Cedar Lodge at the link below. https://elevenexperience.com/cedar-lo…“
To check out more from Eleven Angling, please click here.
From Keep Fish Wet:
Amherst, MA — July 1st, 2024 — As part of their annual No Fish Dry July campaign, Keep Fish Wet is adding new best practices about water temperature and trout.
Every year for the month of July, Keep Fish Wet encourages anglers to rethink their interactions with fish during hot summer months and challenges everyone to make a commitment to “do better”. Every angler can do their part, whether it is by not taking a single photo of fish for July, using best practices for each fish they catch, or by only targeting warm water species when water temperatures spike.
With many places across North America experiencing higher than average water temperatures, the way we handle fish during the hottest time of year is crucial to their well-being. As water temperatures rise, fish become physiologically stressed, increasing the time it takes for them to recover from capture and handling, and increasing the chance of mortality once released.
This year, Keep Fish Wet is also introducing new best practices about water temperature when fishing for trout. After doing a deep dive into the science on the impacts of water temperature and fishing on various trout species, Keep Fish Wet did not find anything to support the often touted idea that 68F should be the stopping point when fishing for trout. Instead, the science that combines water temperature and angling stress shows that anglers should start to be aware of what’s going on with trout at water temperatures lower than 68F…MUCH lower.
It turns out it’s not as simple as recommending a single “stop fishing here” temperature. There are nuances. So instead, Keep Fish Wet is coining the phrase “angling threshold” — the water temperature at which the chance of a fish dying due to the combined impacts of water temperature and angling goes from being low and steady to rising exponentially. For rainbow, steelhead, cutthroat, and brook trout the angling threshold is 61F. Keep Fish Wet believes this is the water temperature at which anglers need to start paying attention to how these species respond to fishing, and use their science-based Principles and Tips more diligently. Anglers may choose to stop fishing altogether when water temperatures go beyond the angling threshold.
Read their latest Finsights blog post to learn more about water temperature, trout, and angling thresholds. Follow along on social media as well as at keepfishwet.org to learn about how fish respond when the water gets warm, how you can tell if fish are stressed, and to see some beautiful fish-less photography.
Incredible beauty and phenomenal fishing. A video from Eleven Angling puts a spotlight on an impressive fly fishing destination.
From Eleven Angling:
“Martín Pescador Lodge is an Eleven Experience Patagonia fly fishing lodge like no other. If your idea of fly fishing in Patagonia involves unpressured water, wild trout, and remote properties that position you perfectly for limitless access, look no further.
Perfectly situated between a number of fisheries in the Río and Lago Yelcho, Río Futaleufú, Río and Lago Rosselot, Río Figueroa, Río Pico, and others that are too numerous to list, while jet boats, rafts, cater rafts, and hybrid power drifters deliver never-repeated days.
Martín Pescador Lodge was designed to up the ante on anyone’s idea of a great day on the water, with a view and a Pisco Sour to top it all off.”
To check out more from Eleven Angling, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The nation’s “voice for wild public lands, waters, and wildlife” – nonprofit advocacy group Backcountry Hunters & Anglers – applauded decisions announced today by the Bureau of Land Management that will ensure the conservation of valuable fish and wildlife habitat across myriad Alaskan landscapes, including the famed Brooks Range and previously protected lands.
The announcement culminated in the BLM’s Record of Decision denying a permit for the construction of a private 211-mile-long Ambler Mining Road. This decision follows strong advocacy from the Hunters & Anglers for the Brooks Range – a coalition which includes BHA along with organizations and businesses representing hunters and anglers who cherish the vast public lands and waters of the southern Brooks Range.
“While Alaska is a vast state with significant expanses of public lands, risky proposals like the Ambler Road cannot be justified,” said Mary Glaves, BHA’s Alaska chapter coordinator. “The Brooks Range is an iconic place for backcountry hunting and fishing experiences and has intrinsic value for just that reason. The Ambler Road simply poses too many risks and challenges for the landscape, economy, and local residents. We applaud the BLM for their decision to take no action and deny the Ambler Road permit, keeping this landscape intact,”
The Ambler Road would have: greatly compromised the 110-mile-long Kobuk River, part of the National Wild and Scenic River System and home to world-class sheefish fishing; irreversible impacts on the declining Western Arctic Caribou Herd, which provides subsistence hunting opportunities for the Alaskan community; and, affected opportunities for hunters who travel from around the world to pursue these caribou while infusing dollars into local economies.
However, the threat of the Ambler Road still looms over the Brooks Range, as earlier this month in a closed-door committee meeting Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK) succeeded in attaching an amendment to the FY25 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would reverse the BLM’s decision. A final version of the bill has yet to be advanced by the Senate. Should this amendment persist, it would be the first time in a decade that non-defense related, anti-conservation policy was included in the NDAA.
D-1 Lands & Future Development
During the same announcement, the BLM shared their Final Environmental Impact Statement evaluating the conservation status of 28 million acres of Alaskan public lands known as “D-1” lands. These public lands have been withdrawn from mineral and energy development since the passage of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act in 1971; however, in January of 2021, the outgoing Trump administration began the process of revoking those withdrawals. The “no action” alternative recently selected by the BLM would keep these lands withdrawn from development, maintaining the wild, expansive backcountry that is home to iconic wildlife species, and associated world-class hunting and fishing experiences.
A map of Alaska’s D-1 Lands from the BLM
“Alaska’s D-1 lands represent some of the last intact ecosystems in North America,” said Cody Strathe, BHA Alaska chapter board member. “Continued conservation of these places simultaneously protects vital fish and wildlife habitat, Alaska’s growing recreation economy, which includes hunting and fishing, as well as rural subsistence lifestyle use. We thank the BLM for selecting a preferred alternative which ensures future generations can enjoy these wild public lands.”
Were the conservation status of these D-1 lands to be revoked, more than 10% of all lands managed by the BLM could be opened to new industrial activity. The BLM’s decision means more than just a building permit has been denied – it means the continued conservation of these landscapes ensures intact pathways for migratory species like anadromous fish, caribou, and waterfowl, and the future enjoyment of those who rely on such species as a part of their way of life.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.
It’s hard to believe it’s been about 15 years since the filming of RISE from Confluence Films. And now this outstanding destination-focused film is now available to watch online.
From Yellow Dog:
“In 2009, riding on the success of DRIFT, director/cinematographer Chris Patterson of Warren Miller Entertainment and executive producer Jim Klug once again set out in search of new locations and the totally unique stories, characters and species that epitomize the spirit and soul of fly fishing.
This fly fishing film is a collection of individual stories shot around the world; stories that together truly reflect the attraction that fly fishing has for all of us. Shot on location in the Florida Keys, Argentina, Idaho, New Orleans, Venezuela, and Alaska. RISE is a stunning feature-length film, photographed entirely on 16mm film and mastered in HD.”
To check out more from Yellow Dog, please click here.
In shop photos for Abel Reel and Scott RodsFor Immediate Release – Park City, UT – Leader in premium hunting and sportsman clothing and gear, Ball and Buck proudly announces the limited edition Abel Fly Reel and Scott Centric fly rod collaborations.
The Abel X Ball and Buck Special Edition Rove Deep Green and Rove Slate Grey Fly Reel, is crafted for the extreme angler. The Rove reel is precision-engineered by Abel, and boasts a caged frame, and large quick-change arbor spool, with aerospace-grade durability to withstand the toughest battles. The Ball and Buck collaboration design offers the option of Deep Green or Slate Grey stealth camo engraving with blaze-orange accents, reflecting an adventurous spirit. Featuring double pawn engagement for universal fit and the reliable rove system with a cork drag, this proven design enhances the fishing experience in a package that will last a lifetime.
FEATURES
- Ball and Buck original stealth camo engraving
- Caged frame to ensure line control
- High capacity, quick change, large arbor spool
- Structurally integral machining design
- Double pawl engagement on all sizes
- User convertible drag system
- Made in USA
- 6.9oz reel weight
- Line capacity: 145 Yds with 4wt line | 130 Yds with 5wt line | 115 Yds with 6wt line
“A few years back we decided we needed to develop the perfect all-around freshwater fishing rod/reel combo for those looking for the best. With that in mind, we approached the two brands that represent the best in the business–Abel Reels and Scott Rods. Working with Jim, an absolute expert in the rod building area, we developed the first-ever collaboration to bear the Scott Fly Rods Name. Just down the road in Montrose Colorado we partnered with Jeff at Abel Reels who hand-picked a reel that was perfectly suited to the 5wt Centric rod. What we’ve ended up with is the perfect rod/reel combination that blends performance and versatility. Simply put, there isn’t a freshwater river in America where you can’t crush trout on this setup.” Said Mark Bolman – CEO Ball And Buck
“Our friendship and collaborative partnership with Ball and Buck goes back over 10 years together. Our shared passion with Mark and his team offering high quality, American-made unique products originally brought us together back then, and continues to fuel our creative collaborative projects to this day. During that time we’ve introduced several Abel products with an always cool Ball and Buck custom aspect to each of them along with the field dependability you’d expect from each of our brands. It’s been a bunch of fun recently working with Mark again to develop the Stealth Camo edition reel as another addition to our storied portfolio, and this time incorporating another outstanding brand at Scott Fly Rods.” Said Jeff Paterson – Director of Sales Abel Reels
Reel MSRP: $1,298
Special Edition Scott Fly Rod
The Scott x Ball and Buck Special Edition Centric Fly Rod is a testament to craftsmanship and adventure. The limited-edition collaboration is handmade in Colorado by Scott Fly Rods and boasts a Gunstock walnut reel seat, industry leading carbon fiber technology delivering superior casting accuracy. The Centric is a nine-foot, five-weight, four-piece rod, featuring Titanium guides from Snake Brands, and a multi modulus fiber lay up with a fiber-enhanced resin giving 20% more strength and increased casting efficiency.
FEATURES
- Signature Blaze Orange and Dark Green Wraps
- Gunstock Walnut Reel Seat
- Special edition green and blaze orange rod tube with brass Arthur engraved cap
- Hand painted collaboration insignia
- Ball and Buck original camo rod sleeve
- Mil-spec III black anodized Reel Seat
- American made Titanium guides from Snake Brand®
- Multi modulus carbon fiber lay up with natural power fiber finish
Rod MSRP: $1,398
Available at ballandbuck.com
About Ball and Buck
Ball and Buck is an outdoor apparel & accessories brand founded by Mark Bollman IV to preserve the sporting lifestyle that has been gifted to four generations of his family. Our products are built upon generations of sporting experience and designed to be worn, lived in, and pushed to their limits. Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram or visit our website to learn more.
About Scott Fly Rod Company:Since its founding in 1974, the Scott Fly Rod Company has been dedicated to handcrafting the ultimate fishing tools from start to finish. Based in Montrose, Colorado, Scott has a history of innovation, dedication to performance, and a commitment to protecting the environment while also supporting local fly shops. For more information about Scott Rods, please visit their website and follow Scott on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
About Mayfly OutdoorsMayfly Outdoors is a Certified B Corporation headquartered in Montrose, Colorado, and its mission is to inspire adventure. Their brands include Abel Reels, Ross Reels, Airflo Fly Lines, and Dyna-King Vises. Visit their website: http://www.mayflyoutdoors.com or for more information about Abel Reels, please visit abelreels.com.
Anglers fly fish for bass in Alabama in “A Slam That Saves” — a film from Dorsal Outdoors.
From Dorsal Outdoors:
“Here in Alabama, we have 4 species of bass that are found nowhere else on Earth. Each bass is not only genetically distinct, but specialized to the unique waterways they inhabit. At the same time, each bass faces a conservation threat. Matt Lewis and MB Meeks embark on an adventure to catch all four in one day– the redeye bass slam — while also championing the conservation of the species along the way.”
To check out more from Dorsal Outdoors, please click here.
A new series from WildFly Productions follows anglers in their pursuit of Bahamas bonefish. This is Chapter 3.
From WildFly Productions:
“Welcome to ‘Birthday Bones,’ our 4-part original series. To celebrate Scottie’s 26th birthday, the boys head south to escape winter in the west and chase bonefish on the flats of the Bahamas. The mission: Find bonefish self-guided in the bonefish capital of the world.”
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
A new film follows anglers in their pursuit of redfish in the winter.
From Historic Coast Outfitters:
“We are stoked to release our new short film ‘Dead Low’ which showcases the winter time lowtide sight fishing opportunities that can happen for our client’s here along the historic coast. In this short film you’ll see large schools of redfish at dead low tide backing, tailing and busting shrimp along the banks along with some mid tide top water eats. This project was a blast to have our very own Nory landing one on foot in a creek to tight to get the skiff into! It was also a pleasure having our friends Jesse & Koji not only capturing the footage but also showcasing their skills on the bow as well! Over the last year it has been awesome trying to do our part in the community and seeing the positive feedback and involvement of people who care about our estuary. To protect what we have it takes everyone to work together! We hope that you enjoy this film and thanks again to everyone who likes & shares our content, comes to our events and refers us as local guides to their loved ones and friends!”
To check out more from Historic Coast Outfitters, please click here.
A destination-focused new digital issue of In the Loop magazine is now available online. From Farquhar Atoll flats fishing to taking on taimen in Siberia, this new issue is loaded with content and outstanding photos.
To check out the new issue of In the Loop, please click here.
From Trout Unlimited:
Sacramento—The California Salmon and Steelhead Coalition, a partnership comprised of California Trout, The Nature Conservancy, and Trout Unlimited, is calling on Governor Newsom to support Assembly Bill 1272 (Wood). This bill will ensure a climate-resilient future for California’s coastal watersheds, which support vibrant communities, important ecosystems, and iconic species.
The bill, authored by Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg), directs the State Water Resources Control Board and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to develop guidelines for water use in certain coastal watersheds during times of water shortage. These principles and guidelines will allow for the development of locally generated watershed-level plans to protect public trust uses, public health and safety, and the human right to water. The plans will help water users anticipate how their businesses and communities will be impacted by drought, providing an incentive to invest in solutions that increase preparedness. AB 1272 passed both houses of the legislature in 2023 without opposition and awaits being sent to the Governor for his signature.
The bill was developed in partnership with the Karuk Tribe and the Yurok Tribe, and is supported by the Karuk and Yurok Tribes, along with a broad array of environmental organizations and salmon advocates. The bill focuses on watersheds that are critical for recovering culturally and economically important salmon populations across the North and Central Coast of California.
Since AB 1272 was passed by the Senate and the Assembly, Governor Newsom released his Salmon Strategy for a Hotter, Dryer Future , which identifies several actions the bill would support. The Salmon Strategy calls for the establishment of standards for instream flows and water rights administration, locally-driven solutions to improve fisheries and water supply reliability, and cooperative water-saving practices, all of which are at the heart of AB 1272. The bill will facilitate the implementation of key actions in the Salmon Strategy that will help California’s coastal communities and the salmon populations they rely on.
“Drought is not an episodic event and has not been for decades,” said Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg), author of AB 1272. “The periods of drought are longer, more frequent and severe and seriously threaten the long-term health of rivers and streams and the wildlife that inhabit them as well as the water needs of our communities. As with many of the serious effects of climate change, we can’t keep responding on an ad hoc basis to every drought. Now is the time for California to prepare for drought and better manage our coastal watersheds to assure that the environment and wildlife are protected and that our communities have the water they need when they need it.”
Redgie Collins, Legal and Policy Director for California Trout emphasized the importance of proactive measures, saying, “AB 1272 provides a critical framework for addressing the water scarcity challenges exacerbated by climate change. By planning at the watershed level, we can incentivize and implement tailored drought response measures that protect both our ecosystems and water resources, ensuring sustainability for future generations.”
Matt Clifford, California Director for Trout Unlimited, added, “This bill is a significant step towards safeguarding our native fish species and the overall health of our coastal watersheds. AB 1272 will help us develop comprehensive strategies that respond to immediate drought conditions and enhance long-term resilience and water reliability.”
Liz Forsburg Pardi, Director of External Affairs and Policy for The Nature Conservancy highlighted the bill’s environmental impact, stating, “AB 1272 is crucial for the protection and recovery of our coastal watersheds. This bill will enhance the climate resilience of California’s coastal watersheds and ensure they can balance the needs of people and nature.”
Every cast counts when fishing the gin clear trout waters of New Zealand. This is the focus of a new video from Todd Koen and Catch Magazine all captured out of Eleven’s Cedar Lodge.
From Catch Magazine:
“This latest fly fishing film from New Zealand was shot at Cedar Lodge on the South Island. Fly fishing New Zealand for big rainbow trout and brown trout on the crystal clear backcountry rivers during the southern hemisphere’s fall season can be very challenging with low crystal clear water and very large trout but a the same time can be the most beautiful time to visit.
Hunting big rainbow and brown trout while fly fishing these rivers of the South Island is a bucket list trip. Together with Eleven Angling’s Brian O’Keefe, Todd explores the South Island Alps region and the Makarora River for some epic trout fishing.
This film takes you via helicopter thru some of the most incredible landscapes on the planet. O’Keefe and New Zealand guide Paul Wright use hunting-style walk/wade techniques to spot and stalk feeding trout with dry fly and nymph tactics.
In a narrative only O’Keefe can provide, “New Zealand – Fall in the Southern Alps” illustrates the very best of what New Zealand’s South Island offers.
For information about experiencing this trip for yourself, click the link for more information. https://elevenexperience.com/eleven-angling“
To check out more from Catch Magazine, please click here.
In “The Wild Wild East,” anglers fish the Adirondack wilderness.
From Very Good Fly Fishing:
“The Wild Wild East is a 45 Min adventure film that takes place in the Adirondack wilderness. Last fall 2023 Addison and I set out to make an epic adventure film comparing streams of the East and West. Utilizing tactics I’ve learned from my travels out west to try and combine the best parts of both. We partnered with some of our favorite companies to bring you an adventure film we are truly proud of.”
To check out more from Very Good Fly Fishing, please click here.
From Patagonia:
Bears Ears National Monument, Utah, June 3, 2024 – For the first time in U.S. history, a coalition of five Tribal Nations has collaborated with federal agencies to create a land management plan for their ancestral homelands on public lands. Patagonia supports the Tribes’ vision for Bears Ears and is helping the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition (BEITC) gain support for Alternative E of the recently released draft Resource Management Plan (RMP) to heal and protect our home planet.
“As the first national monument proposed by a coalition of Tribal Nations, the designation of Bears Ears National Monument is unprecedented, and the plan for managing it must be too,” said Patagonia CEO Ryan Gellert.
Alternative E prioritizes responsible recreation and access, incorporating Traditional Indigenous Knowledge (TIK) into land management practices for the Bears Ears National Monument (BENM). It is also the preferred alternative for the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service, aligning most closely with the presidential proclamations that established and restored the BENM.
“Tribal lands and resources extend far beyond our current reservation boundaries,” said Christopher Tabbee, Vice Chairman of the Ute Indian Tribe Business Committee and Co-Chair of the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition. “We face increasing drought, growing wildfires, and a quickly changing climate. It is long past time for the Federal government and all people to look to Tribal knowledge and experience to sustainably manage these lands.”
“As allies to Tribal Nations, it’s vital that Patagonia and the conservation and recreation communities support the Tribes’ vision for Bears Ears because their recommendations will ensure this sacred cultural landscape is protected,” Gellert said. “That’s why we’re supporting Alternative E as the preferred version of the Draft Resource Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement. Alternative E will balance public access and recreation with the preservation of cultural resources. We thank the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition for their leadership, and we thank the Biden administration for being receptive to, and respectful of, Traditional Indigenous Knowledge.”
This partnership will support Alternative E, which:
- Gives local Tribal communities a voice in managing their ancestral lands.
- Raises awareness of Indigenous stewardship principles.
- Promotes co-stewardship of the BENM and other culturally significant areas.
- Incorporates TIK and closely follows Tribal recommendations.
- Encourages responsible recreation while protecting cultural and natural resources within the Monument.
“Bears Ears holds deep spiritual and cultural significance, and is rich in ancestral history. The entire landscape contains countless cultural belongings that are vital to preserving our life-ways as Hopi people,” said Craig Andrews, Vice Chairman of the Hopi Tribe and Co-Chair Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition. “Protecting Bears Ears ensures that future generations can continue to connect with our history and cultural identity. Alternative E represents a significant step forward in recognizing the value of Traditional Indigenous Knowledge in public lands management. We are grateful for Patagonia’s support in this crucial endeavor.”
The BEITC works to protect and promote the sacred, spiritual, historical, natural, scientific, and cultural resources within the Bears Ears landscape, utilizing TIK to inform its work. The BEITC is led by Tribal leaders from the Navajo Nation, Ute Indian Tribe, Zuni Tribe, Hopi Tribe, and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, and assisted the five nations in proposing and establishing the BENM. The BEITC supports the Bears Ears Commission by providing resources, expertise, and funding to develop and implement management plans for the Monument.
For nearly a decade, Patagonia has partnered with Tribal nations, environmental leaders, and the outdoor community to protect Bears Ears as a national monument. Committed to protecting our planet, Patagonia works with frontline communities to restore lands, air, and waters. The company has spent the last 50 years supporting grassroots activists working to find solutions to the environmental crisis and aims to create equity for marginalized peoples and acknowledge painful histories.
Until the close of the public comment period on June 11, 2024, Patagonia will engage their audience to support Alternative E of the draft RMP for Bears Ears. The campaign aims to gather public support and encourage comments favoring the inclusion of Alternative E in the final monument management plan.
The BEITC and Patagonia are collaborating to protect this cherished landscape, support Tribal co-stewardship, and promote sustainable conservation practices in Bears Ears.
Vice Chairman Tabbee concluded, “Our plan for Bears Ears promotes sustainability and cultural values and is a model for survival of all.”
Visit Patagonia’s “Act Now” page for more information.
About the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition (BEITC): The BEITC is a fiscally sponsored project of the Resources Legacy Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which relies on charitable giving to support the Bears Ears Commission in fulfilling its collaborative management responsibilities. Follow the Coalition on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.
About Patagonia: We’re in business to save our home planet. Founded by Yvon Chouinard in 1973, Patagonia is an outdoor apparel company based in Ventura, California. As a certified B Corporation and a founding member of 1% for the Planet, the company is recognized internationally for its product quality and environmental activism, as well as its contributions of more than $230 million to environmental organizations. Its unique ownership structure reflects that Earth is its only shareholder: Profits not reinvested back into the business are paid as dividends to protect the planet.
From Far Bank and Fly Water Travel:
ASHLAND, OR, June 4, 2024 – Fly Water Travel, an agency catering exclusively to global destination fly fishing and adventure travel has announced the launch of Sage Experiences in conjunction with select lodge partners to provide an elevated fishing experience and access to premium gear for use onsite.
Fly Water Travel has facilitated a collaborative program between renowned destination partners and its sister companies under the Far Bank banner to provide traveling fly anglers on-location access to premium Sage and RIO gear through select partner lodges carrying the Sage Experiences Outfitter designation. The program will launch this June with elite partners in Alaska, the Bahamas, Argentina, and Chile.
Destinations bearing the distinctive Sage Experiences Outfitter authorized stamp are esteemed partners of Fly Water Travel with established reputations for delivering incredible experiences both on the water and in the lodge. Each Sage Experiences Outfitter carefully curates and meticulously maintains collections of Sage and RIO gear perfectly matched to their specific fishery and available to guests for the duration of their stay at no additional cost. By investing in Sage and RIO products exclusively for on-location use by their guests, these partners further solidify their commitment to creating uniquely remarkable angling opportunities.
“Sage Experiences fulfills a Fly Water Travel vision to bring together the world’s most incredible fly fishing destinations and the finest gear in the industry,” said Ken Morrish, Fly Water Travel Co-founder and Director of Travel Sales. “When anglers see the Sage Experiences Outfitter authorized stamp, they can be sure they’ll arrive at these select destinations with access to the highest performance Sage rods and reels, alongside premium RIO lines all perfectly tailored to that destination and the various angling experiences they will find there.”
Fly Water Travel has been at the forefront of the fly fishing travel space for the past 25 years and is built upon a foundation of creating meaningful and lasting relationships with both guests and lodge partners alike. Its intimate relationships with lodges and their operations, fisheries, seasons, cultures and cuisine, combined with a comprehensive, detail-oriented travel planning system creates the perfect pathway for exploring the world with fly rod in hand.
“Offering premium on-location tackle elevates the guest experience and helps traveling anglers better traverse the uncertainty associated with gear preparation and transport,” said Brian Gies, Fly Water Travel co-founder and Director of Travel Operations. “For international anglers that prefer to travel with their own gear, Sage Experience Outfitters offer good peace of mind against lost luggage or on-the-water damage at faraway locations, or to simply enjoy the opportunity to test drive some of the latest and greatest fly angling tools on the market.”
“Anglers commonly use travel to legitimize walking into their local shop to purchase new gear, but it doesn’t always happen on the front end of a trip,” said Kris Klein, Far Bank CEO. “Just as often, anglers return from destinations energized to seek out the gear they know they’ll need to succeed in the future. By giving traveling anglers the opportunity to “test the best” while on location at these select lodges, they walk away with a deeper appreciation for how Sage and RIO products perform when the stakes are the highest, as well as a better understanding of exactly what to ask for when they return to their local fly shops ready to gear up for that next trip.”
Current Sage Experiences Outfitter partners as of our June 2024 program launch include:
Bahamas – Andros South Lodge, Deneki
Alaska – Rapids Camp Lodge, Deneki
Chile – Coyhaique River Lodge
Argentina – Estancia Rio Pelke
For further information and to see a list of destinations currently approved as a Sage Experiences Outfitter, please visit the following link: https://farbank.com/pages/fly-water-travel-sage-experiences
About Fly Water Travel
Fly Water Travel is a team of fly fishing and travel experts dedicated to arranging trips to the world’s finest fishing destinations. From its inception, Fly Water has been an inspired endeavor, forged by a special friendship and a shared sense of adventure and a love of wild fisheries. We are experienced anglers and passionate travelers who are faithfully committed to making sure our guests have the best angling experience possible.
About Far Bank
Far Bank is a family of fly fishing brands that includes Sage, RIO Products, Redington, and Fly Water Travel. Established as a holding company in 2005 after Redington and RIO joined Sage, Far Bank’s brands offer products and services for every type of angler from first timers exploring the sport to globe-trotting, performance-driven individuals, and professionals. The company is headquartered in the Day Road manufacturing facility on Bainbridge Island where Sage rods have been hand-built since 1980. Far Bank is wholly owned by the Joshua Green Corporation, an investment firm based in Seattle, Wash.
A Himalayan fly fishing adventure is the focus of a new video from Yellow Dog.
From Yellow Dog:
“One of the most expeditious and exploratory Yellow Dog trips to date, the team embarks to the Himalayas in pursuit of perhaps the most elusive freshwater fly fishing species on earth: the Golden Mahseer.
Yellow Dog Founder Jim Klug, angling legend Jeff Currier, and renowned videographer Chris Patterson take us along this adventure through the Himalayan backcountry with a full crew to navigate the expansive and at times treacherous waters of Bhutan. They are joined by the founder of Himalayan Flyfishing Adventures Bryant Dunn, current IGFA golden mahseer record holder Bobby Satpal, and highly experienced mahseer guide Jigme Tsuendrup. They navigate class-5 rapids, take in the Bhutanese culture, and fish hard for both golden and chocolate mahseer.”
To check out more from Yellow Dog, please click here.
Iceland offers world class fly fishing for brown trout and Atlantic salmon. Despite the remote nature of these waters, the Atlantic salmon face serious threats. In this episode, Elvar Örn Fridriksson from the North Atlantic Salmon Fund discusses threats to salmon in Iceland.
To check out more from the North Atlantic Salmon Fund, please click here.
And to check out the podcast, please click below or download our podcast on iTunes, Soundcloud, or Spotify:
Iceland offers world class fly fishing for brown trout and Atlantic salmon. Despite the remote nature of these waters, the Atlantic salmon face serious threats. In this episode, Elvar Örn Fridriksson from the North Atlantic Salmon Fund discusses threats to salmon in Iceland.
Stu Apte is a true pioneer of fly fishing for tarpon in Florida. In an old episode of Sportsman’s Journal now live online, Andy Mill, Tim Hoover, and Stu Apte take on tarpon in the Keys.
From Mill House:
“In this episode, Capt. Tim Hoover and I were joined by legendary guide and angler, Stu Apte for a day of tarpon fishing in the Florida Keys.
DISCLAIMER: These shows were shot in the 90’s and display some improper fish handling techniques that are very frowned upon today. I wish I knew back then what I know now! Also, some of the shows have static and bad quality parts and pieces. It is what it is!”
To check out more from Mill House, please click here.
From St. Croix:
PARK FALLS, Wis. (May 30, 2024) – If you spend enough time chasing hatches on technical trout fisheries where 5X is maximum, 6X is the norm, and 7X lives in your pack because some days that’s the difference between looks and eats, you begin to realize the deck is stacked. Persnickety fish eating micro-morsels in the film have their inherent challenges, but add in complex currents, leader-defeating winds, and impossible hook sets at distance, and having the right tool for the job becomes mission critical.
“After talking with a bunch of dedicated trout guides about the challenges of dry fly fishing with clients, a common issue emerged,” says St. Croix Fly Brand Manager, Tom Larimer. “What we heard from the Deschutes to the Delaware, is that traditional deep-flexing dry-fly rods are fine for parking lots and calm days, but when the wind ramps up and you’re trying to get a long leader to turn over, they fall short. These conversations led to a unique action specifically tuned for technical trout fishing.”
INTRODUCING TECHNICA
The new TECHNICA Series answers the call of PhD-level trout fishing. Its responsive, moderate action paired with an advanced carbon fiber matrix and exclusive MITO® Graphene technology delivers exceptional line speed, endless loop stability, and absolute accuracy.
“The best way to describe TECHNICA’s action is balanced,” says Larimer. Simply put, a softer lower-end and mid-section stores energy and produces a smooth-loading, soulful in-hand feel while helping the caster make efficient mends and protect light tippets and small flies. Higher up on the second and tip sections, the taper maintains the perfect amount of stiffness for picking up long lengths of line when recasting, sniper hook sets on long, downstream dry fly feeds, and fast tip recovery for turning over long leaders in the wind.”
But there’s a deeper layer to the story of TECHNICA’s action: Functionalized MITO Graphene.
“We learned a lot about the rod-performance attributes of MITO Graphene with the three-year development of EVOS, released last year,” Larimer says. “So, when we began the job of designing TECHNICA, we knew we could bend the rules of traditional moderate-action design.”
When viewed on a deflection board, TECHNICA appears to be a very soft rod. But MITO Graphene greatly impacts how the rod casts. “The addition of functionalized graphene to our established SCVI, SCIV, and SCII carbon fiber matrix increases rod recovery by 20%,” Larimer says. “The benefit is an incredibly stable loop with maximum line speed, while the overall result is a blank that possesses all the feel, finesse, and tippet protection of a moderate-flexing rod, with the speed and power of a medium-fast action.”
A TECHNICAL LIGHT-LINE PACKAGE
Outside of refined blank performance, TECHNICA incorporates numerous design aspects inspired by the environment and demands of technical trout fishing.
PAINTED FOR PRESENTATION: Baetis Back Green matte paint reduces rod glare and ensures a stealthy approach to wary trout.
LIGHT + DURABLE GUIDE TRAIN: Single-foot RECOIL guides paired with CERECOIL stripper guides are ultra-light and durable, which is ideal for sliding in and out of rod vaults or boat storage.
INTUITIVE GRIP DESIGN: With accuracy being critical for success in the dry-fly game, the snub-nose grip promotes a forward-hand position, helping the angler cast with increased precision.
TECHNOLOGY MEETS SOUL: While TECHNICA may be the most technologically advanced dry-fly rod on the market, the rod’s aesthetics speak to the slow, methodical approach of chasing hatches on technical trout water. The chassis is packed with new-school tech, but we couldn’t resist giving TECHNICA some old-school appointments of class.
TECHNICA TECHNOLOGY SUITE
- Advanced materials matrix consisting of ultra-high-modulus/high-strain SCVI carbon, high-modulus SCIV carbon, and premium-quality SCII carbon
- Mito Graphene unlocks the power of hybrid polymer materials and delivers radical hoop strength, optimized loop stability, and absolute accuracy
- Integrated Poly Curve (IPC) mandrel tooling provides improved energy transfer, increased strength, and mega-efficient rod recovery
- Advanced Reinforcing Technology (ART) adds a magnitude of 10X strength with virtually no increase in blank diameter or weight
- Fortified Resin System (FRS) boosts blank strength by 33% over standard resins and curing methods
- Reinforced Slim Profile Ferrule (SPF) design adds herculean strength with minimal added weight
TECHNICA FEATURES
- RECOIL single-foot guides
- CERECOIL stripper guides
- Hook keeper
- Snub-nose flor-grade cork handle
- Uplocking, machined-aluminum reel seat with tiger maple insert
- Aluminum rod tube with rod sock
- 15-year transferable warranty
- Designed and precision crafted in Park Falls, WI
TECHNICA MODELS
- TE590-4 / 5-weight, 9’0”, 4-piece, moderate action / MSRP: $975
- TE586-4 / 5-weight, 8’6”, 4-piece, moderate action / MSRP: $975
- TE489-4 / 4-weight, 8’9”, 4-piece, moderate action / MSRP: $975
- TE480-4 / 4-weight, 8’0”, 4-piece, moderate action / MSRP: $975
- TE389-4 / 3-weight, 8’9”, 4-piece, moderate action / MSRP: $975
- TE379-4 / 3-weight, 7’9”, 4-piece, moderate action / MSRP: $975
Designed and precision crafted in Park Falls Wisconsin, USA with levels of pride and passion that match your own, St. Croix TECHNICA Series rods are conceived and delivered to give anglers the upper hand in the trickiest of trout-fishing situations.
New TECHNICA Series fly rods will be available to anglers at St. Croix Fly Pro Shops and online at stcroixfly.com beginning May 31.
Members of the angling trade and media can see and cast TECHNICA at ICAST 2024.
Interested in becoming a St. Croix Fly dealer? Email dealersupport@stcroixrods.com or see us in Booth #2223 at ICAST 2024.
ABOUT ST. CROIX FLY
At the core of our brand ethos lives a simple yet fierce conviction; we exist to create dynamic fishing tools that intuitively help you evolve as a caster and angler. Our focused philosophy continually questions conventional wisdom, inspires innovation, and drives our persistent pursuit of fly rod perfection. When you own a St. Croix, it’s more than just a rod; it’s a promise. It’s 75 years of hard-earned knowledge aimed at designing and building the Best Rods on Earth, so you can be at your best in your own persistent pursuit. Join our journey at stcroixfly.com.
From Bonefish & Tarpon Trust:
Miami, FL – Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) scientists made significant progress during the 2023-24 bonefish spawning season in documenting a suspected pre-spawning aggregation (PSA) site near Key West, FL. BTT’s research in the Lower Florida Keys builds on its previous work in the Upper Keys, where BTT documented a bonefish PSA in 2023. The discovery was the first of its kind in Florida waters and a hopeful sign of a continued recovery for the species after a decades-long decline.
“Finding these nearshore areas where bonefish school by the thousands before migrating offshore to spawn in deep water is essential for their conservation,” said Jim McDuffie, BTT President and CEO. “As our science team continues to identify these sites, we will work with our state and federal partners to ensure that they are protected, ensuring a healthy future for one of Florida’s most iconic fish species.”
Over the course of the 2023-2024 bonefish spawning season, which spans from October to April, BTT Florida Keys Initiative Director Dr. Ross Boucek and his team tagged 44 bonefish with acoustic transmitters from the Marquesas to Sawyer Key with the help of Florida Keys fishing guides. BTT scientists also deployed 37 acoustic receivers on the reef tract, which allow them to monitor and record bonefish spawning movements.
“We documented seven spawning events during the 2023-2024 spawning season,” said Dr. Boucek. “Four bonefish tagged with archival depth measuring tags spawned during these events; three of the four fish recorded maximum depths of 332 feet, 310 feet, 302 feet. The fourth fish recorded a maximum depth of 180 feet on its first possible spawning or false spawning attempt. The recorded spawning depth of approximately 300 feet is consistent between the Upper Key spawning site and the suspected spawning site near Key West, and with recorded spawning events in The Bahamas.”
From its previous work in Florida and The Bahamas, BTT knows how bonefish reproduce. During full and new moon cycles from fall through early spring, bonefish migrate 70 miles or more from their home ranges to nearshore PSA sites, where they prepare to spawn by porpoising at the surface and gulping air to fill their swim bladders. At night, they swim offshore and dive hundreds of feet before surging back up to the surface. It is believed that the sudden change in pressure as they ascend makes their swim bladders expand, causing them to release their eggs and sperm. After fertilization takes place, the eggs hatch in about 24 hours, and the larvae drift in ocean currents for between 41 and 71 days before settling in shallow sand- or mud-bottom bays, where they develop into juvenile bonefish.
Meanwhile, in the Upper Keys, BTT continues to collaborate with state and federal partners to ensure that the first documented bonefish PSA is adequately protected. To this end, BTT is working to provide higher resolution spatial information of the PSA in Biscayne National Park to inform the possible expansion of a Marine Protected Area to include the spawning area.
“BTT received an infrastructure loan of $80,000 dollars to provide tracking equipment to build a fine-scale tracking array at the aggregation site,” said Dr. Boucek. “The goal is to further document the areas used by the spawning bonefish and whether they preferentially use living coral habitats.”
In Biscayne Bay, Dr. Boucek and his team deployed an array of receivers in the fall of 2023 and tagged seven bonefish. They also continue to actively track the 45 bonefish previously tagged in the area.
“Our long-term goals are to conserve the reproductive cycle of our growing bonefish in the Florida Keys,” said Dr. Boucek. “We still need to know where spawning occurs across the Keys, what threats like habitat loss those spawning fish might face, where their larvae go, and the habitats the juveniles need to ensure that our new population of bonefish can reach their full potential.”
About Bonefish & Tarpon Trust
Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s mission is to conserve bonefish, tarpon and permit—the species, their habitats and the larger fisheries they comprise. BTT pursues this mission across the southeastern US, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea through science-based conservation, education and advocacy.
Tim Romano and Andrew Steketee of Flylab have spent decades working in the fly fishing industry and traveling to exciting fly fishing destinations. In this episode, we chat about their experiences and Flylab.
To check out more from Flylab, please click here.
Chile offers some of the best trout fishing in the world, and a new video from Eleven Experience shows how spectacular this destination can be.
From Eleven Experience:
“Always one more cast. Brian O’Keefe tells us why he loves chasing wild brown and rainbow trout in Patagonia. Huge mountains and wild rivers, combined with friendly people and unique culture make Rio Palena Lodge his favorite South American angling basecamp.”
To check out more from Eleven Experience, please click here.
Sun’s out, hoodies out! A new video from Patagonia highlights their Tropic Comfort Natural Hoody.
From Patagonia:
“Delivering dependable 40+ UPF sun protection and ingenious on-the-water functionality, the Tropic Comfort Natural Hoody features our modal fabric. Engineered from renewable, natural beech tree pulp, modal is supersoft and breathable, yet durable for the most demanding hot-weather conditions. Made in a Fair Trade Certified factory.”
To see more, please click here.
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Disclosure: Patagonia is in a professional relationship with the The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
Tim Romano and Andrew Steketee of Flylab have spent decades working in the fly fishing industry and traveling to exciting fly fishing destinations. In this episode, we chat about their experiences and Flylab.
To check out more from Flylab, please click here.
And to check out the podcast, please click below or download our podcast on iTunes, Soundcloud, or Spotify:
Tim Romano and Andrew Steketee of Flylab have spent decades working in the fly fishing industry and traveling to exciting fly fishing destinations. In this episode, we chat about their experiences and Flylab.
From the American Museum of Fly Fishing:
The American Museum of Fly Fishing is pleased to announce that Guido Rahr is the recipient of the 2024 Izaak Walton Award. An event honoring his accomplishments will take place in San Francisco on November 14.
A globally recognized pioneer in the conservation movement, Guido Rahr is the president and CEO of the Wild Salmon Center. Under his leadership, the organization has developed scientific research, habitat protection, and fisheries improvement projects in dozens of rivers across Japan, the Russian Far East, Alaska, British Columbia, and the U.S. Pacific Northwest. His efforts with the Wild Salmon Center have raised more than $200 million in grants; established fourteen new conservation organizations; and protected 7.7 million acres of habitat, including public lands management designations and ten new large-scale habitat reserves on key salmon rivers across the Pacific Rim.
Mr. Rahr developed the stronghold strategy: a strategy of protecting ecosystems before they become endangered. Targeting the most pristine and productive river systems in each region of the Pacific Rim and taking the long view toward conservation, the Wild Salmon Center and local partners have defeated hydroelectric dams, industrial mining, road building, overfishing, clear-cut logging, water withdrawals, and other threats to stronghold watersheds.
He developed a love of nature from an early age, becoming an expert in the study of reptiles and amphibians. He comes from a family of fly fishers, and he became an accomplished and passionate angler and fly tier, hosting a public-access show called On the Fly while earning a BA in English literature from the University of Oregon. He also holds a master’s degree in environmental studies from Yale University.
Before coming to the Wild Salmon Center, Mr. Rahr developed conservation programs for Oregon Trout, the United Nations Development Programme, the Rainforest Alliance, and Conservation International. He is a member of the World Conservation Union (IUCN) Salmon Specialist Group. He lives in Portland, Oregon, with his wife, Lee, and their three sons.
The Izaak Walton Award was established by AMFF in 2014 to honor and celebrate individuals who live by the Compleat Angler philosophy. Their passion for the sport of fly fishing and involvement in the angling community provides inspiration for others and promotes the legacy of leadership for future generations. Mr. Rahr’s conservation efforts (and successes!) will have a lasting impact on the sport of fly fishing—a contribution that is immeasurable and one of the many ways in which he embodies the spirit of the Izaak Walton Award.
Mark your calendars and plan to join AMFF and Dinner Committee Chair Philip Sawyer on November 14th.
For more information, please contact Sam Pitcher at spitcher@amff.org.
From Bonefish & Tarpon Trust:
New York, NY – Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) will honor business leader and acclaimed author Robert E. “Bob” Rich, Jr. at the 13th Annual NYC Dinner & Awards Ceremony on October 15, 2024.
Rich, Senior Chairman of Rich Products Corporation, will receive the Lefty Kreh Award for Lifetime Achievement in Conservation, which is BTT’s highest honor, in recognition of his support of fisheries conservation. He will be joined at the event by the cast of the forthcoming film, Blood Knot, which is based on his 2015 novel, Looking Through Water, and stars Oscar-winner Michael Douglas and his own son, Cameron.
An avid flats angler, Rich was first exposed to the art of storytelling around campfires in northern Ontario. Growing up reading Hemingway, Melville and Cervantes inspired him to write, and living on the shores of Lake Erie and the Florida Keys provided a wealth of his own tales to tell. In addition to Looking Through Water, he is the author of Fish Fights, The Fishing Club, and The Right Angle, and is the coauthor of Secrets from the Delphi Café.
In addition to his leadership of Rich Products Corporation, the largest family-owned frozen food manufacturer in the United States, Rich owns three minor league baseball teams and is a member of the South Florida Fishing Hall of Fame. With his wife, Mindy, Rich founded the Rich Entertainment Group, which produces theatrical entertainment, including the Broadway show, Water for Elephants.
“Bob Rich is known for his dynamic leadership of one of the country’s largest corporations, yet it’s his passion for fishing that’s played an important role in shaping his life,” said BTT President and CEO Jim McDuffie. “Bob has taken that ‘pull’ he feels from the water and channeled it into stories that entertain and inspire. We appreciate all that he has done to celebrate fishing and to conserve the resources on which it depends.”
The BTT Circle of Honor recognizes legendary anglers, fishing guides and conservation leaders who have made significant contributions to the conservation of the flats fishery. It is housed in the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center, located in Islamorada, Florida, and features an annually rotating exhibit about those honored as well as educational content about the significance of the flats fishery.
About Bonefish & Tarpon Trust
Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s mission is to conserve bonefish, tarpon and permit—the species, their habitats and the larger fisheries they comprise. BTT pursues this mission across the southeastern US, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea through science-based conservation, education and advocacy.
Anglers take on tuna on the Colombian Coast in “The Longest Ride” — a film from Dorsal Outdoors.
From Dorsal Outdoors:
“Heading out on a dream trip should be a thrill right? In this off-beat story, Kai and Ben ‘enjoy’ the chaos of traveling during Covid… in Colombia… on the coast.
The goal is Pacific fly fishing for tuna and sail fish fishing… the journey? Through customs, half a dozen airports and a nagging fear that there’s no way they’ll make it.”
To check out more from Dorsal Outdoors, please click here.
A new series from WildFly Productions follows anglers in their pursuit of Bahamas bonefish.
From WildFly Productions:
“Welcome to ‘Birthday Bones,’ our 4-part original series. To celebrate Scottie’s 26th birthday, the boys head south to escape winter in the west and chase bonefish on the flats of the bahamas. The mission: Find bonefish self-guided in the bonefish capital of the world.”
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
Fly fishing for big tiger trout on damselfies in Crouching Tiger Hidden Damsel — a film now available to watch online.
From the Gilbert Rowley:
“International Fly Fishing Film Festival (IF4) Official Selection 2023!!!
No two fish eat a fly the same way, and no hatch is the same one day after the next. Take for example one of the most predictable hatches each year, the damselfly hatch. For years Gilbert Rowley and Nic Heslop had brushed off the fabled rumors of a high mountain lake home to oversized tiger trout and a prolific damsel hatch. Decades of fishing this hatch on dozens of other lakes had them believing they had experienced all this hatch has to offer. However, as is often the case in fly fishing, it turns out they were wrong, way wrong. But this time their incorrect assumptions didn’t bother them. Because you never know when a good hatch will turn to great, or even epic. Huge shout out to my buddy Nic Heslop who was a huge part of this project!”
To check out more from Gilbert Rowley and the Capture Crew, please click here.
A new issue of Catch Magazine is now live online. The new issue is loaded with destination content, including from New Zealand and Chile, and there is also a new Todd Moen film available for subscribers to watch.
To check out the new issue of Catch Magazine, please click here.
A personal best trout makes for a memorable day on the water in a video from Flycraft.
From Flycraft:
“Come join us as we set out with a pair of Flycraft boats into some incredible waters with Eli and his daughter Isla. We see beautiful landscapes, find some creepy creatures, laugh and play on the river, all while Isla ends up catching her biggest ever brown trout.”
To check out more from Flycraft USA, please click here.
From the American Fly Fishing Trade Association:
WASHINGTON – Today, the American Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA) released a report written for anglers, by anglers, to kick off a nationwide campaign to inspire and empower anglers and the recreational fishing industry to demand progress toward climate-ready fisheries. The report, titled “For Tomorrow’s Fish: Anglers Are the Key to Climate-Resilient Fisheries,” documents how climate change is disrupting fishing experiences and explores how anglers are best positioned to call for climate-resilient fisheries that are healthy, sustainable, and abundant.
“This is a call to arms for an angler-led movement that can help turn the tide and protect the future of fishing,” said Lucas Bissett, Executive Director of AFFTA. “From changing habitats to shifting fish populations and behavior, we can’t ignore the realities we’re seeing out on the water. As long-time stewards of our country’s waterways who are seeing these impacts firsthand, anglers have the power to make a real difference in the fight for climate-resilient fisheries – for our sport, way of life, and industry.”
There is a long legacy of shared responsibility among anglers to protect the health of the ocean, our rivers and streams, and other vital marine habitats. The report highlights how anglers, who are witnessing the impacts of climate change day to day, are uniquely in tune with the realities occurring on their fishing grounds and possess specialized knowledge that can provide insights for adapting and managing U.S. fisheries to account for climate change.
The report details how climate change affects fish behavior, abundance, productivity, and habitat, disrupting the success and sustainability of fishing experiences coast to coast. Sea level rise and warming waters are pushing essential fish habitats to the brink, destroying places legendary sportfish need to survive. Some fish are more abundant in certain areas and obsolete in others, directly impacting the success and sustainability of fishing experiences.
Communities that rely on fishing-related activities are seeing extreme weather, stronger, less predictable storms and flooding that are damaging critical fishing and coastal infrastructure like docks, boats, local businesses, and coastal roads and neighborhoods. These climate impacts are posing never-before-seen challenges for anglers such as declines in the availability of baitfish, productivity of fish populations, and habitat health. Fishing experiences are suffering as a result, meaning long-held fishing traditions and opportunities for future generations of anglers are at risk.
The report is supported by more than two dozen leading outdoor brands and organizations such as Orvis, Patagonia, Far Bank, Mayfly, Bajio, and more. The release of the report kicks off the For Tomorrow’s Fish campaign that will elevate the voices of anglers and empower them to demand progress toward climate-resilient fisheries.
For more information, visit www.tomorrowsfish.org.
About AFFTA:
The American Fly Fishing Trade Association, and its conservation arm, the AFFTA Fisheries Fund, represent the community of fly-fishing businesses aligned around the sustainable growth of fly fishing, a commitment to conservation, and policies that support a thriving industry. As a trade association, AFFTA helps fly fishing businesses collaborate, coalesce and concentrate on issues facing the industry.
Contact:
Meg Fosha
mfosha@signaldc.com
214-679-2866
Bikepacking through Patagonia! In BIKE TO FLY, a new film from Will Phelps, anglers participate in an extraordinary trip.
From Will Phelps:
“About two years ago, my friend Miles Sebald decided to travel up to Dead Horse, Alaska, with his bike and ride south in one push to the opposite side of the world in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. Erika and I made plans to meet up with Miles when he reached Patagonia, where we biked and fished with him for 9 days.
4WD Coffee: https://4wdcoffee.com/
Filmed by: Miles Sebald, Erika Florian, and Will Phelps
Edited by: Will Phelps
Animations by: Annie Robertson”
To check out more from Will Phelps, please click here.
Anglers head to the Bahamas to fly fish for bonefish in the trailer for “Birthday Bones” — a film coming soon from WildFly Productions.
From WildFly Productions:
“Our new 4-Part series “Birthday Bones” Launches May 19th.”
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
From Guide Relief Program:
Bozeman, MT May 10, 2024 – Supporting communities often comes together in the form of “Block Parties”. Friends and neighbors gather, building a sense of community and togetherness.
Join us for “Guides Across America Adventure Hour,” a live social event supporting outdoor guides. This collaborative effort, which includes the Guide Relief Program (GRP), Sawyer Paddles and Oars, and the Fly Fishing Film Tour, goes live on Wednesday, May 15. Starting at 3:00 Mountain Time, the Adventure Hour kicks off. Tune in to hear stories, ask questions of our guests, and learn more about the Guide Relief Program and our work to support the guide community.
Scheduled to participate in GAA’s Adventure Hour:
- Costa
- Korkers
- Mustang Survival
- Rising Nets
- Riversmith
- Sawyer Oars
- St. Croix Rod
- Sweetwater Travel
- Turtlebox
Join us live on May 15 for Adventure Hour to learn more about GAA, our partners, and the work that the Guide Relief Program does to support the guide community.
Connect with Guides Across America on Facebook, Instagram, and sign up for news and updates from the Guide Relief Program. For just a suggested donation of $25.00 to support GRP, you will have the opportunity to win over $17,000 in prizes! This includes an outfitted raft and a stay with two guided days on the Bighorn River.
About the Guide Relief Program
The Guide Relief Program, recognized as an IRS-designated nonprofit organization, extends financial assistance to guides in crisis through the allocation of small grants. This aid is designed to ease some of the financial challenges that guides may encounter during periods of difficulty. Furthermore, the GRP offers a valuable resource by granting access to two months of free and confidential mental health services.
Acknowledging the significance of mental well-being, we affirm that the mental health of guides holds equal importance to their physical health. Our commitment is to ensure that guides possess the essential resources to navigate both their personal lives and their professional commitments successfully.
Media Contact Guide Relief Program and Outdoor Guides Association
Mollie Simpkins, Co-Founder & Executive Director
mollie@guidereliefprogram.org
An angler heads to Colombia to fly fish the coast in “Dan’s Pain” — a film from Dorsal Outdoors that is now available to watch online.
From Dorsal Outdoors:
“Dan is beloved by friends and family… not fish. Not matter how hard he tries, he feels like he’s cursed.
But one day, on the trip of a lifetime, the stars align. Yellowfin tuna. HUNDREDS of them. Frothing on the surface. Begging to be caught.
This is his moment, right?
Official Selection of the 2022 Fly Fishing Film Tour.”
To check out more from Dorsal Outdoors, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Backcountry Hunters & Anglers applauds the passage of the America’s Conservation Enhancement (ACE) Reauthorization Act, legislation that will keep key federal conservation programs running through the 2030 Fiscal Year.
The ACE Reauthorization Act, introduced in the U.S. Senate in February by Environment and Public Works Committee Chairman Tom Carper (D-DE) and Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), was passed by the chamber yesterday evening through unanimous consent. This bipartisan legislation will benefit hunters and anglers by renewing several important programs through the end of the decade; increasing available funding for wetlands conservation, continuing the federal Chronic Wasting Disease Task Force, and extending available funding for the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the nation’s largest grant-maker for the conservation of fish and wildlife habitat.
“Reauthorizing the ACE Act is critical to continue the momentum for the conservation of fish and wildlife habitat across North America. Support for the management of chronic wasting disease is also paramount, particularly with the recent news that it has been detected by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, confirming its presence now in 34 U.S. states and 4 Canadian provinces,” said Patrick Berry, president and CEO of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. “We commend the Senate for recognizing the importance of this legislation through a unanimous vote. Now we call upon the House of Representatives to follow suit by passing this legislation and sending it to the President’s desk with the support of sportsmen and women.”
The ACE Act was signed into law in 2020 with support from BHA. Thousands of BHA members and supporters have raised their voices both then and now on behalf of these conservation programs and this bipartisan opportunity to improve fish and wildlife habitat.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife. Learn more at www.backcountryhunters.org.
https://www.backcountryhunters.org
If you are a fly angler, you can probably appreciate a well-designed vehicle for fly fishing road trips. In a video from WildFly Productions, an angler breaks down his new dream fly fishing rig.
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
A new issue of The Mission is now available online! The new issue has a nice amount of redfish content as well as destination content from Morocco and a fly fishing trip through Eastern Europe.
To check out the new issue of The Mission, please click here.
In 2008, the film DRIFT from Confluence Films impressed anglers with destination fly fishing content from Oregon, Colorado, Montana, Utah, India, the Bahamas, and Belize. The full film is now available to watch online.
From Yellow Dog:
“Released in 2008, DRIFT changed fly-fishing forever. Shot in 16mm film and featuring locations such as India, Montana, Colorado, Utah, Belize, South Andros and Oregon. DRIFT’s deep, soulful interviews with select “legends of the sport” and others who have shaped the sport, will resonate with a musical score that features the sounds of Jack Johnson’s Brushfire recording artists. This deep rooted passion for the sport will be conveyed by these devoted (and sometimes eclectic) characters that have immersed themselves in the sport and the lifestyle of fly fishing. The fact that each segment tells a completely unique story and focuses on different characters and anglers is one of the many things that sets this project apart from other film and video releases.”
To check out more from Yellow Dog, please click here.
From Captains for Clean Water:
Ongoing lawsuit threatens Everglades restoration progress and future of Florida’s waters.Three industrial sugarcane corporations filed a lawsuit in 2021 against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers over the design and intended use of a critical Everglades restoration project, the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Reservoir.
The EAA Reservoir, considered the keystone project of Everglades restoration, is intended to provide full-scale relief to south Florida’s water quality crisis by restoring the natural Everglades flow south. Expected to be complete and operational in 2030, the reservoir will store excess Lake Okeechobee water, clean it to federal standards and move it south through the Everglades and into Florida Bay at the proper timing, volume and distribution needed
In doing so, the reservoir will help maintain the lake at lower, healthier levels; restore the ecology of the Everglades; balance salinities in Florida Bay; recharge the aquifer that provides drinking water for millions of Floridians; and mitigate the harmful lake discharges that devastate Florida’s economy and coastal ecosystems.
Captains For Clean Water Co-Founder Capt. Daniel Andrews and other stakeholders at the EAA Reservoir groundbreaking, a milestone for Everglades restoration. Photo credit to Captains For Clean Water.
The lawsuit, filed by United States Sugar Corporation, Okeelanta Corporation (Florida Crystals), and The Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida, claims they are owed a specific amount of public water for irrigation from Lake Okeechobee and that the EAA Reservoir could serve exclusively to fulfill that demand—rather than what the project was designed for to restore the Everglades and reduce harmful discharges.
This lawsuit gets to the core of the fight which is—who’s in control of the water in Florida and how is water being prioritized? Are we prioritizing water for the benefit of our economy, our environment? Or are we continuing to prioritize the irrigation supply for the sugar industry which is exactly what got us into the situation we’re in now.”
Capt. Daniel Andrews, Executive Director at Captains For Clean Water
Last year, the sugar industry’s case was ruled against by a federal judge who, in his ruling, cited arguments from the “friends of the court” brief submitted by Everglades Law Center, Captains For Clean Water and seven other organizations opposing the lawsuit.
In response, the three companies, collectively known as “Big Sugar,” filed an appeal and the case is pending before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit. Currently, the public is awaiting the court’s decision on whether oral arguments will be heard. The timing of that decision is unknown.
If Big Sugar is successful in the lawsuit, they could push to use the EAA Reservoir as their personal taxpayer-funded water supply, upending years of restoration progress and sealing the fate of Florida’s future to include more damaging coastal discharges, more toxic algal blooms, and more economic and environmental peril. It could also set a dangerous precedent, forcing Everglades restoration projects to prioritize Big Sugar’s interests and replace their historical water supply over benefits to South Florida’s waters.
High-volume discharges from Lake Okeechobee to the coasts that wreak havoc on the estuaries, communities and economy. Photo credit to Captains For Clean Water.
As the sugar industry publicly promotes support of Everglades restoration, their historical patterns continue to contradict that sentiment. This lawsuit directly threatens the single-most important restoration project that represents a sustainable solution benefiting the economy, the environment, and the quality of life for Florida’s residents and visitors.
Captains For Clean Water, a grassroots nonprofit founded to combat harmful Lake Okeechobee discharges, has launched a public movement urging Big Sugar to drop their lawsuit over the EAA Reservoir.
We believe in the power of the people to make a difference; to come together and say enough is enough. Regardless of the political mountains, regardless of the amount of corruption and dollars that our opposition puts into this—our job is to come together as we the people, come together as a collective voice, and to stand up and fight against the corruption that’s allowed this tragedy to continue for so long.
Capt. Daniel Andrews, Executive Director at Captains For Clean Water
CFCW is rallying the public to sign their petition and have already gained widespread support across various industries and sectors, including outdoor brands, tourism-driven businesses, environmental organizations, celebrity anglers, and social influencers. Learn more about the lawsuit and sign the petition here.
For interviews and inquiries, please contact Heather Nash at Heather@CaptainsForCleanWater.org.
The attached photos are available for download and permitted for media use. Credit: Courtesy of Captains For Clean Water.
Captains For Clean Water is a Florida-based 501(c)3 grassroots nonprofit on a mission to restore and protect aquatic ecosystems for the use and enjoyment of all. Founded in 2016 by fishing guides, CFCW has united the outdoor industry, business community, and concerned citizens at the forefront of the fight for clean water — the lifeblood of Florida’s economy and $85.9 billion tourism industry. Learn more at captainsforcleanwater.org or follow along on YouTube,Instagram,X (formally known as Twitter),Facebook,LinkedIn and TikTok.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the voice for our wild public lands, waters, and wildlife, today Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) applauded the Biden administration for its use of the Antiquities Act to expand the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument.
Approximately 13,696 acres encompassing Molok Luyuk (Condor Ridge) will be permanently conserved in California’s Lake and Colusa counties. The monument’s expansion will safeguard vital habitat and public access which includes the Cache Creek and Bear Valley tule elk hunt zones. These lands also hold spiritual and cultural significance to the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation, Kletsel Dehe Wintun Nation, and the Cachil Dehe Band of Wintun Indians. The Bureau of Land Management will continue to steward these public lands under their multiple-use mandate and the state of California will retain wildlife management authority ensuring hunting access will be maintained.
“Today we thank President Biden for answering the call of hunters, anglers, and public land owners across California by taking action to expand the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument through his authority under the Antiquities Act,” said Eric Hanson, chair of the California chapter of BHA. “We also commend the leadership of Sens. Padilla, as well as Reps. Garamendi and Thompson for their longtime support for the conservation of these public lands and waters that provide opportunities for sportsmen and women in a state that is rapidly developing.”
As recently as 2022 applications have been submitted for industrial scale wind energy development on Condor Ridge. The expansion of the national monument will ensure this iconic landscape and the wildlife that thrive on it remain intact. BHA has advocated for the conservation of this important region for over a decade and supported the designation of Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument by President Obama in 2015. Legislation supported by BHA to expand the national monument has been led by Reps. John Garamendi (D-CA) and Mike Thompson (D-CA) and Sen. Alex Padilla (D-CA).
BHA has consistently advocated for America’s national monuments system and the targeted use of federal conservation tools such as the Antiquities Act to permanently conserve the natural heritage and distinctive values of places like Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument and the Molok Luyuk expansion.
Key to achieving this outcome is a process that is locally driven, transparent, incorporates the science-based management of habitat, and upholds existing hunting and fishing opportunities. Additional information can be found in our report National Monuments: A Hunting and Fishing Perspective.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.
https://www.backcountryhunters.org
From Bonefish & Tarpon Trust:
Miami, Florida – Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) and Floyd Skiff Co have announced the launch of “The Florida Boat” Sweepstakes in partnership with Yamaha Rightwaters, SIMMS, Sage, YETI, COSTA, Unmatched Marine, Marquesa Marine, Magic Tilt Trailers, and Raymarine. Part of BTT’s Win Back Our Water campaign, the promotion will run from May 3 to August 15, 2024, at which time a winner will be selected at random.
“Bonefish & Tarpon Trust is proud to join forces with Floyd Skiff Co and many other industry partners to offer this special opportunity to win ‘The Florida Boat’,” said BTT President and CEO Jim McDuffie. “And this isn’t just about winning a premium poling skiff loaded with high-end fishing gear. Through the partnership, we will raise awareness of the threats impacting our waterways and world-class fisheries and share BTT’s science-based approaches to address them. Together, we can ensure a healthy future for our fisheries and all that they support.”
A hand-built Floyd 7WT Side Console, “The Florida Boat” is the epitome of angling perfection, designed with precision for both novice and experienced anglers alike. Its design and features cater to those who seek both adventure and the tranquility of Florida’s waters. As part of the promotion, “The Florida Boat” will tour several fisheries within the state, beginning in the Florida Keys, to highlight the water quality issues and the science-based solutions needed to address them.
“The Florida Boat” also features custom SeaDek by Unmatched Marine in Storm Gray, including SeaDek reel pads and a poling platform; a Yamaha F70 Outboard courtesy of Yamaha Rightwaters, BTT’s official outboard partner; an aluminum Magic Tilt Trailer with custom wheels, stainless steel hardware, a torsion axle, and LED lights; a Marquesa Marine Professional Series Push Pole designed to perform from shallow bonefish flats to deep-water tarpon spots; and a Raymarine Axiom+ 9 RV Chartplotter with GPS. Premier fishing and outdoor gear complete the package. Included are full 7- and 9-weight SALT R8 fly rod set-ups from Sage, a set of Dry Creek waterproof bags and packs from SIMMS, a polarized sunglasses prize package from COSTA, and two Hondo Base Camp chairs, a GoBox gear case, and more from YETI.
“You can’t be passionate about building skiffs without being passionate about conservation,” said Brian and Heidi Floyd, founders of Floyd Skiff Co. “Because BTT does such great work we decided to support them by doing what we do best—to help raise awareness and funds while hopefully inspiring others to do so as well.”
Located in Edgewater, Florida, Floyd Skiff Co continues to lead the industry in custom technical poling skiff design and fabrication. Brian’s career in the boating industry spans the 25 years, during which time he has worked in assembly, rigging, repair, service, warranty, quality control management, and service management for other leading boat companies. His journey led him in 2010 to the Florida Keys where he had the opportunity to manage Islamarine. This gave him the opportunity to work closely with fishing guides on a wide array of flats skiff. He applied this knowledge to create the first “10WT skiff” and to launch Floyd Skiff Co in 2019.
Launched in November 2023, BTT’s Win Back Our Water campaign seeks to raise awareness of Florida’s urgent water quality issues. The campaign highlights key issues that have been identified as harming Florida’s water quality: altered freshwater flows, failing and/or outdated wastewater and stormwater infrastructure, pharmaceutical contaminants, and glyphosate pollution that can result from the use of herbicides.
Win Back Our Water has mobilized Floridians to take action to protect their state’s waterways and builds on BTT’s water quality priorities, most notably advocacy in support of Everglades restoration. The campaign emphasizes the importance of water quality not only for marine ecosystems but also for the many Floridians who depend on clean water for their livelihoods, recreation, and quality of life.
For more information and to enter The Florida Boat Sweepstakes, please visit: *BTT.org/the-florida-boat.***
About Bonefish & Tarpon Trust
Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s mission is to conserve bonefish, tarpon and permit—the species, their habitats and the larger fisheries they comprise. BTT pursues this mission across the southeastern US, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea through science-based conservation, education and advocacy.
Closing the day with the view of “Campo Ventura” and the granite mountains of Mount Trinidad in the background.Cochamo, Chile _2019From Patagonia:
Led by Chilean NGO Puelo Patagonia, the campaign Conserva Puchegüín is working urgently to raise $78 million to purchase and protect 325,000 acres in Chilean Patagonia.
The campaign has two years to raise the money needed to protect the Cochamó Valley, also known as the “Yosemite of South America” by rock climbers around the globe. The area features thousand-meter granite walls, glacier-crowned peaks, rivers, plunging waterfalls and massive groves of alerce trees, plus endangered and endemic species, and many small communities with traditional ways of life.
Puelo Patagonia and The Nature Conservancy have entered into a purchase option agreement with the current landowner to acquire and protect Hacienda Puchegüín, 325,000 acres of land in Chilean Patagonia that includes the Cochamó Valley. The agreement gives the conservationists two years to raise the money to purchase the land.
Initial donations have been secured by Freyja Foundation and Wyss Foundation, but the campaign still needs to raise approximately $63 million. Outdoor apparel company Patagonia Inc. has been supporting Puelo Patagonia through its 1% for the Planet environmental grants program since 2016, and the company’s nonprofit, the Holdfast Collective, has recently expressed interest in joining the campaign.
Hacienda Puchegüín caught the attention of conservation organizations when it was listed for sale in 2022 through Christie’s auction house in New York. Despite being surrounded by over 4,000,000 acres of Chilean and Argentine parks, reserves and nature sanctuaries, the property is exposed to a variety of threats, such as land fragmentation, that have endangered the area. Thus, the acquisition of Puchegüín represents not only an opportunity to protect the region’s ecological and cultural heritage, but also to ensure the integrity of one of the most important biological corridors in Latin America.
“We are a group of organizations that share a dream: We want to conserve this critical land for its immense environmental and cultural value,” said Andrés Diez, executive director of Puelo Patagonia. “For years, Puchegüín was threatened by projects with a different vision than the one held by the local community. This campaign is just the beginning of an even bigger project—a unique opportunity for Cochamó, the country and the world.”
“The Wyss Foundation is proud to pledge the first major gift in support of permanently protecting Hacienda Puchegüín,” said Molly McUsic, president of the Wyss Foundation. “The region signifies not only an immense stretch of land crucial to the environment and biodiversity of the Cochamó region of Chilean Patagonia, but a haven for the local communities who are active stewards of this conservation project. Protecting Hacienda Puchegüín will mean saving endangered species of wildlife and preserving the cultural value of thousands of hectares of land. We are thankful for the partnership of Freyja Foundation, Puelo Patagonia, The Nature Conservancy and Patagonia in this endeavor, and encourage others to join in this effort to ensure Hacienda Puchegüín receives the permanent protection it deserves.”
“While our 2023 acquisition secured a critical 309-hectare property near Cochamo’s entrance, Freyja’s vision extends far beyond this initial success. Puchegüín represents a much larger, environmentally significant area within the greater Cochamó Valley,” said Anne Deane, president of the Freyja Foundation. “Protecting this area is not just about safeguarding a one-off property; it’s a crucial step towards ensuring the ecological health of Patagonia as a whole. True conservation thrives on a holistic approach, one that considers interconnected ecosystems and the long-term well-being of the entire region. This philosophy guided our strategic land purchase last year, and it continues to fuel our ongoing efforts. We’re actively working to inspire further action and involvement, fostering a collaborative effort to secure Puchegüín’s future for the benefit of Chile and the world.”
“Conserva Puchegüín is an example of radical collaboration for conservation where we seek to protect this area of great natural and cultural value alongside local communities,” said Juan Jose Donoso, executive director of The Nature Conservancy Chile. “As an organization, The Nature Conservancy offers our knowledge and global experience of more than 60 years in developing large conservation projects, and our learnings in Chile from 20 years of managing the Valdivian Coastal Reserve, a protected area that is a model of science-based conservation, in coordination with local communities and developing financial mechanisms that ensure its future protection. As The Nature Conservancy, we hope that Conserva Puchegüín will be a model that can be replicated in Chile and the rest of the world. Puchegüín is located in the heart of Northern Patagonia and, as such, is part of a region that is a priority for TNC to protect. Patagonia is one of the iconic landscapes and one of the most important climate refuges in Latin America.”
“Our five organizations—Puelo Patagonia, The Nature Conservancy, Freyja Foundation, Wyss Foundation and Patagonia, Inc.—are bound by the common goal of protecting Cochamó forever, and we look forward to finding even more like-minded organizations to join us over the coming months and years,” said Alex Perry, general manager of Latin America for Patagonia, Inc. “If we are successful, and I am confident we will be, not only will more than 300,000 acres of threatened land and water be protected, but we will have created an enduring example of how large-scale, community led yet globally collaborative conservation projects can be successful.”
Photo by Catalina Claro.Miguel Boehm (@negroffwidth) climbing the route “between crystals and condors” on the wall of time, in the amphitheatre.Notes to editor
About Puchegüín: a place of major ecological value
· The Puchegüín area, globally renowned for its natural beauty and geological magnificence, encompasses over 58,000 hectares of primary forest—a critical resource that’s rapidly vanishing across the globe. Within this vast expanse are 18,000 hectares of endangered alerce trees, a species recognized for its longevity, that represents roughly 10% of Chile’s alerce habitat. These temperate forests play a pivotal role in transforming the region into a climate refuge, boasting the continent’s second-largest carbon sink. Chilean Patagonia’s vast forest cover, peatlands and wetlands collectively store approximately twice the amount of carbon per hectare compared to the Amazon.
· Puchegüín also encompasses an enormous reserve of freshwater and provides critical habitat for other endangered and endemic species such as Darwin’s frog, the huemul, the Patagonian vizcacha and the monito del monte—one of South America’s few marsupials.
· Puchegüín is also home to a unique mountain community with a deeply rooted Gaucho culture, characterized by horsemanship, agrarianism and small-scale livestock farming. This initiative seeks to develop a sustainable economic growth system that will support—not destroy—local traditions, culture and ways of life. Building from Puelo Patagonia’s local expertise and experience, Conserva Puchegüín not only focuses on the needs of the local communities as the foundation for all kinds of development, but also actively seeks their involvement. Conserva Puchegüín respects these communities’ long and successful tenure as stewards of this land and recognizes their presence as a defense against irresponsible and unsustainable future development.
· Purchasing this property will generate a unique opportunity to develop a local economic model based on conservation and ecotourism, which will foster the types of sustainable businesses and trades linked to any new protected area—with the anticipated result being a reduction in poverty, an improvement of wellbeing and a strengthening of the community’s social fabric.
About Conserva Puchegüín: a unique alliance with a modern vision for conservation
· As far back as early 2010, NGOs in the Cochamó region have successfully halted high-impact projects slated for this private property.
· Hacienda Puchegüín’s 2022 sale listing sparked concern amongst local communities and conservation groups who have long protected the area, inciting fear that a new owner may lack the knowledge or respect for the territory and its people.
· Conserva Puchegüín was formed to fight this possibility. This alliance combines the deep knowledge and local experience of Puelo Patagonia with the global perspective and proven success in large-scale conservation and fundraising projects of The Nature Conservancy, Freyja Foundation, Patagonia, Inc. and Wyss Foundation.
· Conserva Puchegüín is now launching an international fundraising campaign. Alongside international outreach, the alliance will continue to center local community members and authorities, encouraging their active participation and engagement in project design and planning.
About Puelo Patagonia
Puelo Patagonia is a nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to protecting the natural and cultural heritage of the Cochamó region in Chilean Patagonia. Over the past ten years, we have carried out numerous projects directly related to local environmental problems, collecting relevant scientific research, and providing legal tools to help protect the pristine ecosystems of Cochamó, and the communities that live there. In 2023, we achieved one of our greatest victories—the declaration of the Cochamó Valley Nature Sanctuary—which protected 11,400 hectares of invaluable wilderness under Chilean law in perpetuity. We have also worked hand in hand with the people of Cochamó to undertake a number of projects, including: 1) creating sustainable limits for mass tourism; 2) monitoring native flora and fauna; 3) implementing a rural volunteer program; and 4.) petitioning the Chilean government to declare the Puelo River a Water Reserve—which, when successful, will be a first of its kind designation in Chile. For more information about Puelo Patagonia, visit http://www.puelopatagonia.cl or @puelopatagonia on Instagram.
About The Nature Conservancy
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a global environmental organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which life depends. Guided by science, we create innovative, practical solutions to our world’s most pressing challenges so that nature and people can thrive together. We are tackling climate change, conserving lands, waters and oceans on an unprecedented scale, providing food and water sustainably, and helping to make cities more sustainable. We work in 77 countries and territories: 41 through direct conservation impact and 36 through partners, using a collaborative approach involving local communities, governments, the private sector and other partners. For more information about TNC’s work in Chile, visit http://www.nature.org/chile or @tnc_chile on X and Instagram.
About Freyja Foundation
Freyja Foundation is an international private, charitable organization dedicated to developing and supporting innovative, scalable, and lasting conservation solutions that protect wild places and combat the climate crisis. Its work integrates protecting existing at-threat carbon sinks, re-establishing biodiversity, and empowering local communities. Freyja Foundation began supporting conservation in Chile in 2018. In 2023, as part of a larger effort to protect the Cochamó Valley, the foundation purchased a critical 309-hectare property of high ecological and cultural value in the region, which will be committed to conservation. For more information on Freyja Foundation, visit http://www.freyjafoundation.org or @freyja_foundation on Instagram.
About Patagonia, Inc.
We’re in business to save our home planet. Founded by Yvon Chouinard in 1973, Patagonia is an outdoor apparel company based in Ventura, California. As a certified B Corporation and a founding member of 1% for the Planet, the company is recognized internationally for its product quality and environmental activism, as well as its contributions of more than $230 million to environmental organizations. Its unique ownership structure reflects that Earth is its only shareholder: Profits not reinvested back into the business are paid as dividends to protect the planet.
About Wyss Foundation
Wyss Foundation is a private, charitable foundation dedicated to supporting innovative, lasting solutions that improve lives, empower communities, and strengthen connections to the land. Since its establishment in 1998, it has helped governments, Indigenous communities, and other charitable organizations protect more than 100 million acres of land and more than 3 million square kilometers of ocean. These lands and waters are now conserved in perpetuity for current and future generations to enjoy and explore. Wyss Foundation leverages the expertise of grantees to establish partnerships with like-minded organizations and accelerate conservation efforts. For more information about the Wyss Foundation, visit www.wyssfoundation.org or follow @WyssFoundation on Twitter/X.
To learn more or donate, click here.
A new video from Flycraft highlights some of their trips from 2024. As they put it, “Welcome to FLYCRAFT. This is who we are, this is what we love and this is what we do.” Some great footage in this one.
To check out more from Flycraft USA, please click here.
A fly fishing trip to pursue wild Yellowstone cutthroat trout is the focus of a new film from WildFly Productions and Tight Loops.
From WildFly Productions:
“‘Hope And High Water’ is the first collaborative effort from Wild Fly Productions and @TightLoops . It chronicles filmmakers Scottie, Aimee, and Chase’s quest to find one of the American West’s most iconic fish, the Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout, deep in the heart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. With schedules aligned, locations set, and the perfect window for late summer fishing on the horizon, the crew embarks on what they hope will be a week long backcountry trip for the ages, but they quickly learn that the wild corners of the West are anything but predictable.”
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
To check out more from Tight Loops, please click here.
From Patagonia:
VENTURA, Calif. — This week, the Home Planet Fund launches. It is a new independent nonprofit that supports local and Indigenous communities who work in concert with nature to stop climate breakdown.
In 2021, outdoor apparel company Patagonia committed $20 million in seed funding to help launch the Home Planet Fund. This new, independent nonprofit will operate as a 501(c)(3) that can receive contributions from other donors, large and small.
Home Planet Fund will also let the communities it invests in make their own decisions.
“We trust Indigenous Peoples,” said Dilafruz Khonikboyeva, executive director of the Home Planet Fund. “Indigenous Peoples and tribal communities have been doing this work for centuries, but they’re not being supported well enough. The Home Planet Fund will vet the communities we invest in and then we will get out of the way, so they can decide how to spend the investment best. No long grant applications. No need to gather data to relentlessly track progress. No strings attached. They already know what works, and they know their communities. We trust them.”
Radical trust in its partners will be matched with a willingness to take risks. Home Planet Fund will work in fragile and rural places others can’t or won’t.
Why go this route? Because Indigenous Peoples manage more than 24% of the world’s land, representing 40% of the intact landscapes left on the planet—and a staggering 80% of the world’s biodiversity. These communities feel the impacts of the climate crisis firsthand, while contributing practically nothing to it—and they’re pursuing brilliantly simple solutions that can help mitigate it.
Home Planet Fund is collaborating with Indigenous-led NGOs on four continents to support priorities determined by the communities themselves:
- Asia: Tajikistan
- Africa: Kenya + Tanzania + Uganda
- Oceania: Pacific Islands
- North America: Alaska, USA
Funds will be used to expand the traditional practices of Maasai pastoralists in Kenya and Tanzania, promote the wisdom of Pacific Islanders in Fiji and Vanuatu, support indigenous farming practices in Tajikistan, and so much more.
The goal is not only to support these critical efforts, but to spread the knowledge of Indigenous People all over the globe. Although many of their techniques are ancient, they are not unsophisticated: Indigenous practices reflect a deep understanding of the natural world, honed over generations.
Learn more at homeplanetfund.org.
About Home Planet Fund
Home Planet Fund is a global initiative addressing the climate crisis in Indigenous communities that are typically overlooked—and we’re doing it at a scale never seen before. We’re advancing proven nature-based solutions along with trusted partners across the globe.
We encourage people to visit our website, follow our social-media channels (below), donate to the cause, and spread the stories of the people whose practices, which have been proven for millennia, have always been the only ones that can now heal the Earth.
Contact: info@homeplanetfund.org
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Redfish in Louisiana are the target of anglers in a new video from Dorsal Outdoors.
From Dorsal Outdoors:
“It was an easy idea. Drive down to Louisiana & catch a bunch of redfish on the fly.
Then there was a business meeting. Then there was a planning error. and then… there were zombie redfish.
Follow Dan and George (and a little bit of Ben) as they try and make the best of a scary fly fishing situation.
Why redfish? Fly fishing for redfish holds a unique allure that captivates anglers worldwide. One of the primary reasons enthusiasts are drawn to this pursuit is the challenge it presents. Redfish, renowned for their strength and resilience, provide a thrilling fight when hooked on a fly rod. Their powerful runs and bulldozing tactics test the angler’s skills and equipment, creating an exhilarating battle between human and fish. This challenge adds an element of excitement and satisfaction to the sport, pushing fly fishers to hone their techniques and strategize their approach, enhancing the overall experience.
Moreover, the pursuit of redfish often takes anglers to breathtaking coastal environments, further enriching the appeal of fly fishing for these majestic creatures. Whether wading in shallow flats or poling through mangrove-lined estuaries, the scenic beauty of the redfish habitat enhances the fishing experience. The serene ambiance of coastal marshes and crystal-clear waters teeming with life creates a tranquil yet invigorating atmosphere for anglers to immerse themselves in nature. Beyond the thrill of the catch, fly fishing for redfish offers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with the pristine wilderness, fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world.
Additionally, the distinct behavior and feeding patterns of redfish contribute to the fascination surrounding fly fishing for this species. Redfish are notorious for their voracious appetite and willingness to aggressively strike a well-presented fly. Whether hunting for prey along shallow flats or prowling the edges of oyster beds, these opportunistic feeders offer anglers numerous opportunities to entice them with a perfectly executed cast. The strategic approach required to locate and entice redfish adds an element of intrigue to the sport, stimulating the angler’s senses and igniting a passion for exploration and discovery on the water. Ultimately, it is this combination of challenge, natural beauty, and the thrill of the hunt that makes fly fishing for redfish a beloved pursuit among anglers worldwide.”
To check out more from Dorsal Outdoors, please click here.
Despite obstructing rivers and creaks, beavers have a tremendous positive impact on ecosystems. In a video from Patagonia, a team works to improve habitats by replicating the work of beavers.
From Patagonia:
“In the absence of actual beavers, beaver dam analogs are convincing imitations that can spur the processes needed to recreate complex, healthy meadows with improved spawning habitat for steelhead, Chinook salmon and other species. If all goes according toplan, a passing beaver might see these human-made dams, complemented by the soft, pooling water they love, and think, ‘This is nice … but I could do better.’ The hope is they’ll stick around. Watch the Oregon Hand Crew as they weave wood and mud into beaver dam replicas to revive cold water habitats and restore the fish population in the headwater meadows of Oregon’s North Fork John Day River.”
To check out more from Patagonia, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
MINNEAPOLIS, MN— This past weekend in Minneapolis, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) commemorated its 20th anniversary at the 2024 North American Rendezvous, BHA’s flagship annual gathering. Overall, the event was wildly successful, drawing members and supporters from across the continent to celebrate their shared passion for conservation and advocacy for public lands, waters, and wildlife on behalf of hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts. This year marks the first time the Rendezvous experience was brought to the BHA community outside of the Northern Rockies, pulling in hundreds of additional attendees from the region.
“The personal connections and shared commitment for the BHA mission that exist across our broader community is nothing short of remarkable,” said Patrick Berry, president and CEO of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. “Every time I connect with BHA members and chapter leaders across the continent I am inspired by their passion and dedication, and their participation and engagement during my inaugural Rendezvous experience was no exception. This really is a can’t-miss event for hunters and anglers who care about conservation and the future of our outdoor pursuits.”
This year’s Rendezvous boasted record participation in the Wild Game Cookoff, and featured a variety of seminars focused on wildlife management, how-to demonstrations, and special presentations on emerging issues aligned with the BHA mission. Featured seminars were offered by national leaders Jon Gassett from the Wildlife Management Institute and Gaspar Perricone from Freestone Strategies in Colorado on the growing threats to science-based management of public wildlife resources. Additionally, BHA founder Ben Long was on hand to help mark two decades of BHA’s remarkable trajectory, provide his expertise on successful advocacy, and share his personal story that inspired his BHA journey.
During the inspiring and sometimes emotional annual awards ceremony, BHA members and chapters across the community were recognized for their exceptional achievements over the past year for their contributions to their chapters and the BHA mission. Select awards included BHA’s Washington Chapter and their efforts to protect hunting opportunities, as well as recognition of the individual accomplishments of Arkansas’ James Brandenburg and New England’s Patrick Saunders.
Additionally, the annual Field to Table Dinner highlighted the culinary skills of some of the finest wild game chefs in North America who delighted guests with an incredible multi-course meal featuring a wide variety of sustainably harvested wild game. And during the annual BHA North American Board Meeting held in Minneapolis prior to the official start of the Rendezvous celebration, a new slate of officers were elected to help guide BHA ‘s trajectory in the coming years. Newly elected board Chair Ryan Callaghan hails from Bozeman, MT and currently serves as the Conservation Director of MeatEater.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.
https://www.backcountryhunters.org
A team from Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures recently embarked on a big trip to Chile and got some great video footage while on the trip. This is part two.
From Yellow Dog Flyfishing:
“Pablo Neruda once described Chile as a country ‘invented by a poet.’ Spanning over 2,880 miles along South America’s western coast, Chile offers a breathtaking range of landscapes, from the arid Atacama Desert to the majestic Torres del Paine National Park and the rugged beauty of Tierra del Fuego. With one-third of its territory covered by the Andes, Chile’s natural wonders are often likened to the US Pacific Northwest. Since the 1980s, Chile has emerged as a top destination for freshwater fly fishing, making it a must-visit for trout anglers worldwide.”
To check out more from Yellow Dog Flyfishing, please click here.
From St. Croix:
PARK FALLS, WIS. (April 22, 2024) – Along the picturesque and historic Flambeau River lies the small city of Park Falls, Wisconsin, population 2,410. Like many other sparsely settled communities dotting the north woods, Park Falls has its roots in the logging trades but, today, derives its economic viability largely from tourism – offering goods and services in support of the millions of individuals who travel to the region for its ample and varied outdoor-recreational opportunities.
Fishing is near the top of the list of these opportunities, so, it’s fitting that Park Falls is also the home of St. Croix Rod – handcrafters of the Best Rods on Earth for the past 75 years.
“St. Croix exists to give anglers what we call the upper hand, which is a better and more-rewarding experience on the water doing what they love,” says St. Croix Vice President of Operations, Jason Brunner, a 27-year employee of the family-owned, American company. “That promise to anglers certainly means delivering performance and reliability, but to those of us here at St. Croix, it also means doing it in responsible ways that align with one of the most foundational aspects of recreational fishing, and that’s environmental stewardship.”
To Brunner’s point, our North American fisheries research, conservation, and management has been almost entirely funded by recreational anglers for most of the past century. Self-imposed excise taxes on fishing gear along with fishing-license fees provide the lion’s share of this revenue stream, but many individual anglers, fishing organizations, and fishing companies themselves establish their own projects and programs designed to further the health and wealth of natural resources upon which recreational angling depends.
“Just as we’re looking every day to identify new materials, technologies, and processes that improve the quality and performance of our fishing products, we’re constantly looking at ways to reduce our ecological footprint,” says Brunner. “From simple things like eliminating Styrofoam coffee cups to more involved initiatives like changing the way we paint our rods, we’re keeping our promise to anglers by increasing the quality of their fishing experiences while reducing environmental impacts.”
Biodegradable Rod Bags and Packing Materials
St. Croix handcrafts hundreds of thousands of fishing rods every year, and all of those rods must be wrapped to protect them throughout distribution. Instead of traditional plastic, St. Croix uses poly bags (and cello-wrap packing material) made from natural and renewable resources like sugar cane, potato starch, and other biologically sourced polymers. These eco-friendly packing materials are both biodegradable and compostable.
Electrostatic Painting
The poly bags described above help to protect the beautiful and durable finish that goes onto every St. Croix rod, many of which are sprayed in a paint booth. Excess paint particles containing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are collected by a vacuum system and then caught in filters which are disposed of and replaced. “A little over two years ago, we moved to an electrostatic paint process,” Brunner says. “By applying mild, opposing electronic charges to our paint and to the rod blanks being painted, we’ve been able to greatly increase our efficiency, meaning we’re using a lot less paint to begin with, and generating far fewer excess paint particles that must be disposed of.”
Reduced Scrap
Beyond paint, St. Croix uses a variety of raw materials to craft the Best Rods on Earth. By improving practices and procedures over the past two years, St. Croix has reduced its overall scrap – excess raw materials that are either discarded or recycled – by more than 20%. “That’s significant, and we’re looking for ways to increase that number,” Brunner says. “Our computer-operated precision pattern-cutting machines maximize the number of patterns that can be created from a single roll of carbon fiber pre-preg material and are just one example of how we are minimizing waste.”
Enhanced Recycling
In addition to reducing the amount of scrap and material waste throughout the factory, St. Croix has an aggressive recycling program. “We use a polypropylene tape product to wrap our rod blanks during the curing process,” says Brunner. “We have a partnership with a local Wisconsin company that collects and recycles these materials every two weeks or so.”
Acetone is another product which St. Croix recycles. “We use quite a bit of acetone in the factory,” Brunner says. “It’s essential to the cleaning and decontamination of our mandrels and our painting equipment. We invested in an in-house acetone recycler about five years ago, which has cut the amount of virgin acetone we need to purchase and use by about 50%.”
All in 75 Years’ Work
Just as St. Croix relies on anglers to purchase the Best Rods on Earth, anglers rely on St. Croix and other fishing manufacturers to do their parts to conserve and protect the natural resources upon which all recreational fishing depends. But that doesn’t automatically happen. In fact, due to continued economic globalization, it’s happening less and less.
“As an American company that’s been owned by the same family for the past 47 years and been making fishing rods in the same community for 75 years, we’ve learned to see and appreciate the bigger picture,” Brunner says. “That means being accountable to our anglers, to our community, to our industry, and to ourselves. We make our rods in our own factories with our own people; we sell them to our dealers; and our dealers sell them to our anglers. We put our name on every rod… we don’t have anyone or anything to hide behind. Our manufacturing model is based on controlling everything we can – including our environmental footprint – so we can continue to make premium fishing rods that increase our anglers’ control on the water.
About St. Croix Rod
Headquartered in Park Falls, Wisconsin, St. Croix has been proudly crafting the “Best Rods on Earth” for over 75 years. Combining state-of-the-art manufacturing processes with skilled craftsmanship, St. Croix is the only major producer to still build rods entirely from design through manufacturing. The company remains family-owned and operates duplicate manufacturing facilities in Park Falls and Fresnillo, Mexico. With popular trademarked series such as Legend®, Legend Xtreme®, Avid®, Premier®, Imperial®, Triumph® and Mojo, St. Croix is revered by all types of anglers from around the world.
It’s Earth Day. A look at the numbers …
From CBS Sunday Morning:
“Monday, April 22, is Earth Day, when we celebrate our world and support protection of the environment. “Sunday Morning” looks at some facts about our changing planet.”
To check out more from CBS Sunday Morning, please click here.
Anglers take on tarpon, kingfish, amberjacks and more in an old episode of Sportsman’s Journal.
From Mill House:
“On this episode, I was joined by the one and only R.T. Trosset aboard “Spindrift” to catch Amberjacks & Kingfish on fly way out near the Dry Tortugas. We then ventured inshore near Key West Harbour to catch Tarpon on crabs.
DISCLAIMER: These shows were shot in the 90’s and display some improper fish handling techniques that are very frowned upon today. I wish I knew back then what I know now! Also, some of the shows have static and bad quality parts and pieces. It is what it is!”
To check out more from Mill House, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced its intent to deny the permit for the Ambler Road Project, safeguarding Alaska’s famed Brooks Range and its unparalleled hunting and fishing grounds. This significant announcement was met with applause from Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA).
This announcement of the final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement and the selection of the “No Action Alternative” as the preferred alternative is a significant conservation win for all public land owners that value these remote landscapes, which produce spectacular public land backcountry opportunities.
In 2024 thousands of hunters and anglers from across the nation have joined Hunters & Anglers for the Brooks Range, a coalition of organizations including BHA battling for the conservation of the incredible public lands and waters in central Alaska, in urging the BLM to prevent the Ambler Road from moving forward.
“The Brooks Range is a beacon of wild, rugged, remarkable country that exists in few places in today’s world,” said Mary Glaves, Alaska Chapter Coordinator for BHA. “You can hike and hunt for days or float for a hundred miles and not see another soul. It’s an irreplaceable type of backcountry experience.”
Alaska’s Brooks Range could be permanently altered by the proposed Ambler Road. The private 211-mile industrial east to west corridor would facilitate the development of at least four mostly large, open-pit mines by foreign interests. The industrial road plan would have bisected important caribou habitat and cross nearly 3,000 streams and rivers, impacting key watersheds like the Kobuk and Koyukuk.
“Alaska’s Arctic landscape is as unique and diverse as the habitat within its boundaries. Projects like the Ambler Road backed by foreign mining companies and special interest groups threaten our subsistence way of life,” said Ryan Bandy, policy chair for the Alaska Chapter of BHA. “We celebrate this victory and the continued opportunity for sportsmen and women to hunt, trap, and fish in one of the most remote, scenic, and wild places in Alaska.”
“The risks of the Ambler Road outweigh any potential benefits,” continued Bandy. “Alaska BHA thanks the Bureau of Land Management for their diligence in the public process and their intent to safeguard these wild public lands, backcountry opportunities, and subsistence resources.”
Our work isn’t done yet. We need your help to ensure that the agency clinches this important conservation victory when it issues its final record of decision later this year. Hunters & Anglers for the Brooks Range will continue to elevate the voices of sportsmen and women that support a wild and remote Brooks Range.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.
https://www.backcountryhunters.org
The crew from Dorsal Outdoors took a lengthy trip throughout the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico and captured great fly fishing footage throughout the trip. Much of this angling action is now available in a video from Dorsal Outdoors.
From Dorsal Outdoors:
“For the Dorsal crew, most trips go wrong. Like, 99% go wrong. But in rare form, it all comes together in this nearly 2 hour adventure across Mexico. There are tarpon, bonefish, permit, jacks,— sometimes from the beach. Sometimes from paddle boards. Sometimes all at the same time.
But looking back, embarking on a fly fishing journey across the Yucatan Peninsula with lifelong friends is a truly unforgettable adventure. The pristine waters of the Yucatan offer an angler’s paradise, with its expansive flats, mangrove-lined estuaries, and hidden lagoons teeming with a variety of game fish. The camaraderie among lifelong friends adds an extra layer of joy to the experience, as shared memories and inside jokes intertwine with the pursuit of elusive catches beneath the tropical sun.
As the journey unfolds, the group navigates through the enchanting landscapes of the Yucatan, casting their lines in pursuit of coveted species like bonefish, permit, and tarpon. The fly fishing expeditions become a harmonious blend of skill, strategy, and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty surrounding them. Each day brings new challenges and triumphs, whether it’s stalking a tailing bonefish in shallow waters or wrestling with the powerful acrobatics of a tarpon on the line. The Yucatan’s rich biodiversity provides a dynamic and rewarding playground for these passionate anglers.”
To check out more from Dorsal Outdoors, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the voice for our wild public lands, waters, and wildlife, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) applauded the Public Lands Rule finalized today by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) recognizing conservation in public land management as a value on par with other uses. The rule represents a long overdue acknowledgement of the tremendous value of fish and wildlife habitat and recognition that BLM land holdings are owned by all Americans.
The BLM stewards 245 million acres of public lands that include significant habitat and ecological resources upon which hunters and anglers rely for opportunities to pursue their outdoor passions. The rule clarifies that the management of these public lands for conservation is a valid use and should be considered as such under the multiple-use and sustained yield framework of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act.
“When implemented, the rule will provide tremendous long-term conservation and recreational benefits on land stewarded by the BLM that finally represents the interest of more Americans,” said Patrick Berry, BHA’s President and CEO. “We thank the Biden administration and the leadership within the Department of the Interior for their commitment to ensuring our public lands are managed in a balanced way that properly recognizes the value of conservation.”
The rule directs the BLM to consider land health assessments in decision-making, a goal that enables the agency to make informed choices for the long-term management of the landscape. Managing for landscape health will increase the resilience of public lands and waters in response to climate change, ensure the conservation of critical habitat, and plan management in a way that addresses the needs of local communities, states, and Tribes. The rule also emphasizes the role of Areas of Critical Environmental Concern where special management attention is required to protect vulnerable landscapes.
“Hunters and anglers support the Public Lands Rule because it will prioritize important active management prescriptions to tackle invasive species, restore degraded lands and waters, and conserve intact habitats critical to wildlife corridors,” said Kaden McArthur, BHA’s Government Relations Manager. “With less than 15% of BLM lands currently managed for conservation, this is a critical step forward to properly balancing the use of our largest public lands estate.”
The final rule follows an extended public comment period, including feedback from thousands of hunters and anglers to strengthen and clarify the rule. More than 90% of comments supported the rule, a testament to the importance conservation of wild places has across the United States.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.
https://www.backcountryhunters.org
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON, D.C.— As the voice for our wild public lands, waters, and wildlife, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) shared support today for the proposed Chuckwalla National Monument which would conserve approximately 627,000 acres of public lands in the vast desert of southern California.
This afternoon, Sens. Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Laphonza Butler (D-CA), along with Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA), introduced the Chuckwalla National Monument Establishment and Joshua Tree National Park Expansion Act of 2024. BHA joined the bill sponsors and a coalition of conservation organizations, Tribes, area businesses, and local residents in calling on the President Biden to designate the proposed national monument using his authority under the Antiquities Act. This announcement follows the introduction of legislation by Rep. Ruiz in September of 2023.
The Chuckwalla National Monument would conserve vast, intact public lands within the California desert, home to desert bighorn sheep, burro and mule deer, and the proposed location for the reintroduction of Sonoran pronghorn. Lands within the proposed monument would remain under the authority of the Bureau of Land Management, maintaining access for hunters. The state of California would retain wildlife management authority, including active management for water resources to sustain wildlife populations. This proposal would also connect habitat and wildlife movement corridors from the Joshua Tree National Park to the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge in Arizona.
“Undeveloped public lands in the California desert are critical for maintaining intact habitat and movement corridors necessary for wildlife, perhaps none more iconic than the desert bighorn sheep, which our members have supported through hands-on projects in this region,” said Eric Hanson, chair of the California chapter of BHA. “We thank Sens. Padilla and Butler and Rep. Ruiz for their leadership in recognizing the importance of this unique landscape and ask President Biden to designate the Chuckwalla National Monument through the Antiquities Act.”
Public lands conserved through the Antiquities Act have sustained and improved incredible opportunity for hunters and anglers across the United States. To achieve this outcome requires a process that is locally driven, transparent, incorporates the science-based management of habitat, and upholds existing hunting and fishing opportunities. Additional information can be found in our report: National Monuments: A Hunting and Fishing Perspective.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.
https://www.backcountryhunters.org
From St. Croix:
PARK FALLS, Wis. (April 15, 2024) – St. Croix Rod invites anglers to join in celebration of fishing at its 2024 Customer Appreciation Day, Saturday, June 22 at the St. Croix Factory in Park Falls, Wisconsin.
“Customer Appreciation Day has evolved and grown over the years, but the event’s identity and purpose have remained the same,” says St. Croix Vice President of Marketing, Jesse Simpkins. “It’s a chance for our entire team at St. Croix to express thanks to anglers and celebrate our collective passion for fishing. The opportunity to spend a really fun day getting to know and interacting with anglers face-to-face from around the world is something special, and we look forward to every year.”
Visiting anglers – as many as 2,500 of them – look forward to it as well. “We have anglers who make the trip to Customer Appreciation Day in Park Falls an annual pilgrimage, plus hundreds of new visitors each year,” says St. Croix Vice President of Sales, Steve Self. “They come from as far as Florida, California, and Maine, and we’ve had visitors from Australia and Europe, too. We do everything we can to give everyone who joins us – and even those who participate in CAD online – a meaningful and memorable experience. Our team starts planning months ahead of time, and when the big day arrives it’s all hands on-deck to make sure we offer the best possible experience.”
Anglers attending Customer Appreciation Day are drawn into the St. Croix family and experience something no other rod manufacturer offers on such a personal level. This year’s event will include multiple opportunities to learn about the rod-building process, informative fishing seminars from St. Croix pros, casting demonstrations, a free lunch provided by Johnsonville, ample prize drawings, and – of course – a variety of special, one-day-only deals on St. Croix rods, combos, and apparel, which are available to both in-person and online participants.
“This is our first full year after the launch of our SEVIIN Reels and our reinvigorated St. Croix Fly brands,” adds Simpkins. “So, this year, we’re able to offer CAD attendees even more unique experiences and opportunities. We’ll have a dedicated SEVIIN tent where we can show visiting anglers some of the interesting tests we put the reels through in order to ensure reliability and deliver a worry-free fishing experience. We’ll also have SEVIIN reels spooled up and ready to go at the casting pond so anglers can experience them firsthand. On the fly side, our team is incredibly excited to show anglers the results of the work and energy we’ve put into our new, premium EVOS fly rods, along with another new model we’ll be releasing about the same time as CAD. We’re using a brand-new technology in these rods and can’t wait to get anglers out on the casting pond to let them experience why these rods are so special.”
2024 St. Croix Customer Appreciation Day Activities
Rod Building Tent – Learn the process of how St. Croix Rods are handcrafted. Multiple stations will be set up for you to see an abbreviated example of how our rods are built. Included in this will be a live rod winding demonstration.
SEVIIN Tent – See how we engineer and test our new casting and spinning reels. We put them through more than 15 grueling tests with thousands of reps to make sure your time on the water is fun and productive!
Fishing Seminars – Gain fishing knowledge and up your game on the water. We have a full day of informative presentations – in person and live streamed – presented by St. Croix and SEVIIN Pro Staff. Learn from these elite anglers and have fun doing it. The current schedule includes seminars from Tony Roach, Brian “Bro” Brosdahl, and Mike Yauk, as well as an in-depth musky seminar delivered by a panel on the Northwoods’ top musky anglers. More seminars and a detailed schedule will be announced soon at stcroixrods.com.
Deals Galore at the St. Croix Factory Store – CAD attendees and virtual participants will enjoy exceptional one-day-only deals on a huge selection of various St. Croix B-stock rods, retired rods, special combos, gear, and limited-edition St. Croix CAD apparel. In addition to regular items, all CAD deals and special offers will be available online at stcroixrodfactorystore.com the day of the event.
Partner Vendors
While the people of St. Croix and SEVIIN host CAD, the event is enriched by the presence and participation of a variety of other great companies from within the fishing industry, including Rapala, Daiwa, Stormy Kromer, Walleye-X, and others.
Hourly Giveaways
Anglers attending CAD in-person can register for free, hourly giveaways of a variety of valuable prize packages that roll along all day long.
Improve Your Casting – Spincasting, spinning, baitcasting, or even fly casting, learn the proper technique from our team members with the latest St. Croix rods and SEVIIN reels at the onsite casting pond.
Free Johnsonville Lunch – We’re always working to deliver our anglers the upper hand, and a full stomach! Our friends from Johnsonville will be here to help celebrate our anglers with premium Johnsonville brats and hot dogs!
Free Line Winding – Anglers who pick up a deal on a combo or a reel at CAD can have the reel spooled with line at no cost (available to in-person CAD attendees only).
Meet the St. Croix and SEVIIN Teams – At least 32 sets of hands come in contact with a St. Croix rod before it ever reaches yours, and there are a whole lot more that help design them and bring them to market. Meet the St. Croix and SEVIIN team members who share a passion for crafting the “Best Rods on Earth,” as well as a passion for fishing that matches your own. They talk a lot about the what’s and how’s of making rods and reels, but most of them really just want to talk about fishing and swap stories!
Plan Your Trip and Stay Up to Date
Anglers can learn more and stay up to date with St. Croix’s 2024 Customer Appreciation Day event by following St. Croix on Facebook and Instagram, or by checking back regularly at stcroixrods.com.
For all kinds of great ideas, information, and assistance in planning your travel to Northern Wisconsin, visit the Travel Wisconsin website.
About St. Croix Rod
Headquartered in Park Falls, Wisconsin, St. Croix has been proudly crafting the “Best Rods on Earth” for over 75 years. Combining state-of-the-art manufacturing processes with skilled craftsmanship, St. Croix is the only major producer to still build rods entirely from design through manufacturing. The company remains family-owned and operates duplicate manufacturing facilities in Park Falls and Fresnillo, Mexico. With popular trademarked series such as Legend®, Legend Xtreme®, Avid®, Premier®, Imperial®, Triumph® and Mojo, St. Croix is revered by all types of anglers from around the world.
Tarpon on poppers! Some exciting mangrove action in “The Holy Well.”
From Dorsal Outdoors:
“For 15 years, a group of friends have battled budgets, bad timing, and bad luck. From weathering hurricanes, to being marooned on an uninhabited island, they’ve seen it all. Well, except for good fishing.
But then, they joined forces with a sage of flats fishing, Nick Denbow, who just might have the key to unlock their fishing misery. All signs point to the ‘Holy Well.’
What follows is an insane combination of clear water tarpon fishing that crecendos into mayhem when an ‘angry frog’ popper is tied on to the hook.
Hold on your seat.”
To check out more from Dorsal Outdoors, please click here.
The new rig hits the trails! With a newly tricked out van, Will Phelps heads out for a fly fishing and snowboarding advanture.
From Will Phelps:
“In the previous video, I picked up my four-wheel-drive converted van from Ujoint Colorado. We put it to the test, and this thing is an absolute beast. Now, it is time to take the four-wheel drive van on its first big fishing and snowboarding adventure across The West from Colorado to Oregon, where we will drop it off for the interior build with Axis vehicles.”
To check out more from Will Phelps, please click here.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming is a world-renowned fly fishing destination that is known for cutthroat trout, spectacular scenery, and much more. In this episode, Colin Ah of Westbank Anglers breaks down this destination.
To learn more about Westbank Anglers, please click here.
The Venturing Angler Podcast: Fly Fishing Jackson Hole with Colin Ah
A team from Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures recently embarked on a big trip to Chile and got some great video footage while on the trip. This is part one.
From Yellow Dog Flyfishing:
“Pablo Neruda once described Chile as a country ‘invented by a poet.’ Spanning over 2,880 miles along South America’s western coast, Chile offers a breathtaking range of landscapes, from the arid Atacama Desert to the majestic Torres del Paine National Park and the rugged beauty of Tierra del Fuego. With one-third of its territory covered by the Andes, Chile’s natural wonders are often likened to the US Pacific Northwest. Since the 1980s, Chile has emerged as a top destination for freshwater fly fishing, making it a must-visit for trout anglers worldwide.
In Part 1 of this series, Yellow Dog’s Jack Porter and cinematographer Chris Patterson travel to Eleven Experience’s Martin Pescador Lodge. Martin Pescador Lodge offers anglers a diverse fishing experience with access to twelve rivers, eight lakes, and numerous streams teeming with rainbow and brown trout, and occasionally salmon or sea-run brown trout.”
To check out more from Yellow Dog Flyfishing, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today the U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act (H.R. 6492), which received applause from Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) for addressing priority issues.
Led by the House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Ranking Member Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ), the EXPLORE Act was passed by voice vote under suspension of the rules. BHA has supported this legislative package which would provide important benefits for hunters and anglers by modernizing the management of our public lands and waters and establishing greater access.
“By passing the EXPLORE Act, the House of Representatives has demonstrated the overwhelming support across the United States for improving outdoor recreation opportunities. This comprehensive legislation will modernize outdoor recreation management, make our public lands and waters more accessible, and provide significant benefits for hunters and anglers as we pursue our sporting traditions,” said Kaden McArthur, BHA’s Government Relations Manager. “We thank Chairman Westerman and Ranking Member Grijalva for their bipartisan leadership on the EXPLORE Act and encourage the Senate to act swiftly to send this legislation to the President’s desk.”
The EXPLORE Act would make changes to outdoor recreation management that benefit our public lands, waters, and wildlife, in addition to expanding access and opportunity. Provisions supported by hunters and anglers include:
- Expediting and simplifying permitting for accessing public lands and waters, which would reduce costs, wait times, and red tape by creating a uniform permitting process while also eliminating fees and permits for small groups filming on public lands.
- Improving outdoor recreation data and infrastructure, including updating vehicle-use maps on public lands within five years, and requiring their continued updates within twenty years.
- Creating feeless public shooting ranges in each BLM district or national forest, offering more opportunities for individuals to prepare for hunting seasons. In addition to establishing appropriate and accessible facilities for safe shooting, this would help to consolidate recreational shooting taking place on our public lands and resulting litter.
- Authorizing the donation of hides, horns, and antlers harvested from wildlife management activities within the National Park System to the hunter. This would avoid the waste of wildlife and fully respect harvested animals.
- Establishing a grant program for the inspection and decontamination of watercraft to avoid the spread of aquatic invasive species, while allowing federal agencies to carry out those activities.
Substantially similar legislation led by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chairman Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Ranking Member John Barrasso (R-WY), the America’s Outdoor Recreation Act (S. 873), was unanimously reported by the committee in May 2023.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.
https://www.backcountryhunters.org
From Fly Fusion:
CRANBROOK, BC – Fly Fusion magazine, in partnership with the International Fly Fishing Film Festival, the world’s leading fly-fishing film event, has launched the 5th annual Stimmies Awards.
“The world of fly-fishing films and the quality of the stories being told is expanding, said Chris Bird, Fly Fusion’s Editorial Director. “The role of The Stimmies Awards is to recognize top emerging and professional filmmakers and encourage creative films that celebrate story and the fly-fishing community.”
Beginning April 1, filmmakers have had the opportunity to submit their projects into one of two categories – short and feature-length film – via the award’s submission platform at: filmfreeway.com/stimmies. Entries will be accepted until May 31.
“The top films will be selected by committee and then will participate in a month long public vote, supported by a massive social and web campaign, reaching thousands of voting anglers around the world.” said Bird.
The winning film will take home bragging rights, a prize package, and will be considered for inclusion as an Official Selection of the 2025 International Fly Fishing Film Festival.
Competition is open to all fly-fishing films. The winning film will be announced the first week of July, he concluded.
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For additional information contact:
Kim Carruthers
info@flyfusionmag.com
Jackson Hole, Wyoming is a world-renowned fly fishing destination that is known for cutthroat trout, spectacular scenery, and much more. In this episode, Colin Ah of Westbank Anglers breaks down this destination.
To learn more about Westbank Anglers, please click here.
And to check out the podcast, please click below or download our podcast on iTunes, Soundcloud, or Spotify:
Jackson Hole, Wyoming is a world-renowned fly fishing destination that is known for cutthroat trout, spectacular scenery, and much more. In this episode, Colin Ah of Westbank Anglers breaks down this destination.
Giant trevally and more on bamboo in a video from Thomas & Thomas!
From Thomas & Thomas:
“Ambassador Nick Bowles @oceanactivenick takes Thomas and Thomas bamboo rods to the next level traveling across the globe seeking GT, Atlantic Salmon and Tarpon!”
To check out more from Thomas & Thomas, please click here.
Fly fishing Lapland, Sweden is the focus of a new film from HOOKÉ.
From HOOKÉ:
“We begin our long journey with an expedition in the Ungava Bay at Inukshuk Lodge, where isolation and true wilderness come together. Between the biggest tides in the world and the ever-changing weather, we try to catch the biggest Arctic Char we can find! We pursue our journey to Kiruna in Swedish Lapland. Just like Northern Quebec, Northern Sweden is a wild area where we can find big and strong fish. From Helicopter expeditions to rafting down big rapids and driving hundreds of kilometers, the local fisherman of Kiruna bring us on a quest to find big brown trout, trophy grayling and the majestic Baltic Salmon in some of the most remote places you can find.”
To check out more from HOOKÉ, please click here.
Fly fishing for striped bass in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is the focus of an old episode of Sportsman’s Journal that is now available to watch in full online.
From Mill House:
“Striper fishing in Cape Cod with Capt. Chris Benson.
DISCLAIMER: These shows were shot in the 90’s and display some improper fish handling techniques that are very frowned upon today. I wish I knew back then what I know now! Also, some of the shows have static and bad quality parts and pieces. It is what it is!”
To check out more from Mill House, please click here.
In Preserving Paradise — a film from Frogwater Productions — anglers offer their perspectives on the rivers of the Jefferson River Basin.
From Frogwater Productions:
“The long-term health of one of the world’s best trout fisheries (Jefferson River Basin – which includes the Big Hole, Beaverhead, Jefferson, and Ruby Rivers) is in question according to the population data collected annually by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. Unfortunately, the current reality, most impactful variables and eventual solutions are unclear and complex. While in-stream flows and water temperatures are foundational to trout health and survival, other factors such as water quality, nutrient pollution, dissolved oxygen, fungal infections and fishing pressure may also be playing some role in affecting the health of these trout.
Despite trout population data hitting historic lows, the actual fishing this past year was quite good with a lot of larger fish being caught. It’s also important to note that the trout population data in the upper Beaverhead river is within a relative average range.
While collaboration and effective communication across stakeholders and government agencies is absolutely imperative for accurately diagnosing and then managing this issue, there are real lives and livelihoods at stake as many locals are closely connected to and dependent on this world renowned fishery.
It’s easy for visiting anglers to decide to avoid this area due to the concerning data, but again, the reality is more complex. The local economies rely heavily on fishing tourism and it’s highly unlikely that angling pressure alone is responsible for these trout numbers. It’s still a great time to visit these Montana Fisheries, but it’s imperative to minimize our angling impact on the trout by using barbless hooks, stop fishing when water temps are reaching unhealthy levels, keep fish wet and in the water as much as possible, avoid fishing to actively spawning fish, use rubber nets, etc.
Preserving Paradise is a short film/mini-doc that shares some (but certainly NOT ALL) of the voices and perspectives of local stakeholders as they reflect on the current state of the river and actions that have been taken thus far.”
To check out more from Frogwater Productions, please click here.
The guide life in the Seychelles! Some old footage resurfaces for a fun video.
From The Mission:
“Fly fishing guides in remote destinations experience pressures and challenges a little different to your average First World working schlub. For all intents and purposes, they are marooned, lost for months on end to the modern world and the social lives they left behind. The following is a behind-the-scenes look at paradise on Farquhar in the Seychelles over the 2013/2014 seasons. Warning: Only a modicum of fishing follows.
Read the expanded stories of the guides’ experiences during their time on Farquhar in the full article “Lost Boys”, from issue 43 of The Mission – https://themissionflymag.com/magazine…“
To check out more from The Mission, please click here.
The giant trout of Jurassic Lake in Argentina are the focus of a great video from The Mission.
From The Mission:
“When you are used to catching normal-sized trout in normal places, visiting Jurassic Lake in Patagonia (full story in issue 20 of The Mission), feels like a journey into a parallel world. Our minds were blown away. Massive fish, in their hundreds, caught on dry flies, nymphs, streamers, deerhair mice and whatever else we threw at them. This is the film of that trip.”
To check out more from The Mission, please click here.
Taking on trout in Colorado in a new video from Flycraft!
From Flycraft:
“In this episode of Tales From The Craft, we join Kevin on his first solo filming trip with Flycraft. We venture up into Colorado to meet with Landon Mayer and the team from Riversmith.”
To check out more from Flycraft USA, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the leading voice for the conservation of public lands, waters, and wildlife, today Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) applauded the bipartisan introduction of the North American Wetland Conservation Extension Act (S. 4048) in the United States Senate.
Introduced by Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA), this legislation would reauthorize the North American Wetland Conservation Act (NAWCA), continuing one of our nation’s most successful conservation programs through fiscal year 2028. It would also increase authorized funding for NAWCA from $60 million to $65 million annually.
“One of the most celebrated conservation programs in modern history, the North American Wetlands Conservation Act, or NAWCA, is responsible for the protection of more than 30 million acres of wetlands. NAWCA has produced demonstrable, on-the-ground results for conservation of waterfowl habitat, which, in turn, has contributed to population increases for this particular group of birds in contrast to the decline of all other groups in the last half century,” said Patrick Berry, BHA President and CEO. “We want to thank Sen. Heinrich and Sen. Kennedy for their recognition of the NAWCA’s importance, and leadership to extend and increase funding for the program through the North American Wetland Conservation Extension Act.”
Original cosponsors of the legislation include Sens. Chris Coons (D-DE), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Susan Collins (R-ME), Ben Cardin (D-MD), John Boozman (R-AR), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Tina Smith (D-MN), Jon Tester (D-MT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD).
The introduction of this legislation follows closely behind the president’s fiscal year 2025 budget, which included a significantly reduced funding request for NAWCA of $33 million. This amount is $16 million less than the previous amount appropriated by Congress and a 34% decrease from the president’s request for the previous fiscal year.
In addition to calling for the reauthorization of NAWCA and an increase of available funding, BHA further urges Congress to appropriate the current authorized level of funding, above and beyond the president’s budget request. NAWCA is an invaluable program for conserving waterfowl habitat, and these proposed cuts disregard the value of wetlands for fish and wildlife across North America.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.
Thomas Plank
https://www.backcountryhunters.org/
Anglers take on guitarfish (on fly) in HOUDINI — a new film from Matt Kennedy and The Mission.
From The Mission:
“Half-shark, half-stingray, the lesser guitarfish (AKA sandsharks/ sandies), are a gem of South Africa’s West Coast, and the ambush-fly angler’s dream come true. In this latest film Houdini by The Mission’s Matt Kennedy, anglers Jimmy Eagleton and Leonard Flemming explore three different habitats along the West Coast, showing just how tricky fly fishing for sandsharks can be, and just how experienced they are in catching them.”
To check out more from The Mission, please click here.
From NRS:
Moscow, Idaho — Northwest River Supplies (NRS), the world’s leading supplier of equipment and apparel for water recreation, safety and rescue, announces the expansion of its fishing raft line-up with the introduction of the all-new Approach Fishing Series and the upgraded Slipstream Fishing Series. Building on the release of the award-winning Slipstream in 2022, NRS continues to evolve its line-up of boats purpose-built for adventure anglers. Engineered for maximum performance and durability, NRS’s latest fishing raft models feature innovative construction materials and advanced design elements, ensuring unmatched stability, maneuverability and safety on the water—guaranteed to enhance the adventure angler’s experience.
“The Approach Series and the enhanced Slipstream Series embody our relentless pursuit of excellence in outdoor gear. Building on the excitement and success of the Slipstream, we listened to angler feedback; adjusting dimensions and expanding on the most sought-after features. And the Approach is a natural evolution—making the adventure angling experience even more accessible,” said Mark Deming, NRS Chief Marketing Officer. “We’re excited to introduce these cutting-edge products, empowering anglers to explore new waters and create unforgettable experiences on the river.”
The Approach Fishing Series revolutionizes lightweight fishing crafts, offering anglers unparalleled access to remote waters with its easy-transport design. Crafted with smaller tubes and a robust drop-stitch insert floor, Approach rafts excel in navigating skinny water, providing anglers access to previously unreachable fishing grounds. A lightweight design makes it easy to transport in truck beds or on roof racks, and can easily be carried by two people, giving anglers the freedom to take off on adventure whenever they want, to wherever they want.The adjustable, customizable frame is easily configured for what the day demands, from full-luxury fishing to an ultralight format for light-and-fast missions. It includes integrated bi-directional rod holders and quick-release anchor system. Built with welded PVC construction and featuring slip-resistant foam protection, these rafts ensure anglers stay secure while standing. The Approach Series is available in two sizes—Approach 100 and Approach 120—and redefines the limits of where a boat can take you.
The award-winning Slipstream Fishing Series receives an upgrade, further solidifying its status as the go-to choice for ruggedness and versatility. With enhancements aimed at boosting low water drafting, the updated models feature increased drop-stitch floor volume, an increased thickness from 4 inches to 6 inches, and a change from a pocket floor to insert floor. Molded thigh hooks with cup holders and storage tray improve angler stability, comfort and safety, and the streamlined smooth single-panel bow and stern transition areas provide unmatched tracking performance. Package includes integrated rod holders and quick-release anchor system. Available in three sizes—Slipstream 106, Slipstream 129 and Slipstream 142—and a lighter design, these rafts provide ample space and durability for anglers embarking on any excursion.
About NRS
100% employee-owned, NRS is the world’s leading supplier of equipment and apparel for water recreation, safety and rescue. Founded in 1972 with a vision to create a better kind of company, NRS is dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of its customers, employees and community. For more information on NRS, visit www.nrs.com, email the company at service@nrs.com or call 877.677.4327.
From Patagonia:
“There’s nothing on earth like connecting with a wild fish. Chasing that feeling—and those fish—keeps us inspired, inspires our gear and brings us together. It’s why we support and celebrate the tireless anglers and groups fighting to protect the wild fish and clean water we love.
Over the last five years, we’ve donated more than $6 million to groups defending wild fish and clean water. We’ll continue to support and celebrate the boots-on-the-ground heroes working on river cleanups, defending access, doing the science and acting as a first-line defense against polluters. We’ll pull together with the advocates — brave souls willing to sit through board meetings, endure negotiations and design for a future that includes wild fish and clean water. Our donations — whether in dollars, gear or sweat — make their jobs easier. Meanwhile, our editorial work will continue to shine a light on their efforts.
We’ll keep showing up for our community. We’re planning more opportunities that bring us together. Look for more wader repair events, films, readings and river cleanups.
We’re also bolstering our efforts to oppose three of the biggest enemies of an abundant, fishable future — dams, net pens and hatchery programs. We’re focused on spreading the truth about methane-spewing, salmon-killing dams. On the Elwha — and now the Klamath River — we’re seeing what community-led activism can accomplish. When dams come down, we bring back our fish, unite communities and repair our climate. Now it’s time to apply what we’ve learned to the four deadbeat dams on the Lower Snake River.
We’ll continue to fight against outdated, expensive, dysfunctional hatcheries — a band-aid solution to an urgent problem. Hatchery fish compete against wild fish, weaken gene pools and are recklessly inefficient. The five billion hatchery fish released every year haven’t stopped the decline of salmon. They’ve made the problem worse.
Our actions against the pollution factories known as open net-pen salmon farms persists because they are a disaster for migrating wild fish, infecting them with lice and disease while producing a product that’s drugged, diseased and dyed pink.
Advocating for access remains a priority because it ensures river protection and aids the democratization of our sport. It teams with our efforts to facilitate inclusion because we believe in equity, justice and community. We’re dedicated to creating paths for all to join us on the water.
If we’ve learned anything after more than four decades building fly fishing equipment, it’s that the gear we produce, the sport we love and our fly fishing community are all deeply connected. Protecting those connections makes our work matter.”
To learn more, please click here.
A new video from CBS Mornings takes on efforts to restore the Florida Everglades.
From CBS Mornings:
“What’s been called the largest restoration project in human history is underway in Florida’s Everglades. Billions of dollars are being spent to restore millions of acres. Jeff Glor reports on the massive effort, which just years ago seemed like a pipe dream.”
To check out more from CBS Mornings, please click here.
Northern California is home to some of the best fly fishing in the world. From spring creeks to salmon and steelhead rivers, this region seemingly has it all. The Fly Shop has just released their annual planner for this region that covers a variety of waters and destinations in that region.
To check out the new regional planner from The Fly Shop, please click here.
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Disclosure: The Fly Shop is in a professional relationship with the The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the leading voice for the conservation of public lands, waters, and wildlife, today Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) cheered the bipartisan introduction of the Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act (H.R. 7779) in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Introduced by Reps. Celeste Maloy (R-UT) and Mary Peltola (D-AK), the bill would authorize a pilot program that allows a limited number of permits for ‘Good Samaritans’ to carry out remediation projects on abandoned mine sites. These permits would allow state agencies, local governments, and nonprofits to clean up abandoned hardrock mine sites without assuming future liability. Currently, only the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has the authority to treat discharged mine water from abandoned mine sites; ‘Good Samaritans’ would be permanently liable for the site and any remaining pollution if they cleaned up any mine waste.
“We thank Congresswoman Maloy and Congresswoman Peltola for their introduction of the Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act, which would leverage the resources of qualified private entities to clean up abandoned hardrock mine sites, the largest source of pollution on our public lands and waters,” said Patrick Berry, BHA president and CEO. “By addressing liabilities that have long tied the hands of would-be ‘Good Samaritans’ we can restore degraded watersheds and riparian habitat to enhance opportunities for hunters and anglers.”
Original cosponsors of the legislation include Reps. Russ Fulcher (R-ID), Susie Lee (D-NV), Blake Moore (R-UT), Jim Costa (D-CA), and John Curtis (R-UT).
An estimated 33,000 abandoned hardrock mines sites actively contaminate our rivers and streams. An estimated 40% of Western headwaters are polluted by those mines. Hunters and anglers have long advocated for ‘Good Samaritan’ legislation to address acid mine drainage that compromises the health of public lands and waters and fish and wildlife populations. Giving willing entities the ability to restore these sites will help address the remediation of many of the thousands of smaller abandoned mines that are not a priority for the EPA.
BHA, along with other hunting and angling groups, has repeatedly urged Congress to pass commonsense legislation that would provide a path forward for ‘Good Samaritan’ entities to tackle the cleanup of these sites on public lands without assuming liabilities. Companion legislation in the Senate led by Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Sen. Jim Risch (R-ID) has been sponsored/cosponsored by 34 members, more than a third of the Senate. It was advanced by the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee in January following a unanimous vote.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.
https://www.backcountryhunters.org/
In Undammed — a new film from Patagonia — an activist is followed as she works to free the Klamath River from the four dams that have condemned this river for generations.
From Patagonia:
“After witnessing a massive fish kill on her ancestral home waters, Yurok tribal attorney Amy Bowers Cordalis dedicated her life to reversing the generations-long destruction wrought by the Klamath River dams. Undammed follows her journey to free the Klamath, from testifying before Congress to passing down fishing traditions within her young family. Now that the Klamath dams are finally coming down, she remains confident that the future of her tribe is bright. ‘It’s not a test,’ Bowers Cordalis says of the largest dam-removal project in US history. “It will work.” Help restore the Klamath River by supporting Ridges to Riffles Indigenous Conservation Group.”
To check out more from Patagonia, please click here.
Silver Kings heads to Texas for the Borracho Pescador event in a new episode.
From Silver Kings:
“Clay ‘Flounder’ Guess & Texan Cliff Wright host Capt. Jared Raskob on a charity redfish event the ‘Borracho Pescador’ in Texas. Special BTT feature ‘Project Permit’ follows.”
To check out more from Silver Kings, please click here.
From Patagonia:
VENTURA, Calif. — New science on the four Lower Snake River dams is in and it disproves claims that hydropower is clean energy.
A new report finds these dams are not a source of green, zero-carbon energy, but rather a major source of the heat-trapping greenhouse gases causing the climate crisis. Compounding the problem, dams submerge and destroy natural carbon sinks that once grew under their reservoirs.
For decades, politicians and various industry leaders have defended damming rivers by pointing to the climate benefits of allegedly clean hydropower. The new report, titled “Estimate of Greenhouse Gas Emissions for the Lower Snake River Dams and Reservoirs using the All-Res Modeling Tool,” estimates the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions, including methane, from the Lower Snake River dams, reservoirs and their hydropower systems. The report finds the four dams in Washington are responsible for emitting approximately 1,800,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent per year—nearly 10,000 railcars’ worth of coal burned.
“Contrary to popular belief, hydropower is not a carbon-neutral source of energy,” said Mark Easter, chief scientist for Tell The Dam Truth and a former senior research associate at Colorado State University’s Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory. “The concept of how methane gets produced by dams and reservoirs is not widely understood. And that’s the source of the problem here—the Lower Snake River dams and reservoirs are giant methane factories, and the science proves it.”
Easter and Tell The Dam Truth, a nonprofit with a goal of exposing dams as climate catastrophes, used the All-Res Modeling Tool, which estimates emissions using a lifecycle analysis framework and includes the known greenhouse gas emissions emitted by dams and reservoirs through their entire lifespan. Patagonia’s Holdfast Collective provided financial support to develop the All-Res tool, and Patagonia has provided $1.5 million in grant funding to more than 15 grassroots environmental nonprofits working on Snake River dam removal since 2000. Patagonia has also made a feature-length film about dams, DamNation, and is currently running a campaign to raise awareness and spark action on these issues.
Dams and the reservoirs behind them emit methane and other potent greenhouse gases when artificially trapped organic material decomposes underwater. The research shows the dams on the Lower Snake River produce the equivalent carbon emissions of burning 2 billion pounds of coal annually. Dams also destroy carbon-capturing habitats, ruin life-sustaining fisheries and starve coastal communities of the sand and rocks critical to defending against rising seas.
Patagonia, along with a coalition of policymakers, tribal leaders, wild river advocates, anglers and others, is advocating a proven solution: Removing the Lower Snake River dams. In December, the Biden administration announced a 10-year partnership with Tribes and states to restore wild salmon and expand clean-energy production in the Columbia River Basin in the Pacific Northwest.
“Only by removing these dams, can we begin to restore the magnificent Columbia and Snake River watershed, save numerous species from extinction, honor treaty rights and build climate resiliency,” said Patagonia CEO Ryan Gellert. “We applaud investments in true clean- energy solutions and programs that recover wild, self-sustaining fish populations that Tribes and other local communities depend on. We’re hopeful Congress will finally recognize that hydropower harms ecosystems and the climate, and that they must authorize removing the dams to free the Snake River.”
From Puerto Rico to Iceland to Norway and more, a new issue of In the Loop Magazine is now live online and is packed with outstanding destination content from around the globe. Tons of great photos stand out in another great issue, and great gear content makes for icing on the cake.
To check out the new issue of In the Loop, please click here.
A new film coming soon from Patagonia follows activists in their efforts to free the Klamath River from the four dams that have condemned this river for generations. Check out the trailer from Undammed in the video above.
To check out more from Patagonia, please click here.
In a new episode of Silver Kings, Paula Shearer heads to Florida to take on tarpon.
From Silver Kings:
“Capt. Jared Raskob is joined by Canadian Fly Fishing Guide Paula Shearer on a keys quest for a big tarpon.”
To check out more from Silver Kings, please click here.
Whether you want to keep your waders alive or you are in need of an on-the-water repair, knowing how to repair your own waders can save a trip, waders, and money. A video from Patagonia breaks down how to repair your waders.
To check out more from Patagonia, please click here.
From Costa:
JUPITER, Fla. (Mar. 14, 2024) – Costa Sunglasses, manufacturer of the first color-enhancing all-polarized glass sunglass lens, announces today the revitalization of one of its most beloved frames, Grand Catalina. A true brand icon initially introduced in the 80s, Grand Catalina’s original retro design pays homage to the brand’s 40 year legacy on the water, while its updated frame and lens technology represent the cutting-edge innovation Costa is known for today. Whether on land or at sea, Grand Catalina is the perfect blend of style, performance and versatility.
Sporting the beloved heritage aviator shape and removable side shields that led to its initial fame, Grand Catalina’s updated construction embodies the DNA of Costa’s Pathfinder Series: sweat management channels, vented adjustable nose pads, removable side shields (offering two different looks) and seamless surfacing. This retro-inspired, hybrid frame returns to the age of modern performance, making it a must-have for those who demand bold style and best-in-class functionality.
For decades, Grand Catalina has been widely recognized for adorning the faces of angling legends and Costa Pros, Flip Pallot, Jose Wejebe, and more.
“I remember it like it was yesterday, heading out for a day on the water, the original Grand Catalina in tow. They were the pinnacle of purpose built eyewear then, and with the passion and technology infused in them many moons later, they are today,” said Costa’s longest tenured Pro Flip Pallot. “Costa has always been on the forefront of leading by example, whether it’s protecting the waters we call home or crafting world class products, and the new iteration of the Grand Catalina frames is certainly no different.”
Costa’s commitment to quality and innovation shines through in this refined frame, made from Costa’s proprietary bio-resin. Designed with both style and performance in mind, Grand Catalina is available in a range of frame colors and lens options, including Costa’s latest 580G Gold Mirror Lens.
MSRP for Grand Catalina starts at $204. To see Costa’s complete collection of performance, lifestyle and optical frames, and learn more about its commitment to protecting the waters it calls home, visit costasunglasses.com.
There’s been a bit of excitement around the new Black Hole Duffels from Patagonia. Now you can get a better look at these popular travel bags through a new video.
From Patagonia:
“Our Black Hole® Duffels deliver the same legendary performance you expect, but with a huge step toward impact reduction with 100% recycled body fabric, lining and webbing, and now a pioneering recycled TPU-film laminate with a sleek matte finish. Made in a Fair Trade Certified factory.”
To learn more about the new Black Hole Duffels from Patagonia, please click here.
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Disclosure: Patagonia is in a professional relationship with the The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
Winter is a great time to find quiet on the water. In “Winter Quiet,” the beauty and commitment of winter trout fishing are captured.
From Frogwater Productions:
“While many anglers spend the colder winter months dreaming of warmer weather, summer hatches and more comfortable fishing conditions, fishing during the rougher winter season offers anglers a different experience. While the weather can be brutal, trout metabolism (and feeding behavior) slows down and ice can get in the way, there’s a degree of solitude that’s hard to find during the more pleasant seasons. For many years I’ve enjoyed the calm and quiet experience of going out alone and hunting a few trout during a snowy winter day.
BE SURE TO TURN YOUR VOLUME UP on this one! This short film/video was inspired by Bounce which was the first film in the 2019 Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T).”
To check out more from Frogwater Productions, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the leading voice for the conservation of public lands, waters, and wildlife, today Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) responded to the release of the Biden administration’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2025. This proposed budget would increase funding for federal land management agencies, which saw significant cuts in the fiscal year 2024 budget adopted on March 9.
“On the heels of an overdue federal budget that implemented stinging cuts to our federal land management agencies, we welcome the president’s budget for the coming year. As hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts we rely upon well stewarded public lands to enjoy our heritage,” said Patrick Berry, BHA President and CEO. “We appreciate that the administration’s proposal would direct greatly needed resources to the management of our public lands and waters and urge Congress to follow suit.”
Here are what the numbers look like in comparison to enacted fiscal year 2024 levels:
- The Department of the Interior would receive a total of $17.8 billion, a 21% increase.
- The U.S. Forest Service would receive $2 billion for the National Forest System, a 7% increase.
- The Bureau of Land Management would receive $1.6 billion, a 14% increase. Included in those funds is a $29 million increase for the Wild Horse and Burro Management program. This funding is critical to addressing the rising costs of managing exponentially increasing populations of feral horses and burros on public lands that compete with native wildlife.
- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) would receive $1.7 billion, an 11% increase. Managed by the USFWS, the National Wildlife Refuge System would receive $602 million, a 14% increase. The Great American Outdoors Act, passed into law with applause from BHA in 2020 will provide an additional $95 million for deferred maintenance projects within the refuge system.
While this budget would increase funding for resource management agencies, it would also reduce funding for the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) to $33 million. This represents an $8 million reduction from current levels, and $17 million below the administration’s fiscal year 2024 budget. One of our nation’s most successful conservation programs, NAWCA has conserved more than 30 million acres through a competitive grant program that leverages public and private dollars. BHA has vocally supported the America’s Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act which would increase authorized funding for NAWCA to $65 million annually.
“We are deeply disappointed to see a strongly bipartisan and beloved program like NAWCA the target of a 24% budget cut,” continued Berry. “BHA will urge Congress to appropriate the fully authorized amount for NAWCA.”
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.
https://www.backcountryhunters.org/
A look back at a trip from a while back! In an old episode of Sportsman’s Journal, Andy Mill and Rufus Wakeman head to the Amazon to take on peacock bass.
From Mill House:
“Join Rufus Wakeman and I as we target some Peacock Bass in the Rio Negro River in Brazil.
DISCLAIMER: These shows were shot in the 90’s and display some improper fish handling techniques that are very frowned upon today. I wish I knew back then what I know now! Also, some of the shows have static and bad quality parts and pieces. It is what it is!”
To check out more from Mill House, please click here.
A number of years ago, Tributaries Digital Cinema released Tributaries — a film that took on the perspectives of three guides in different areas of the world. The full film is available to watch.
From Tributaries Digital Cinema:
“Fly fishing is a powerful current that unifies an even stronger worldwide community.
Tributaries is a journey to uncover the commonality among different cultures, people and water. It explores the contrasting experiences of three diverse guides — a Bahamian flats-drifter, a Patagonian trout bum and a Viking-blooded Icelander.
Watch three characters’ stories merge into one: a tribute to the world’s water.
Tributaries is a featured film in the 2014 F3T and 2014 Rise film festivals.
Full-length downloads are available at http://tributariesfilm.com and begin at $4. Get the latest updates on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
Directed by RC Cone Written by RC Cone and Zack Wheeler
Locations: The Bahamas, Iceland, Argentina
Starring: Prescott Smith, Siggi Haugur, Tuqui Visvarro”
To check out more from Tributaries Digital Cinema, please click here.
Gabon is a country on the Atlantic Coast of Central Africa that offers world class fly fishing for a variety of species, including tarpon. In SETTE CAMA, anglers take on these exciting African waters.
From African Waters:
“Gabriel Botha’s new film Sette Cama features Gabon’s premier fly fishing destination camp run by African Waters. This close to untouched, wild fishery is home to a spread of gamefish including tarpon, cubera snapper, Giant African threadfin, long fin jacks and more. These predators smash baitfish and baitfish imitations alike. Guides Teddy Coulter, Mike Dames and Oliver Santoro talk through the fishery (based on Africa’s second largest lagoon), the jungle and the action.
Filmed & Edited By Gabriel Botha
Presented by African Waters
Featuring: Teddy Coulter Mike Dames Oliver Santoro
Filmed in Sette Cama, Gabon.”
To check out more from African Waters, please click here.
Anglers head to Belize to pursue a grand slam and learn more about the ecosystem in an episode of Silver Kings.
From Silver Kings:
“The Blue Bonefish Lodge in San Pedro Belize serves as headquarters for Capt. Jared Raskob and special guest BTT’s Dr. Aaron Adams on a quest for a Belize Slam and to learn about bonefish interconnectivity.”
To check out more from Silver Kings, please click here.
A new issue of The Mission is now live online and features a hearty mix of great destination and gear content, profiles, and more. Among highlights, an article on the saltwater flats of Farquhar bring back to life a destination we haven’t heard much about in some time.
To check out the new issue of The Mission, please click here.
From Bonefish & Tarpon Trust:
Global Rescue, the exclusive provider of evacuation and travel insurance services for Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT), has renewed its support of BTT’s conservation programs as a Silver Corporate Partner.
“Global Rescue values BTT’s mission to conserve valuable resources and through our partnership, we’re collaborating to ensure members can enjoy them safely and with confidence,” said Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies, the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services to enterprises, governments and individuals.
Global Rescue has been a leader and pioneer in the travel services industry since its founding in 2004. The company provides the finest integrated medical, security, travel risk and crisis management services available anywhere, delivered by its teams of critical care paramedics, physicians, nurses and military special operations veterans. Global Rescue’s medical advisory and evacuation services include exclusive relationships with the Johns Hopkins Department of Emergency Medicine Division of Special Operations, Elite Medical Group and Partners HealthCare.
Anglers and outdoor enthusiasts can travel the globe with peace of mind, knowing that Global Rescue stands ready to provide comprehensive assistance ranging from travel support to medical consultations and emergency evacuations. Global Rescue’s dedicated medical and security teams have executed over 15,000 operations, serving individuals, families, and businesses worldwide. Its track record has made Global Rescue the chosen provider to government agencies and some of the world’s largest companies, universities, nonprofits and tour operators. Its mission is simple: be there when it matters most.
“Global Rescue is a trusted partner for BTT’s staff, who often travel to remote locations to conduct research that will inform conservation and resource management,” said Jim McDuffie, BTT’s President and CEO. “We appreciate Global Rescue’s renewed support of our mission and commitment to fisheries conservation.”
For more information on how Global Rescue can safeguard your adventures, visit www.globalrescue.com.
About Bonefish & Tarpon Trust
Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s mission is to conserve bonefish, tarpon and permit—the species, their habitats and the larger fisheries they comprise. As a science-based organization, BTT pursues this mission across the southeastern US, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea through research, conservation, education and advocacy.
About Global Rescue
Global Rescue is the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services to enterprises, governments and individuals. Founded in 2004, the Company provides best-in-class services that identify, monitor and respond to client medical and security crises. Global Rescue has provided medical and security support to its clients, including Fortune 500 companies, governments and academic institutions, during every globally significant crisis of the last decade. For more information, visit www.globalrescue.com.
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Disclosure: Global Rescue is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
A good day of tarpon fishing in Florida in an episode of Silver Kings!
From Silver Kings:
“Capt. Jared Raskob is joined by beloved keys guide Capt. Johnny Sheehan for a day of tarpon fishing in the backcountry on Johnny’s 60th birthday.”
To check out more from Silver Kings, please click here.
Dry fly action in Katmai National Park in Alaska with grizzly bears in view! A great Alaska fly fishing adventure is captured in a new video from Todd Moen and Catch Magazine.
From Catch Magazine:
“The latest from Catch Magazine features quintessential Alaskan dry fly fishing for rainbow trout on the famed Alaskan Brooks River and others within Katmai National Park.
Renown for its large brown bears, spawning sockeye and wild remote landscape, the Brooks River is a celebrity of Alaska. The opportunity to film here alongside feasting brown bears is one of Todd Moen’s dreams come true.
For this 21-minute production, Todd traveled with Royal Wolf Lodge manager Nate Morris as they explored the Brooks and American rivers in SW Alaska. In and out by floatplane from lakes to rivers, they dry fly fished the remote upper reaches of many untouched streams finding incredible insect hatches along the way only navigable by air.
A little different from most of his videos, this film includes some unique live narration, with Todd adding behind the scenes updates and in-action comments. He shares a bit of his own experience as he filmed this incredible Alaskan fishery.
Thanks to Nate Morris and the whole staff at Royal Wolf Lodge for making this possible. The excellent float plane navigation by Forrest Carpenter, Blake McIntosh and Danny Zito gave Todd, Nate and McKinley the opportunity to get in an create this video for Catch Magazine. Much gratitude for the generous support from R.L. Winston Fly Rods, Scientific Anglers and Skwala Fishing. For more information about the Brooks River, please check out Katmai National Park.”
To check out more from Catch Magazine, please click here.
Back in the day, Westbank Anglers was globally recognized for their travel program. Now they are revamped with new ownership and exciting things to come. In a new video, Mike Dawes and Colin Ah talk about the new Westbank.
From Westbank Anglers:
“We’ve been busy here at Westbank Anglers, and while some things remain the same, a lot has changed. We’re excited to kick off the relaunch of our YouTube channel with a video that highlights what we’ve been up to and the bright future of Westbank Anglers.”
To check out more from Westbank Anglers, please click here.
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Disclosure: Westbank Anglers is in a professional relationship with the The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
MONTROSE, Colo. (March 1, 2024) — The Scott Fly Rod Company is pleased to announce the introduction of their new Session series of fly rods. Session rods are high-performance hand-crafted fly rods that blend some of our most acclaimed design approaches with our latest materials and technologies.
Session rods bring together high line speed, exceptional loop control, and a light and lively feel in hand. They load easily, and they respond to subtle inputs from the angler.
“Anyone who has fished Scott freshwater rods in the recent past will immediately recognize our signature ‘fast with feel’ action in Session rods,” states Scott’s president, Jim Bartschi. “They share some of the design approaches and materials DNA with some of our most legendary rods. Incorporating some of our newest technologies give these rods their own unique feel and attributes.”
Session rods feature Scott’s Carbon Link epoxy resin system, multi-modulus lay ups, ARC2 reinforcement, ReAct, and Natural Finish blanks.
Session rods are handcrafted in Montrose, Colorado, using the finest components including milled aluminum reel seats with type 2 anodized and wood inserts, silicon nitride stripping guides, and super grade cork handles.
The Scott Session rods are available from 8 to 10 feet and in four-piece configuration for 3-weight to 8-weight lines. The Session fly rods cost $675 and are available in fly shops now.
Visit your nearest Scott-authorized fly shop to cast one or go online to www.scottflyrod.com to learn more.
About Scott Fly Rod Company:
Since its founding in 1974, the Scott Fly Rod Company has been dedicated to handcrafting the ultimate fishing tools from start to finish. Based in Montrose, Colorado, Scott has a history of innovation, dedication to performance, and a commitment to protecting the environment while also supporting local fly shops. For more information about Scott Rods, please visit theirwebsite and follow Scott onFacebook,Instagram, andX.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the leading voice for the conservation of our public lands, waters, and wildlife, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) continues to advocate for dependable and robust funding for state and tribal management of fish and wildlife. Today BHA lauded the introduction of the America’s Wildlife Habitat Conservation Act (H.R. 7408) by House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR).
This new legislation would offer benefits for the conservation of fish and wildlife habitat by authorizing up to $320 million annually for state and tribal fish and wildlife agencies over the next five years. BHA is encouraged by Chairman Westerman’s desire to conserve and restore habitat and hopes this development will advance negotiations to leverage resources for the management of at-risk species across the United States. The legislation falls short, however, of providing desperately needed long-term funding stability that meets the demonstrated level of demand for state and tribal conservation efforts.
“Hunters and anglers have provided the vast majority of conservation funding across the country through the excise taxes we pay on firearms and fishing and hunting equipment,” said Patrick Berry, BHA President and CEO. “The Pittman-Robertson and Dingell-Johnson grant programs have been the vehicle for these funding mechanisms, and BHA understands the necessity of expanding and dedicating funding for state and tribal agencies to manage at-risk species, and, in turn, habitat for all species including those pursued by hunters and anglers. We urge Congress to continue supporting these programs.”
As a part of the Alliance for America’s Fish & Wildlife, BHA is committed to advancing the bipartisan Recovering America’s Wildlife Act (RAWA) led by Sens. Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Thom Tillis (R-NC). RAWA presents the greatest legislative opportunity to recover at-risk species, as it would allocate nearly $1.4 billion of annual dedicated funding for state and tribal fish and wildlife management agencies. RAWA was passed by the House of Representatives with a bipartisan vote during the 117th Congress.
“We appreciate Chairman Westerman’s commitment to legislation that would improve the conservation of fish and wildlife. However, while the America’s Wildlife Habitat Conservation Act would focus on the importance of habitat, it stops short of dedicating the necessary funding for fish and wildlife management agencies that hunters and anglers have long sought through the advancement of the Recovering America’s Wildlife Act.” said Kaden McArthur, BHA Government Relations Manager.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.
https://www.backcountryhunters.org/
From RepYourWater:
ERIE, Colo. (Feb. 28, 2024) — RepYourWater is pleased to announce their Spring 2024 Collection. This new collection is available now and includes a variety of new designs on apparel and accessories that will appeal to anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.
“With a mix of colors, species, functions, and humor, our spring line is design-driven as always but more varied than in years past and possibly our best ever,” state RepYourWater co-founders Garrison and Corinne Doctor. “We can’t wait for you to check it out.”
Among the highlights of the Spring 2024 Collection, RepYourWater would like to spotlight the new designs that offer more selections to their Merino Blend Graphic Sun Shirts and Sun Hoodies, and the new Tailout Series Graphic Hats, which offer a new look for beautifully designed mesh back and full cloth hats.
Additionally, RepYourWater is excited to showcase new hat designs, shirts, gaiters, key rings, and more. From the Fly Til You Die design to new Patch Hats, there are many new styles and designs in this collection.
As always, every RepYourWater purchase supports their conservation partners.
To learn more about what’s new for spring 2024 from RepYourWater, please visit repyourwater.com.
About RepYourWater:
Founded by husband-and-wife team Garrison and Corinne Doctor, RepYourWater is an apparel company dedicated to providing uniquely designed, top-quality gear for anglers, hunters, and outdoorsmen and women while increasing support for local conservation and inspiring exploration.
For more information about RepYourWater, please visit their website and follow RepYourWater on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and X.
PHOTO CREDIT: Tompkins Family Archive; CAPTION: Douglas & Kristine Tompkins in ChileFrom Patagonia:
Published by Patagonia, an expansive new book offers a photographic journey through a former livestock ranch restored to become protected parklands
Dig more deeply into the conservation story of Douglas Tompkins, the co-founder of The North Face and Esprit, and Kristine McDivitt Tompkins, former CEO of Patagonia, told in the recent NatGeo documentary “Wild Life*,” directed by Oscar-winning filmmakers Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi (“Free Solo”).
Releasing April 17, 2024, Patagonia National Park: Chile (Patagonia, ISBN 9781952338069, paperback, 11 x 11)will provide an intimate exploration of one of the globally acclaimed conservation and rewilding initiatives led by their nonprofit Tompkins Conservation—the creation of Patagonia National Park*.
Highlighting breathtaking photographs and personal narratives from the individuals instrumental in the park’s restoration and establishment, Patagonia National Park: Chile pays homage to the rich history, awe-inspiring landscapes, and vibrant wildlife.
Photographer Linde Waidhofer captured the decades-long restoration journey, documenting the transformation of the land from livestock ranch to a world-class national park, where endemic species once again range wild. Essay contributions include notable figures such as Kris Tompkins, former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard, and others. Readers are invited to immerse themselves in a sanctuary dedicated primarily to its wild inhabitants and offering human visitors an opportunity to rediscover their connection with the land.
Patagonia National Park is located in the Aysen region of southern Chile along the Route of Parks, a 1,700-mile scenic route connecting 17 national parks and over 60 communities. The park’s central feature is a renowned east-west valley shaped by the Chacabuco River. Once a vital passage for nomadic peoples and wildlife through the Andes, this valley had experienced significant degradation due to historical livestock grazing.
These protected parklands were conceived for the purpose of ecological restoration—a strategy aimed at combatting climate change, revitalizing ecosystems, and safeguarding wildlife. They are a result of private philanthropy and forged partnerships by local, regional and national governments, especially the support of former President Bachelet, who worked closely with the Tompkins, recognizing that the benefits of a protected planet outweigh the costs.
“In Patagonia the battle for the future of Chile was fought,” says former President Bachelet in the prologue. “At Patagonia National Park we signed our commitment to change its destiny, closing the door to pollution, and opening the door to a sustainable future, in which the protected park can be an example to other developing countries, demonstrating that conservation doesn’t prevent development and well-being but actually secures these gains for generations to come.”
Inaugurated in 2018, Patagonia National Park is one of the fifteen national parks across Chile and Argentina that Tompkins Conservation helped create or expand, collectively spanning over 15 million acres. The Tompkins’ contribution is considered the most substantial philanthropic land donation by private individuals in the history of conservation.
The photographs and stories within the book are devoted to Patagonia National Park’s diverse landscapes, encompassing deciduous forests, glaciers, high alpine terrain, rivers, wetlands, and Patagonian steppes, as well as the park’s wild residents and the ongoing efforts to bring back healthy populations of fragile species, such as the highly endangered huemul deer, Darwin’s rhea, puma and Andean condor.
“National Parks are the jewels of a country where all are welcome,” says Kris. “Where citizens and foreigners alike can walk the hills, meander along the rivers, and watch Patagonia grasslands slowly, patiently, regenerate forward toward the powerful, plentiful territories they once were. Where visitors can camp beneath the forest canopy that offers shelter from the famous Patagonian winds. Where visitors can sit quietly, watching species interact with one another, and even see glimpses of certain animals—like pumas, ñandú [Darwin’s rhea], and Pampas cats—that are more elusive. This park is for native species to return to their rightful places, to roam the grasslands and forests just as they have for millennia. Our work is not yet complete. There are projects to be realized, species to be reintroduced, and ideas to flourish. Perhaps, after all, this will not be the last book we write.”
About the Contributors
Kristine McDivitt Tompkins is a former CEO of Patagonia and cofounder and president of Tompkins Conservation. She has been a key figure in the creation of Patagonia National Park in Chile and other conservation projects that have so far resulted in 15 million acres protected in new or expanded national parks in Chile and Argentina, in addition to 30 million acres of marine national parks in Argentina. She holds several global leadership positions in conservation, and formerly served as a Patron for Protected Areas for the UN Environment Programme. The organization she created in Chile with Douglas Tompkins is now an independent entity known as Rewilding Chile which continues the Tompkins legacy in the region.
Michelle Bachelet is the first woman to have been elected president of Chile, a position she held for two terms, 2006-2010 and 2014-2018. She studied medicine before entering politics and was Minister of Health and Minister of Defense during the presidency of Ricardo Lagos. An advocate for the rights of women and the oppressed, in 2018 she was appointed United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Yvon Chouinard is the founder and former owner of Patagonia. He is an itinerant adventurer, passionate activist, and iconoclastic businessman. He also cofounded the Fair Labor Association, 1% for the Planet, Textile Exchange, The Conservation Alliance, and the Sustainable Apparel Coalition. He is a surfer, mountain climber, gardener, and falconer, and he is particularly fond of tenkara fly fishing.
Linde Waidhofer is a landscape photographer in love with the pristine and mysterious beauty of wild, remote places. In her more than 40 years of professional photography, she has documented little-known landscapes from the deserts and mountains of the western U.S. to the Andes of Patagonia and has published 10 books of landscape photography. Linde is especially proud of her decades-long collaboration with Doug and Kris Tompkins, having contributed photos to their many conservation programs, including the Patagonia Sin Represas campaign to oppose destructive dams on Patagonia’s free-flowing rivers. She considers photographing the creation of Patagonia National Park one of her most exciting and important photographic adventures.
Patagonia National Park: Chileby Kristine McDivitt Tompkins, Michelle Bachelet, Yvon Chouinard; published by Patagonia
April 17, 2024, Paperback, ISBN 9781952338069
276 pages, 11×11 inches, full-color photography throughout
$50 U.S. Printed on 100% post-consumer waste paper
The crew from WildFly Productions head to Alaska for an exciting trip to fish the waters of the Last Frontier.
From WildFly Productions:
“We’ve always wondered what it would be like if we brought a subscriber with us on a trip. And what better place to do our inaugural subscriber trip than Alaska. In this film, we spend a week flying around in bush planes, chasing multiple species and hanging out with Grizzly bears. Strap in, grab some popcorn and enjoy this hour long film!”
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
Anglers head to the Gander River in Newfoundland, Canada, to take on sea-run trout and Atlantic salmon in a video from the New Fly Fisher.
From the New Fly Fisher:
“In this special video, Tim Flagler & Josh Jenkins join Colin McKeown to fly fish for sea-run trout and Atlantic salmon on the famous Gander River in beautiful eastern Newfoundland. Tim teaches us some flies to use and Josh tells us about single-handed Spey lines.”
To check out more from the New Fly Fisher, please click here.
A van trip from Montana to Idaho to take on steelhead is the focus of a new video from Will Phelps.
From Will Phelps:
“After canceling our trip to Louisiana, we drove the van to Idaho to chase steelhead. I recently caught the steelhead bug in Oregon and wanted to learn more about steelhead fishing. There’s no better way to learn about a new species than simply putting your time on the water. I savor the days when I feel like a beginner when there’s a whole new world of fishing to learn about.”
To check out more from Will Phelps, please click here.
From The Fly Shop:
It’s with great excitement and anticipation that we announce big changes at El Saltamontes Lodge, starting with the 2025 season. After 34 years of operating one of the all-time classic fly fishing lodges in Chile, Patagonian Jose Gorroño and family are turning over the reins to Dane and Chiara Emerson, owners of Espiritu Santo Bay (ESB) Lodge. ESB is the single most sought after flats fishing lodge in the world. The connection between the two families started in 2019 when Dane and Chiara hosted a week at El Saltamontes with friends, and has now blossomed into a partnership.
“Ever since I was a kid growing up in Michigan, devouring everything I could on fly fishing (including my annual catalog from The Fly Shop®), I’ve dreamed of fishing the storied waters of El Saltamontes. When the opportunity arose to host a week, Chiara and I jumped on it and we fell in love with the Gorroño family, their property, and the Nireguao Valley. Since then, we have been working with Jose and his family to set a foundation of excellence that will bring their legacy to a new level, and we couldn’t be more thrilled and honored to now take the reins – a dream come true for a trout fanatic like me. We will incorporate many ingredients from our ESB “recipe”, blending them into the new El Saltamontes program while at the same time honoring the heritage and traditions the Gorrono family have built over the last 30-plus years. With the Gorroño family’s blessing and full support, we will redefine Patagonia fly fishing and usher in a new era worthy of past and future accolades.” – Dane Emerson
“After 34 years of hosting fly fishers from around the world, new winds are blowing across El Saltamontes. With Dane and Chiara at the helm, a recharged dose of enthusiasm will be pumped into the fishing program – and the hospitality presentation – by two of the most qualified and professional hosts I have ever met. I am profoundly grateful for their dedicated spirit to bring El Saltamontes to the forefront of Patagonia trout fishing. Muchos Saludos”. – Jose Gorroño” – Owner, Emeritus, El Saltamontes**
The New El Saltamontes – 2025
As an avid trout fisherman (and after several trips down to El Saltamontes in recent years), former Colorado outfitter, Dane Emerson, is reinvigorating and expanding the fishing program to take full advantage of the private water beats on the ranch, as well as a vast number of regional fisheries within close proximity of the lodge. One of the truly exciting aspects of this transition is Dane’s commitment to explore and integrate new water into the El Saltamontes fishing program. In addition to the above, Dane and his guide staff will constantly be on the move, scouting out the many possible rivers, spring creeks and lagunas that permeate the region, and adding new waters as they prove productive. The lodge has 5 guides and Dane himself will be guiding, rotating through guests during the week. The lodge is in a very unique locale, a long way from any significant population center, and surrounded by remote countryside that is lightly-explored. The possibilities are endless for private lease and public water alike! The fishing program is designed to have guests enjoy 2 days on the lodge’s property, 2 days of off-property wading, and 2 days floating on the Mañihuales (or Rio Norte and the larger lakes if the fishing is productive). Dane and his guides will strive for diversity, while understanding that weather and water levels will always be the determining factors of their daily fishing program.
Dane and Chiara have also upgraded the infrastructure of the fishing program, having already brought on multiple Toyota Hilux 4X4 trucks, several new state-of-the-art NRS rafts, and most importantly a world-class guide team collected largely from some of the best talent in South America. As any experienced traveling angler understands, the quality of a lodge’s guide team will make or break the operation, and the guides at El Saltamontes will be among the most experienced fly fishing professionals in the industry. They will cater to each individual’s physical ability as well as their fishing experience. At week’s end every fisherman should have had a wonderful fishing experience, and leave a better, more seasoned angler.
Not to be overlooked will be the meals at the lodge, prepared and presented by a new and classically-trained chef, with a menu focused on amazing regional Chilean dishes including fresh seafood and organic beef and lamb. As well, they will continue Jose’s famous weekly asado, the famous barbeque extravaganza, complete with live music performed by local gauchos.
The accommodations will remain largely the same as before – albeit with some normal upgrades – with beautiful duplex cabins constructed from local lumber, and river rock from Rio Ñireguao.
Reservations for the 2025 Season are now being accepted through The Fly Shop® and our professional angling agent network. A commission of 15% of the trip cost will be paid to agents.
For more information, please contact: travel@theflyshop.com | 800.669.3474 | 530.222.3555
A new video from Bajío follows anglers on the waters of New Smyrna Beach, Florida.
From Bajío:
“Brandon “Eazy” Thompson is more than our local barber, he’s an avid angler, hunter, and dedicated outdoorsman. He’d never fly-fished…..we decided to change that.”
To check out more from Bajío, please click here.
From Costa Sunglasses:
JUPITER, Fla. (February 20, 2024) – For more than 40 years, Costa Sunglasses has delivered on its mission to create the highest standard in lens technology for the ultimate advantage on the water. Today, the manufacturer of the first color-enhancing all-polarized glass sunglass lens continues to elevate its innovative lens technology with 580 Gold, a new rose-based lens delivering unrivaled clarity and added scratch resistance on the water.
Designed with a lighter Visible Light Transmission (VLT), 580 Gold offers enhanced versatility across a spectrum of lighting conditions, ensuring optimal clarity whether out on the water in the bright sun or on an overcast day. Further setting these lenses apart, the distinctive gold mirror treatment is inspired by life after the sunrise, the golden hour. Playing on the softer and redder light from the sun during this time, 580 Gold provides a redefined style for every waterman. This blend of functional excellence and aesthetic appeal promises to deliver a whole new visual experience, offering both a superior view and a bold statement.
At the core of 580 Gold lies Costa’s polarized 580® glass (580G) lens technology, renowned for its exceptional clarity and color enhancement. These scratch-resistant lenses effectively reduce haze and blur, while boosting essential colors for superior definition. This technology, backed with a rose colored base, increases the viewer’s field and vision and is easy on the eyes. The multi-layered gold mirror finish amplifies its performance features while reflecting the adventurous spirit of its wearer.
“The Gold Mirror lens is not just an addition to Costa’s portfolio, it’s a new chapter in the brand’s storied legacy, promising to bring the world into view with an intensity and passion that only Costa can deliver,” said John Sanchez, Vice President Global Product Strategy. “With this launch, we’re offering more than just a new lens, we’re providing a new way to experience life’s most breathtaking moments, reinforcing our dedication to excellence and our continued commitment to the Costa community.”
With 580 Gold, Costa now offers nine different lens color options for the ever-changing nature of light conditions. 580 Gold will be available in more than 20 styles in Costa’s three frame categories – PRO, hybrid and lifestyle. The early, avant premier includes Reefton PRO, Spearo XL, Lido, Loreto and the best-selling Sullivan from the Del Mar Collection.
580 Gold lenses will be available online at CostaSunglasses.com and select specialty retailers starting February 9, 2024. For more information about Costa’s complete collection of award-winning performance, optical and lifestyle eyewear, visit Costasunglasses.com.
About Costa Sunglasses
As the first manufacturer of color-enhancing all-polarized glass sunglass lenses, Costa combines superior lens technology with unparalleled fit and durability. Costa has made the highest quality, best-performing sunglasses and prescription sunglasses (Rx) for outdoor enthusiasts since 1983, and now its product portfolio includes optical frames. Costa’s growing cult-brand status ties directly to its purpose to provide high-quality products with a focus on sustainability and conservation as the company works hard to protect the waters it calls home. From the use of sustainable and water-friendly materials to its Kick Plastic initiative, #OneCoast efforts and meaningful partnerships with mission-aligned organizations, Costa encourages people to help protect the Earth’s natural resources in any way they can. Find out more onCosta’s website and join the conversation onFacebook,Instagram, orTwitter at @CostaSunglasses.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the leading voice for the protection of public lands, waters, and wildlife, today Backcountry Hunters & Anglers shared its support for the Public Lands in Public Hands Act, a bill that would help protect publicly-owned land from privatization. Introduced earlier today in the U.S. House of Representatives by Reps. Ryan Zinke (R-MT) and Gabe Vasquez (D-NM), this bipartisan legislation recognizes the irreplaceable value that public lands have for hunters and anglers.
The Public Lands in Public Hands Act would require congressional approval for the sale or transfer of publicly accessible tracts of federal land greater than 300 acres, or greater than five acres if accessible by public waterway. This is a critical improvement from current law in which federal land management agencies have broad discretion to sell or transfer publicly owned parcels that provide valuable habitat, public access, and recreational opportunities. Limiting lands previously identified for disposal by the Department of the Interior and U.S. Forest Service will greatly reduce the threat of privatization for valuable public resources owned by all Americans.
“Core to the BHA mission is the sanctity of public lands and waters, resources cherished by hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts, and valued as an irreplaceable part of our natural heritage. Without publicly accessible places to recreate, many Americans who share a love for hunting and fishing would be excluded from the opportunity to pursue their passion,” said Patrick Berry, BHA’s President and CEO. “We thank Reps. Zinke and Vasquez for introducing the Public Lands in Public Hands Act which would help to ensure our hunting and angling traditions can continue for future generations.”
As privatization and development continues to threaten wild places in our public domain, sufficient guardrails to the loss of access are more important than ever. Policies that keep public lands in public hands are essential to safeguarding the access and habitat enjoyed by sportsmen and women.
“Preventing publicly accessible lands managed by the Department of the Interior and the U.S. Forest Service from being sold off or transferred is a straightforward and commonsense policy supported by hunters and anglers not just in Montana, but across the United States,” said John Sullivan III, BHA’s Montana Chapter Board Chair. “Passing this legislation into law would strengthen the integrity of our public lands estate and make it more difficult to sell or transfer these invaluable places.”
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.
Thomas Plank
https://www.backcountryhunters.org/
The “shoulder season” can be tricky for many as skiing winds down as spring fly fishing isn’t quite there yet. In a new film, a skier and angler makes the most of it.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“This short film features Kate Wilson, her husband and friends, as they seek out to make the most out of the spring ‘shoulder’ season in search of large brown trout, in between turns up at the local ski hill. This film showcases what taking advantage of your backyard can look like and how two passions can overlap within the same season, spring!”
To see more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
George Daniel is profiled in a new video from Flycraft that follows him to trout and bass waters in some of the best spots in the U.S.
From Flycraft:
“In this episode of Tales From The Craft, we take a long look at the past three years that our photographer has spent with George Daniel in Utah, Montana and Pennsylvania. We search for trout, hit some stillwater and then go after some bass all with the incredibly talented George Daniel.”
To check out more from Flycraft USA, please click here.
February 15, 2024 (Poulsbo, WA) — Grundéns, producer of the world’s leading fishing apparel and footwear, proudly unveils its Spring/Summer 2024 collection, now available at retail partners and Grundens.com. This season’s lineup showcases an expansion of the brand’s award-winning wading collection, the cutting-edge Crewman Tall Boot for commercial fishermen, an innovative new Fishpicking collection, expanded tournament-winning footwear, and a brand-new range of sun protection apparel.
“In Grundéns Spring/Summer 2024 collection, our brand’s commitment to anglers shines through,” says Bryan Trullinger, Grundéns’ VP of Marketing. From the urban versatility of the Cloud Cover Ankle Boot to the advanced functionality of the Vector Wader, this season’s offerings epitomize our dedication to delivering top-tier solutions for every fishing style, ensuring anglers embark on their adventures with unmatched confidence.”
Step into Spring in Style:
Commercial fishing demands reliable gear, and the Crewman Tall Boot is a deckside fortress. This powerhouse boasts a Michelin-backed outsole for unmatched grip, a poured PU platform for all-day comfort, and reinforcements at key points for season-after-season performance. Conquer the ocean floor with confidence, knowing the Crewman has your back. MSRP: $179.99
The Tough Sun Hoodie & Crew are sun-fighting heroes offering unbeatable protection with a lifetime warranty. Tackle any outdoor activity with confidence, knowing you’re shielded from harmful UV rays, whether working on deck or conquering the flats. ($44.99, $34.99)
Better Wading, Deeper Adventures:
Leave even the deepest depths feeling conquerable with the Vector Wader, your ticket to ultimate fishing freedom. This premium non-Gore-Tex champion boasts a remarkable 30K+ submerged waterproof rating, keeping you dry no matter how intense the spray. Molded knee pads provide welcome relief for marathon wading sessions, while essential gear stays close and secure in vertical zip entry chest storage pockets and water-resistant zippered handwarmer pockets. Conquer any waterway with unparalleled breathability, puncture resistance, and comfort, knowing the Vector Wader is built to stand tall against the most demanding fishing challenges. MSRP: $499.99
Don’t let the budget-friendly price fool you; the Bedrock Stockingfoot Wader is a powerhouse. This non-Gore-Tex option features an ultra-dense face fabric built to withstand the roughest rivers. Grundéns’ Wading Mobility Patterning guarantees freedom of movement, both on land and in the water, while the 38mm stretch safety wading belt keeps you secure and comfortable no matter the current. For chilly mornings, the Yamamoto TiAlpha warming neoprene with anatomic shaping delivers exceptional warmth, and size-specific stockingfeet ensure a perfect fit every time. Conquer any waterway with confidence, knowing the Bedrock Waders offer unwavering durability and comfort without breaking the bank. MSRP: $349.99
Performance Apparel Ready for Anything:
For those who demand the best, even when the conditions get rough, the Tough Seas Ankle Boot stands tall. Built with critical points fortified and innovative features like Zig-Zag Topline Binding, it laughs in the face of wear and tear, keeping you dry and confident from dock to deck. MSRP: $139.99
Ditch the bulky boots, not the performance. The Cloud Cover Ankle Boot by Grundéns redefines amphibious footwear, seamlessly blending city swagger with dockside durability. This versatile 3-season staple isn’t for fashionistas; it’s for anglers who demand both performance and style, on land or on the water. Conquer your day, your way, in the Cloud Cover Ankle Boot. It’s the perfect catch for those who refuse to compromise. MSRP: $134.99
Commercial fishing just got an upgrade with the Fishpicking Jacket, Anorak, and ¼ zip shirt. This versatile trio features DWR finishes and functional pockets to keep you dry and comfortable while hauling in your catch. Choose your perfect style for optimal weather adaptability, whether you prefer the full coverage of the zip-up or the breathability of the anorak. MSRP: $179.99, $159.99, $119.99 The entire lineup of apparel and footwear is available now at specialty retailers across the country and at www.Grundéns.com.
From Rajeff Sports:
VANCOUVER, Wash., 15 Feb 2024 – In response to the growing popularity of center access indicators, ECHO Fly Fishing proudly introduces the Center Lock Strike Indicator.
Over the past few years, center access indicators have gained traction among fly fishermen, appreciated for their casting performance and strike detection capabilities. However, despite their advantages, several persistent issues have hindered their widespread adoption. The Center Lock Strike Indicator was designed to eliminate these challenges.
The distinguishing feature of the Center Lock Strike Indicator is its innovative design, which effectively resolves the common problems encountered by anglers who opt for this style of indicator.
Key features of the Center Lock Strike Indicator include:
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Intuitive Design: The indicator features distinct knurling on the female side, providing anglers with a tactile guide for easy identification and grip, even in adverse weather conditions.
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Tangle Prevention: To prevent accidental tippet twisting, the male side incorporates two channels, ensuring a secure grip without compromising performance.
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Versatile Performance: The male post of the indicator boasts two slots, allowing anglers to choose between a sliding or firm grip, catering to varying fishing conditions and preferences.
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Enhanced Tippet Compatibility: A tapered inside design accommodates finer tippet, offering anglers greater flexibility and precision in their fishing pursuits.
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Convenient Rigging: Strategically placed slots enable effortless rigging, facilitating a seamless fishing experience for both novice and experienced anglers alike.
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Secure Seal: Subtle notches on the male side ensure a tight seal when the two halves are joined, preventing water infiltration and preserving buoyancy.
Available in three vibrant colors – white, orange, and optic green – and three sizes to suit different fishing scenarios, the Center Lock Strike Indicator is not only practical but also environmentally conscious. All components, including the foam and hard parts, are biodegradable, reflecting Rajeff Sports’ commitment to sustainability and conservation.
“Over the past few years a certain style of strike indicator has become more and more popular – center access indicators. I think people like the way they cast, some people prefer the way they detect the strike but there are problems that have plagued people that want to use this style of indicator. This new Center Lock strike indicator solves all of those problems.” -Tim Rajeff
About ECHO Fly Fishing
ECHO is a small group of passionate, personable, like-minded fly-fisher folk based in Vancouver Island, Washington. For over 20 years, ECHO has been leaning on the fly-fishing pedigree of rod designer Tim Rajeff. Tim is a world champion fly caster and fly-fishing industry stalwart with a passion for creating high-quality performance fly rods. More details about ECHO, Rajeff Sports and the Center Lock Indicators can be found at echoflyfishing.com
In Of the Sea, anglers gain exclusive access to Banco Chinchorro — a reef in Mexico that is a permit paradise.
From Bajío:
“Banco Chinchorro is an atoll reef erupting out of the deep water about 25 miles east of the Caribbean coastline of Quintana Roo, Mexico. The Atoll is approximately 25 miles long from north to south and 10 miles wide. It covers about a 310 square mile area. The atoll also has Three islands.
Jesse Colten (owner of the Xflats: https://thexflats.com/) and filmmaker Meris McHaney (https://www.instagram.com/merismchane…) were the first in the fly fishing era to gain a temporary permit from the national park office to catch and release fly fish on Banco Chinchorro. The trial permit was only for two days. The crew fished/explored approximately 10% or less of the atoll in that time frame.
Here’s what happened.”
To check out more from Bajío, please click here.
In a new video, Will Phelps heads to Florida to fish with artist Eric Estrada.
From Will Phelps:
“Eric Estrada is a South Florida Native. He is widely known for his acrylic work on canvas, and his unique style of fishy art is recognizable around the world. Not only is he an accomplished artist, but he is also an incredible angler and filmmaker. You can find Eric throughout the brackish and freshwater canals of South Florida chasing Tarpon, Snook, and bass with a fly rod while documenting his adventures for his own YouTube channel, Eric Estrada”
To check out more from Will Phelps, please click here.
In this episode of The Venturing Angler Podcast, Peter Fong talks about his experiences of fly fishing in Mongolia as well as an epic expedition in the Mongolia wilderness.
To learn more about Peter Fong and his new book Rowing to Baikal, please click here.
The Venturing Angler Podcast: Fly Fishing Mongolia with Peter Fong
Industrial salmon farming threatens wild salmon throughout much of the world where salmon still exist. In a new film from Patagonia, salmon farms and their consequences in Iceland are examined.
From Patagonia:
“Our relationship with nature not only defines our history, it shapes our future, too. Yet beneath the surface of Iceland’s fjords, an industrial fish farming method threatens to destroy one of Europe’s last remaining wildernesses. Open net salmon farms wreak havoc on the fragile environments they’re placed in, polluting pristine ecosystems while mistreating the farmed fish and driving local salmon populations to extinction. It’s an industry at odds with Iceland’s untouched landscape, and as a growing local movement has shown, nothing replaces nature. Laxaþjóð | A Salmon Nation tells the story of a country united by its lands and waters, and the power of a community to protect the wild places and animals that helped forge its identity.”
To check out more from Patagonia, please click here.
In this episode of The Venturing Angler Podcast, Peter Fong talks about his experiences of fly fishing in Mongolia as well as an epic expedition in the Mongolia wilderness.
To learn more about Peter Fong and his new book Rowing to Baikal, please click here.
And to check out the podcast, please click below or download our podcast on iTunes, Soundcloud, or Spotify:
In this episode of The Venturing Angler Podcast, Peter Fong talks about his experiences of fly fishing in Mongolia.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Backcountry Hunters & Anglers supports new legislation that will keep important conservation programs running until the end of the decade.
America’s Conservation Enhancement (ACE) Reauthorization Act, was introduced in the U.S. Senate on Friday by Environment and Public Works Committee Chairman Tom Carper (D-DE) and Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV). This bipartisan legislation would renew the following conservation programs through fiscal year 2030:
- The North American Wetlands Conservation Act, a competitive grant program that has conserved more than 32 million acres of waterfowl habitat. Authorized funding for the program would also be increased from $60 million to $65 million.
- The Chronic Wasting Disease Task Force, which is charged with an action plan for state and federal cooperation in managing CWD. One of the single greatest threats to wild deer and other cervids, CWD is always fatal and cannot be detected in live animals.
- The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the United States’ largest grant-maker for the conservation of fish and wildlife habitat.
- The Chesapeake Bay Program, Chesapeake Bay Initiative Act, and the Chesapeake WILD grant program. Each of these assists in the conservation of this ecosystem through habitat restoration and improving water quality.
The ACE Act also makes amendments to improve the National Fish Habitat Conservation Through Partnerships Initiative. Aimed at protecting healthy waters and restoring and connecting aquatic habitat, this initiative coordinates federal and state agencies with other stakeholders to achieve those goals. $1 million would be authorized for the National Fish Habitat Assessment.
“We applaud Chairman Carper and Ranking Member Capito for their leadership on the ACE Act. Lands, waters, and wildlife across the continent would see an investment from this legislation, providing significant benefits to hunters and anglers,” said Kaden McArthur, BHA’s Government Relations Manager. “At a time rife with partisan divide, the uniting power of conservation for the benefit of all Americans is clear.”
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife. Learn more at www.backcountryhunters.org.
From Bonefish & Tarpon Trust:
Miami, FL – Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) will induct legendary fishing guides, Captain Rick Ruoff and the late Captains Joe Gonzalez and Travis Holeman, into the BTT Circle of Honor on May 2, 2024.
“We’re honored to recognize Rick, Joe and Travis for their accomplishments as fishing guides and their support of flats conservation,” said BTT President and CEO Jim McDuffie. “Rick has been a BTT advisor for many years and serves today as a member of our Board of Directors. Joe and Travis, who we lost too soon, worked closely with BTT to tag record numbers of fish in BTT’s research programs. Thanks to their efforts, we’ve been able to learn more about flats species, from the movement patterns and habitat uses of tarpon to the identification of critically important spawning areas for bonefish and permit.”
Captain Ruoff has guided in the Florida Keys for more than 50 years. He graduated from the University of Miami with a degree in marine biology, and began guiding in 1970. Ruoff was elected Commodore of the Islamorada Fishing Guides Association, forerunner of the Florida Keys Fishing Guides Association, in 1976. Under his leadership, the organization strengthened its commitment to conservation issues, including Everglades restoration. Ruoff has served since 2021 on BTT’s Board of Directors, where his biology background has proven an invaluable asset. Ruoff has played a critical role in BTT’s bonefish research, helping to identify bonefish spawning sites in the Florida Keys.
A Florida native, Captain Gonzalez guided professionally for more than 30 years, splitting his time between the Keys, Everglades, and his home waters of Biscayne Bay. Gonzalez shared his fishing knowledge as a regular seminar presenter and made numerous television appearances, starring on Flats Class TV, Bass2Bills, and Sportsman’s Adventures. He was also a passionate and committed advocate for flats fishery conservation, tagging over 1,300 bonefish, more than any guide on record, for bonefish research. He was also instrumental in the success of BTT’s Project Permit, tagging more than 130 fish. Gonzalez was a regular participant in BTT’s International Science Symposium, where he served on the Bonefish Panel.
Born in Waco, Texas, Captain Holeman cut his fishing teeth on the Texas coast. Holeman began guiding in Louisiana before going on to guide along the west coast of Florida and in the Keys. Along with his brother Bear, Holeman appeared on numerous TV shows including 10 years on the ESPN2 Redfish Cup Series, Madfin Shark Series, Kings of Game, and as co-host of the award-winning Chasin’ the Sun TV series on Discovery Channel. Holeman’s achievements as an angler were equaled by his accomplishments as a conservationist. As one of the first champions of BTT’s Project Permit, he freely shared his extensive knowledge of permit and donated countless hours to advance permit research and conservation in the Florida Keys. The Holeman brothers were also important participants in BTT’s Tarpon Acoustic Tracking Project, even helping to tag the first tarpon of the entire project.
The 2024 inductions will take place during BTT’s 11th Annual Florida Keys Dinner and Awards Ceremony, May 2, 2024, at Cheeca Lodge & Spa in Islamorada, Florida. Master of Ceremonies for this special event will be award-winning author T. Edward Nickens, editor-at-large of Field & Stream and a contributing editor for Garden & Gun. Past honorees and special guests will take part in the program.
The BTT Circle of Honor recognizes legendary anglers, fishing guides and conservation leaders who have made significant contributions to the conservation of the flats fishery. It is housed in the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center, located in Islamorada, Florida, and features an annually rotating exhibit about those honored as well as educational content about the significance of the flats fishery.
…
About Bonefish & Tarpon Trust
Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s mission is to conserve bonefish, tarpon and permit—the species, their habitats and the larger fisheries they comprise. BTT pursues this mission across the southeastern US, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea through science-based conservation, education and advocacy.
About Keys History & Discovery Center
The Keys History & Discovery Center is a world-class museum that preserves and shares the incredible history of our Upper Keys community and explores the unique ecology of the region. In addition to permanent exhibits on subjects such as Henry Flagler’s Over-Sea Railway, Legends of the Line, and First People, the Discovery Center offers a lecture series, educating the public through presentations from a variety of expert speakers. The museum’s second floor features a state-of-the-art theater showing documentaries on topics like the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane and Indian Key, as well as traveling exhibits, and the Jerry Wilkinson Research Library. The center, on the property of the Islander Resort, is open Wednesdays through Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
About Florida Keys History and Discovery Foundation
Florida Keys History and Discovery Foundation formed in 2013 to develop and operate Keys History & Discovery Center. The not-for-profit organization’s board of directors is comprised of community-minded volunteers with a passion for the mission of preserving and sharing the unique history and environment of the Florida Keys, particularly that of the Upper Keys. More information can be found at www.keysdiscovery.com or by calling 305-922-2237.
From Orvis:
MANCHESTER, Vt. (Feb. 7, 2024) — Orvis, the family-owned and operated outdoor retailer that pioneered the modern fly rod, announces its next generation of Helios rods. The new Helios is four times more accurate than its ground-breaking predecessor the Helios 3 (H3) and is 25 percent stronger and 10 percent lighter in hand. The result is an intuitive fly rod that is defining a new era in fly rod manufacturing.
“Helios rods are what people think of when they think of Orvis innovation and leadership in fly fishing,” said Orvis President Simon Perkins. “We had something really special with the Helios 3, and we wanted to challenge ourselves with something better. Because the team in our Rod Shop is the best in the world, the result is revolutionary.”
Conceived and built by designers, engineers and rod builders in Manchester, Vermont, the new Helios is the most advanced fly rod in fishing and an unprecedented leap forward in the industry. The new rod displays dramatically increased hoop strength and a radical reduction in rod tip displacement when casting. The result is a rod that is able to deliver a cast that is measurably more accurate than the competition, tracking four times better than the industry-leading Helios 3. It is endorsed by Orvis’s vast network of professional guides and anglers many of whom part of the official testing process across seven countries.
“The new Helios is a reimagining of what’s possible in a fly rod and its ability to deliver the best experience for an angler. Four times more accurate than the industry-benchmark H3 is not hyperbole,” said Shawn Combs, director of fishing design and development. “We’ve built the tools to quantify what’s been measured historically in our industry through feel. This rod is where instinct and innovation meet. The result is the most accurate rod in the world. We know it when we cast it, and we see it in the data.”
The Helios is available in two distinct series, Distance (D) and Finesse (F). The D-Series offers increased line speed, lifting power and stored energy and is available in a variety of sizes, from 4-weight for small stream trout to 14-weight for billfish in saltwater. The F-Series features increased sensitivity optimized for delicate presentations and tippet protection and is available in sizes ranging from 2 weight to 8 weight.
“It’s fun to think of Orvis as a start-up in the 1850s and how Charles F. Orvis wanted to give someone the tool that would introduce them to the natural world in a way that would change their life,” said Perkins. “That’s really what this new generation of Helios does. It makes any angler their best. And when you’re your best, you want to get out and live for more unforgettable moments on the water.”
The Helios fly rod collection (MSRP $1098-$1198) is available online and at select independent fly shops and Orvis retail stores. To explore the Helios collection, please go to www.orvis.com/helios-fly-fishing-rods.
About Orvis
Founded in 1856, outdoor retailer Orvis is the trusted guide to the adventure and wonder in nature. Orvis operates more than 80 retail stores around the United States and maintains a network of over 400 dealers worldwide as a trusted source of discovery and adventure in the natural world through fly fishing, wingshooting and our connection with dogs. A purpose-led company, Orvis was one of the first to establish a corporate philanthropy program in the 1980s. The company commits 5% of pretax profits each year to ensuring the sustainable future of fly fishing, wingshooting, and the natural world for future generations. To learn more visit Orvis.com.
SAINT PAUL, MN (Feb. 6, 2024) – Community-first nonprofit, Indifly exists to serve Indigenous communities around the globe. Through fly fishing ecotourism, Indifly works alongside Indigenous peoples to innovate ways for vital stewards to write their own future. In order to further their mission, Indifly is inviting supporters to join its community of recurring monthly donors, “The Indifly Corps.”
With their commitment, members of The Indifly Corps become part of an exclusive community dedicated to supporting vital stewards of 80% of the world’s remaining biodiversity. Additional benefits of membership include access to meet ups throughout the year, quarterly webinars, Indifly merchandise, custom artwork, and appreciation gifts from Indifly’s partner brands, including Costa Sunglasses and Yeti.
“Five years ago we had a vision to provide a simple way for supporters to consistently engage with our cause. In 2019 the Indifly Corps was born, and individual monthly donors, who are committed to helping Indigenous communities bridge barriers to conservation goals, began supporting our mission,” said Matt Shilling, Indifly Executive Director. “It’s our goal in 2024 to expand and enhance the Indifly Corps. As a token of our appreciation for our current Corps, and in an effort to grow our community of supporters, Indifly will provide additional benefits and forge greater connections to loyal participants.”
Since 2019, The Indifly Corps has been an integral part of Indifly’s efforts to work alongside Indigenous peoples to provide sustainable livelihoods, generate community-wide economic benefits, and create incentives for the protection of Indigenous homelands.
Indifly started out of a project to help an Indigenous village in the heart of Guyana (Rewa) develop a fly fishing eco-lodge. The project and its success created a natural roadmap to expand the model to other areas, and ultimately spawned an organization (Indifly) with a vision to champion Indigenous people, as they steward 80% of the earth’s biodiversity. Today, Indifly has projects operating in Guyana (Rewa Eco-Lodge), French Polynesia (Anaa Atoll), Lesotho (Makhangoa Community Camp), and The United States (Wyoming’s Wind River Reservation), as well as future projects in development.
To join The Indifly Corps, learn more about Indifly and support the cause, visit indifly.org.
About Indifly
Indifly is the community-first nonprofit that gives Indigenous peoples an enterprise-based framework for the creation of sustainable livelihoods, while helping protect cultural identity and ecosystems. Believing Indigenous peoples have the power to solve the world’s most pressing environmental challenges, Indifly works alongside Indigenous communities to innovate ways for them to write their own future. Currently Indifly projects include Rewa, Guyana; Anaa Atoll, French Polynesia; Makhangoa Community Camp, Lesotho; and the Wind River Indian Reservation, Wyoming, United States. For more information about Indifly, visit indifly.org or follow @indiflyfoundation.
Paul Puckett takes on Islamorada in an episode of Silver Kings!
From Silver Kings:
“Capt. Jared Raskob is joined by avid fly angler, artist & musician Paul Puckett for a day in Islamorada.”
To check out more from Silver Kings, please click here.
With much of the U.S. very concerned about such a warm and dry winter, this is a good time to take a look at the consequences of climate change in “Purple Mountains” — a film from Protect Our Winters.
From Protect Our Winters:
“Professional snowboarder and mountaineer @jeremyjones7046 has an intimate relationship with the outdoors. It’s his escape, his identity, and his legacy. But over the course of his 45 years in the mountains, he’s seen things change: more extreme weather, fewer snow days, and economic strain on mountain towns.
Motivated by an urge to protect the places he loves, Jeremy sets out on a physical and philosophical journey to find common ground with fellow outdoor people across diverse political backgrounds. He learns their hopes and fears while walking a mile in their shoes on the mountain and in the snow.
With intimacy and emotion set against breathtaking backdrops, Purple Mountains navigates America’s divide with a refreshing perspective: even though we may disagree about climate policy, our shared values can unite us.”
To check out more from Protect Our Winters, please click here.
Here’s something unusual! The trailer for “What Lies Above” — a film in this year’s Fly Fishing Film Tour — anglers take on permit on the surface in Xcalak, Mexico.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“What Lies Above is a film that tells the story of a unique change in feeding behaviour of permit along the Yucatan Peninsula. An increase in the amount of a floating seaweed called Sargassum being driven into the coastline is creating havoc with tourism and the environment as it piles up and rots. However, a crab that dwells within it, a crab that lives in this floating mass, a crab that the permit in Xcalak, Mexico have learnt to hunt as a regular food source. Join Chase Looney and guide Raul Sanchez on the hunt for permit on the surface in this extraordinary town.”
To see more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) announced the much-anticipated launch of ticket sales for Rendezvous 2024 held in Minneapolis, MN from Apr. 18-20. Rendezvous represents the annual gathering for the broader BHA community to celebrate the organization’s focus on access to public lands and waters, conservation action, and on-the-ground stewardship to restore the special places sought by hunters and anglers. The event is open to the public and welcomes outdoor enthusiasts who share a passion for BHA’s mission.
This year Rendezvous 2024 will take place at the Minneapolis Convention Center in downtown Minneapolis, MN, marking the first time BHA’s premier annual event will be held outside the northern Rockies. Of special significance this year is the celebration of BHA’s 20th anniversary, marking two decades of work on behalf of our public lands, waters, and wildlife.
“We are excited to start bringing the Rendezvous experience to the BHA community across North America, this time to the Minnesota Heartland,” said Patrick Berry, President & CEO of BHA. “Rendezvous highlights our commitment to engage and celebrate the conservation-minded hunters and anglers who embody the BHA ethos. In the world of gatherings focused on hunting, fishing, and conservation, there’s nothing quite like Rendezvous.”
With the largest exhibitor space of any Rendezvous yet, BHA will be joined by corporate partners such as Benchmade, Filson, Jetboil, NRS, Rep Your Water among many other outdoor brands and organizations. Featured guests will include Ryan Callaghan, Director of Conservation for MeatEater, podcast celebrity, and Vice Chair of the BHA Board of Directors. Additional presenters include Randy Newberg, hunter, public lands advocate, and host of fan-favorite hunting show Fresh Tracks.
Acknowledging the recent venue change from the Minnesota State Fairground to the Convention Center, Berry added, “We weren’t comfortable with the somewhat surprising prohibition on safely displayed firearms, knives, and other tools of the trade for hunters and anglers. In keeping with BHA’s steadfast commitment to both the core constituency of the BHA community as well as some our corporate partners, we unapologetically decided to find a new location where we could enjoy Rendezvous in our distinctive way.”
Rendezvous participants can enjoy fan favorites, such as the world-renowned Field to Table dinner, the BHA Chapter Wild Game Cook-off, as well as hunting, angling and outdoor seminars, panels, and demonstrations. On tap this year, BHA will bring a renewed vision of our Campfire Stories during our Public Lands and Waters Celebration, reigniting the Struttin’ & Cluckin’ Calling Contest, as well as an evening of live Podcast and Pints.
BHA Life Podcast & Blast host Hal Herring will be in Minneapolis this Rendezvous, too. “I’m looking forward once again joining this one-of-a-kind tribe of public land hunters, anglers, and conservationists—my kind of people,” Herring said.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife. Learn more at www.backcountryhunters.org.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers
https://www.backcountryhunters.org/
Anglers take on a Keys grand slam in an episode of Silver Kings!
From Silver Kings:
“Capt. Jared Raskob joins Key West Guide Capt. Nick LaBadie on a quest for a Keys Grand Slam. BONUS FEATURE: BTT’s Special “Project Permit” follows.”
To check out more from Silver Kings, please click here.
Anglers take on a kayaking and fly fishing adventure in a new film coming to the Fly Fishing Film Tour.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“Swapping paddles for rods, this crew of kayakers attempt to put the hook in the right spot. Under the emerald waters of Slovenia’s Soča River hides an endemic trout, creating both a classroom and a playground for misadventure.”
To see more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
Now here’s something you don’t see every day! In “Triple Trouble,” an angler takes on saltwater fly fishing as a new pursuit and focuses her attention on tripletail.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“‘Triple Trouble’ – An official selection of the 2024 Fly Fishing Film Tour
For MB, it’s time. She’s long dreamed of going to the salt to chase a new species on a fly rod, and now, it’s her opportunity. But there’s a hitch. She’s not interested in the A-list of fly fishing species. Permit? Not right now. Bonefish? Might be nice. Trevally? Well, that’s a long plane ride. No, MB wants to do this her way. She wants… a tripletail.
For Danielle, saltwater species are home. From the Eastern shore of Mobile bay, all the way to the Florida Keys, she’s cut her teeth on every saltwater species imaginable. She’s passionate about protecting tripletail and raising awareness for the species.
Together, they’ll travel across the south, deep into the Alabama River delta to try and catch what many consider one of the most unique fish in saltwater.
Filmmaker: @dorsaloutdoors
Director: Ben Meadows
Producer: George Constantine
DP: Sam Sumlin”
To see more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
The Rio Marie in Brazil is known by many anglers as the “rio de gigantes” for the giant peacock bass that roam its waters. In a new film for the Fly Fishing Film Tour, anglers take on the giants of this river.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“Peacock bass unquestionably stand out as one of the most intriguing catches on a fly in the Amazon, and Rio Marie is an exceptional location. Helmut Zanderer had previously targeted various peacock bass species but landing a trophy fish, one exceeding 20 pounds, was uncharted territory for him. Follow him and his team as they venture deep into the Amazon jungle as they chase Cichla temensis, the largest in the family of the peacock bass.
Filmmakers: Fly Fish Adventures, @blackflyeyesbfe4495, & @vaidasuselis
Supported by: V Stick Custom Fly Rods, Cortland Line, Ahrex Hooks, & CTS Fishing”
To see more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
From Patagonia:
This past Friday, January 19th 2024, Patagonia celebrated the opening of its first New Zealand retail store. Located in Tāhuna/Queenstown, the store is positioned at the heart of New Zealand’s fly fishing community and includes a custom designed “Fly Bar,” a fully equipped, in store fly tying hub, as well as a selection of fly rods from New Zealand’s own Epic Fly Rods.
The occasion was marked with a Grand Opening event on Friday, where Santillan De Pinto, Patagonia Queenstown’s Fly Fishing Manager, and Mark Barrett, President of the Otago Anglers Club, invited guests to have a go at fly tying for the first time and watch demonstrations from globally renowned guide Simon Chu and Patagonia Founder Yvon Chouinard.
“The Fly Bar is a gift to the community, a place to connect for ongoing workshops, events and education around fly fishing and the protection of the waterways of New Zealand,” said Patagonia Queenstown’s Fly Fish Manager, Santillan De Pinto.
Patagonia was honored to welcome many guests from the local region including fly fishing, climbing, biking, alpine, snow, and trail communities, regenerative agriculture farmers, BCorps, and a special guest appearance from marine scientist and cycling world record holder Annie Ford. Other guests included Patagonia Tahuna’s 1% For The Planet grant recipients The Whakatipu Reforestation Trust, Routeburn Dart Wildlife Trust, Southern Lakes Sanctuary, Mana Tāhuna Charitable Trust, Friends of Bullock Creek and WAI Wanaka. Patagonia Tāhuna/Queenstown’s employee led grants council allocated $100,000 USD in grants to these local environmental grassroots groups in December 2023.
Patagonia’s Cody Randell described the event “with a profound sense of gratitude to be so well supported by our local community. We’re impressed with the turn out and super excited for the future friendships to come.”
Local artist Ella Dulson stoked out guests with her screen printing carousel. Ella’s designs themed around watershed conservation in New Zealand. Guests were also treated to a performance from Queenstown’s local busking legend and pianist Luke Gajdus.
The Tahuna/Queenstown Store honors Patagonia’s commitment to opening stores that have a positive impact on the local community, designed and crafted as a place to gather, educate, collaborate and experience.
Patagonia Tāhuna/Queenstown Store, 49 Beach Street, Queenstown, NZ
Open seven days a week: 10am to 6pm
Please visit https://www.patagonia.co.nz/pages/patagonia-queenstown for further store details.
About Patagonia
We’re in business to save our home planet. Founded by Yvon Chouinard in 1973, Patagonia is an outdoor apparel company based in Ventura, California. As a certified B Corporation and a founding member of 1% for the Planet, the company is recognized internationally for its product quality and environmental activism, as well as its contributions of nearly $230 million to environmental organizations. Its unique ownership structure reflects that Earth is its only shareholder: Profits not reinvested back into the business are paid as dividends to protect the planet.
In GOLD FEVER — a film now available to watch in full online — anglers head to Bolivia to fly fish for dorado.
From Helmut Zaderer:
“I proudly present my film 𝗚𝗢𝗟𝗗 𝗙𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗥. In September 2022, an adventure to explore undiscovered rivers in the middle of the Amazon began at Pluma Lodge in Bolivia/Tsimane. In the ‘Serranía Moseten’ region there are numerous tributaries that have never been entered by a man before. We had the special opportunity to be part of the exploration trips by helicopter – to fish and produce this unique film.
𝗚𝗢𝗟𝗗 𝗙𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗥 was an official selection and broadcasted at the International Flyfishing Film Festival 2023 IF4.”
To check out more from Helmut Zaderer, please click here.
For the last 10 years, the crew at Hooké have put out some of the best Atlantic salmon fly fishing content we’ve ever seen. They now have a new film in the Fly Fishing Film Tour.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“‘Only the Salmon Knows’ – An official selection of the 2024 Fly Fishing Film Tour
For the past 15 years, Fred Campbell has traveled relentlessly across eastern Canada to fly fish for Atlantic salmon. In the rich territories of Nunavik, Labrador, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Quebec, he has discovered beautiful rivers where these mysterious fish come to spawn. After all these years, his passion and curiosity are still strong. His desire to get in touch with the fish of a lifetime has grown over the years, pushing him to continue learning and exploring. Stories of great salmon have been heard, but for them to take the fly, many factors must align.
This year, to celebrate Hooké’s 10th anniversary, Fred went on a trip to three rivers where he had never fished, in search of the fish he had been dreaming of all these years. Accompanied by local guides and good friends, he ventured out on the Causapscal, Patapedia and Restigouche rivers for the trip of a lifetime where only the salmon know why they take the fly.
Directed by: Fred Campbell
Produced By: Hooké”
To see more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
A new year and a new issue of The Mission. Issue 43 just went live and features some great profiles, interviews, gear nods, and destination content. It’s always exciting to see a new issue.
To check out the new issue of The Mission, please click here.
New Smyrna Beach, Florida is the home of Bajío Sunglasses and the homewaters that the Bajío crew fish in a new video.
From Bajío:
“Jay made it to Bajío’s homeland, New Smyrna Beach, FL – a small beach town with a big fishin’ problem.”
To check out more from Bajío, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
DENVER, CO. – Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) affirmed its role as the leading advocate for access to publicly owned land by adding its voice in the landmark “corning crossing” case in Wyoming. For the second time in the case, BHA submitted an amicus brief in defense of four hunters who were sued for trespass by a private landowner who claimed their momentary passage through his airspace violated his property rights. The hunters used a ladder to cross between adjoining corners of public lands, never setting foot on private land, and BHA, led by its Wyoming Chapter, has stepped up to raise over $140,000 for their legal defense.
“The value of public resources that remain land-locked behind corners across the West cannot be understated nor ignored,” said Patrick Berry, BHA’s President and CEO. “BHA is proud to represent the rights of everyday Americans who hold equal title to hunt, fish, explore, and enjoy land owned by all of us without fear of retaliation.”
BHA’s legal advocacy comes on the heels of a favorable federal court ruling in 2023 finding that “corner crossing on foot in the checkerboard pattern of land ownership without physically contacting private land and without causing damage to private property does not constitute an unlawful trespass.” The case, Iron Bar Holdings vs. Bradly Cape et al, has been elevated to the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit and the outcome could secure access to millions of acres in the West.
BHA’s Western Policy & Conservation Manager Devin O’Dea added, “BHA was founded on the principle that our shared public lands and waters are worth fighting for. We thank the courts for giving us the opportunity to represent the hunters and anglers across the nation who seek the lawful right to access public lands in pursuit of their passions while respecting private property boundaries in the process.”
As the basis for its position, BHA relied primarily on the Unlawful Inclosures Act, passed by Congress in the late 1800s to settle the range wars erupting between cattlemen and farmers over access and use of land in the West. The checkerboard mosaic of public and private lands created well over 100 years ago has resulted in unintended conflicts that remain unresolved.
For more information on BHA’s position on Tenth Circuit appeal of Iron Bar Holdings vs. Bradly Cape et al, read the full brief. For the amicus brief that BHA submitted in the original case, read more here.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.
From Patagonia:
VENTURA, Calif. — Patagonia is joining the Campaign for a Safe and Healthy California as part of the outdoor apparel brand’s 50-year history of supporting grassroots environmental activists.
The Holdfast Collective, which receives the money that’s not reinvested back into Patagonia’s business, donated $500,000 today to help keep a law in place to protect Californians from oil and gas drilling. Patagonia’s hometown of Ventura is in one of the largest oil-producing counties in California, and more than 8,000 Ventura County residents live within a half-mile of an oil well.
“There are many important debates happening about how to address climate change, but we should all be able to agree, at the very least, on community safety—especially when families and children are at risk,” said Patagonia CEO Ryan Gellert.
Nearly 30,000 oil and gas wells in California sit within a few thousand feet of homes, schools, hospitals and other public areas, exposing more than 2 million people, disproportionally communities of color, to emissions that cause birth defects, respiratory illnesses and cancer. An independent scientific advisory panel in 2021 advised California officials that a 3,200-foot setback—one kilometer—between oil wells and sensitive receptors is the minimum distance to protect public health.
The state legislature and Gov. Gavin Newson passed SB1137 in 2022 to require oil companies to strengthen the health and safety standards of existing oil wells within 3,200 feet of homes, schools, day care centers, parks, healthcare facilities and businesses. The law also prohibits new oil drilling within the same buffer zone. However, oil companies paid people to gather signatures and succeeded in adding a question to California voters’ ballots in the Nov. 5, 2024 general election to decide whether to overturn the public safety measures. The law is on hold until voters have their say.
“Big Oil’s deceptive campaign to try and undermine a new law protecting communities against toxic oil drilling is shameful, and they will stop at nothing to protect their bottom line,” says Darryl Molina Sarmiento, executive director of Communities for a Better Environment, a co-founding coalition member of STAND L.A. and the Campaign for a Safe and Healthy California. “That’s why our broad and diverse coalition, including youth and working families living next to neighborhood oil drilling, will work every day until the election to ensure that Californians vote to keep the law that establishes a 3,200-foot buffer zone from homes, schools and hospitals in place.”
Patagonia has contributed more than $16 million to support environmental justice work in the last five years alone. The company released the 2020 film District 15 to highlight activists in Wilmington, Calif. working with Communities for a Better Environment to protect residents from oil infrastructure surrounding their neighborhoods. Those activists were instrumental in convincing the state of California to pass the setbacks law. Since 2004, Patagonia has conducted non-partisan environmental campaigns to rally its customers and community to vote for candidates and policies that will protect the planet.
About Patagonia
We’re in business to save our home planet. Founded by Yvon Chouinard in 1973, Patagonia is an outdoor apparel company based in Ventura, California. As a certified B Corporation and a founding member of 1% for the Planet, the company is recognized internationally for its product quality and environmental activism, as well as its contributions of more than $230 million to environmental organizations. Its unique ownership structure reflects that Earth is its only shareholder: Profits not reinvested back into the business are paid as dividends to protect the planet.
About the Campaign for a Safe and Healthy California
The Campaign for a Safe and Healthy California is a coalition of public health professionals, environmental justice groups, community and faith leaders, and youth joining together to stand up to Big Oil and make sure that no Californians have to endure health hazards from living just steps from dangerous oil wells.
From Simms:
Bozeman, Mont. (January 16, 2024) – Simms Fishing Products, preeminent manufacturer of waders, outerwear, footwear, and technical fishing apparel kick off the new year with the launch of an all-new product collection designed and developed to meet the demands of all anglers. Simms’ Spring 2024 line puts innovation and cutting-edge technology at the forefront but also authentically encompasses the angling lifestyle.
Spanning across all categories, Simms’ Spring 2024 product collection includes the all-new, multi-award winning G4Z Stockingfoot Wader. Built in Bozeman, Montana by Simms’ highly skilled Wader Maker team, the all-new G4Z is available now through March 1,2024 exclusively via Simms’ vast specialty retail network.
“Innovation is the cornerstone of the Simms business, and I can’t think of a product that’s more representative of that commitment than the G4Z wader. The G4Z is an exceptional solution for anglers, and a testament to the craftsmanship of our Bozeman Wader Makers,” says Simms Head of Product, Ben Christensen. “To celebrate this step forward in innovation and to recognize the critical importance of our long-term industry partners, the G4Z is launching exclusively with our specialty retail network.”
Handcrafted in Bozeman, Montana, the all-new G4Z Stockingfoot Wader utilizes the same award-winning fabric package as its predecessor. Built with a super durable, easy wearing 4-layer GORE-TEX® Pro Shell lower, the wader features a 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro Shell upper for maximum comfort, mobility, and breathability. While the fabric package has remained intact, the patterning of the wader has received a significant update to offer anglers a better fit, enhanced comfort, and range-of-motion. In addition, the 4-layer lower has been extended higher up on the legs and seat to bolster the durability in the hardest working areas of the wader.
One of the more visual improvements is an all-new spacer mesh suspender package. A harness style design provides anglers with a much more ergonomic fit and breathable support. The new suspender system also comes equipped with new cam-locking hardware for on-the-fly adjustment. To deploy, simply flip the cam up and pull the suspender straps until the desired tension is achieved. Flip the cam back down to lock in place. Conveniently, the excess suspender strap slides into laser cut slots located on the inside of the top hem of the wader.
Remaining updates are less obvious to see but greatly improve the overall performance of the wader. The new G4Z features the classic pocket array of two zippered stretch woven chest pockets and an additional two zippered handwarmer pockets. These handwarmer pockets now come equipped with a higher pile micro fleece to warm frozen fingers quicker. In terms of pockets, two toothless, TruZip, fully submersible pockets have been added on the inside of each side of the YKK center-front zipper. Another major update is the G4Z’s most distinguishing feature, the zipper. Previously, the zipper was sewn in, now it’s bonded in. This construction method drastically reduces bulk and rigidity in the upper portion of the wader to offer more comfort and mobility.
To compliment the new G4Z Wader, Simms has also revamped their award-winning G4 Pro Jacket. Constructed with a 3-layer GORE-TEX shell fabric, the new G4 Pro Jacket maintains the tradition of providing anglers with ample onbody storage but does so while achieving a sleek and streamline front. The unique storage array includes dual zippered chest storage pockets with interior stretch mesh dividers and zippered side entry handwarmer pockets featuring integrated pass-through zippers that allow anglers to access their waders without having to remove the jacket. An internal stretch woven zippered pocket provides storage for smaller essentials. Additional features include a 3-point adjustable storm hood with a high-vis center panel, adjustable low-profile cuffs designed to lock water out, and a stashable loop fly field to dry and store flies.
Simms has also expanded their footwear category with the inclusion of an all-new G3 Guide Boot and the versatile Pursuit Shoe.
Built with an ultra-tough traditional construction boot design, the G3 Guide Boot utilizes a combination of high-abrasion textile mesh as well as synthetic and natural rubber with scratch rubber overlays on the toe and heel for maximum durability. Equipped with a neoprene interior for easy on/off, a dual-density EVA midsole for comfort, the boot is powered by a Vibram® Idrogrip rubber outsole featuring Traction Lug technology that offers anglers 20% better slip-resistance than standard Idrogrip. Also available in felt, the G3 Guide Boot is compatible with Simms Hardbite and Alumibite Star Cleats and Hardbite Studs
Simms has long been a leader in the footwear space offering anglers all types of fishing focused solutions. Designed to offer anglers a wide spectrum of versatility, the all-new Pursuit Shoe provides traction, support, and comfort for anglers fishing on-deck, wet-wading rivers, and/or walking the flats. Built with a breathable and quick-draining mesh upper, the Pursuit Shoe comes equipped with a stretch neoprene collar to keep debris out. For durability, TPU overlays have been added in key wear areas and a quick-lacing system allows for easy fit adjustment. Designed to be worn next-to-skin, or with a thin liner sock, the Pursuit Shoe features an ultra-grippy, non-marking siped outsole.
Simms’ Spring 2024 line also brings with it an expansion in the sportswear category. The all-new SolarFlex Cooling Hoody is constructed with the same lightweight, moisture wicking, UPF 50 knit fabric and now features built-in cooling technology. A 3-panel hood and extended sleeves provide maximum protection against the sun.
Another new addition to the Sportswear category is the Glades collection. Inclusive of a Men’s and Women’s Hoody, and a Men’s Crewneck style, all pieces in the Glades collection are built from easy wearing fabrics that breathe in hot environments and offer UPF 30 sun protection with a super comfy next-to-skin feel.
Anglers also have plenty of options for performance driven pants and shorts. Built with a durable Micro-Ripstop fabric, the all-new Driftless Wade Pant provides 4-way stretch for comfort and mobility in and out of the water. A button front closure with a zippered fly and stretch elastic waist provide a secure fit and two front mesh lined hand pockets and a single back right mesh lined pocket provide storage for small essentials.
The beloved Superlight Pant and Short have also been revamped for Spring 2024. Built from water-repellent, fast drying woven nylon, the Superlight collection features a fixed waistband with a zippered fly, two front drop-in hand pockets and two back pockets. For buggier fishing environments, the collection now includes the Bugstopper Superlight Pant as well.
Standout sportswear additions for women include the W’s SolarFlex Hoody Full Zip, W’s Seamount Short, and the W’s Simms Skort. Equipped with a 3-panel hood, a full zip center front closure, thumb loops, and a concealed zippered stash pocket on the side, the all-new W’s SolarFlex Hoody Full Zip offers UPF 50 sun protection, comfort, mobility, and controllable ventilation.
Built with a durable polyester blend, the W’s Seamount Short is lightweight, stretchy, and dries fast. Featuring a mid-rise fit with a stretch elastic waistband and an exterior adjustable drawcord, the Seamount Short also includes dual drop-in front hand pockets and a zippered secured back pocket for small necessities.
Finally, the W’s Simms Skort is built from a lightweight recycled polyester blend that offers an unhindered range-of-motion, dries fast, and keeps anglers protected from the sun with built-in UPF 50 technology. A high-rise waistband and interior short made from a stretch polyester/spandex knit offers next-to-skin comfort, compression, and comfort.
These are only a handful of standout styles in Simms’ Spring 2024 product collection. To see the line in its entirety, click here: Simms Spring 2024 New Arrivals
From Skwala:
Bozeman, Mont., (January 15, 2024) — Skwala Fishing announces a new member of its vaunted wader lineup. The Backeddy Wader hits participating retailers and online today and is sure to bolster the brand’s reputation as making the world’s finest fly fishing apparel.
The new Backeddy Wader borrows some of its heritage from its sibling, the award-winning RS Wader. The Backeddy Wader utilizes the same 4-layer waterproof/breathable laminate with DWR finish, and ultra-dense 100% polyester microfiber double weave face textile found in the RS Wader. The Backeddy Wader also comes with Skwala’s unique gravel gaiters, renowned articulation that provides freedom of movement, anatomically patterned, fully glued and taped 4mm neoprene booties with an abrasion resistant sole panel, and incredibly comfortable shoulder yoke system.
From that point, the Backeddy Wader deviates to carve its own niche in the company’s wader lineup. Two years in the making, this wader delivers unique, thoughtful solutions to complicated problems: Magnetic shoulder yoke attachments eliminate line-catching buckles while still providing Skwala waders’ well-known ease when getting in and out. Removable knee pads provide anglers with cushion for close-quarters streambed creeping on wary trout.
A pass-through kangaroo chest pocket provides shelter for chilly hands and features dual-sided zippers to prevent hang ups on oar-handles while rowing. An additional zippered drop top pocket holds your phone or other necessities. Skwala even added the popular side dump-pockets from their technical sun hoodies for quick, secure access to tippet, floatant, split shot, indicators, or other small items.
“The Backeddy Wader is the result of our team examining the features that anglers need to create a better day on the water,” says Kevin Sloan, Skwala’s CEO + Founder. “While still maintaining the Skwala wader DNA, the team did a great job of developing a wader that we think will quickly become an industry standout.”
The Backeddy Wader is available online at SkwalaFishing.com and at select Skwala Retailers across the United States.
About Skwala
Skwala builds gear for fly anglers who are constantly pushing the limits of their fishing adventures. Spearheaded by founder Kevin Sloan, the Skwala team is obsessed with innovation that utilizes leading materials, thoughtful design, and unsurpassed construction. Skwala builds gear that is built to fish and always ready for the task at hand. Check out the gear line-up at www.skwalafishing.com.
From Keep Fish Wet:
Amherst, MA — January 15, 2024 — Announcing Bonefish In Our Hands, the third in their species-specific series covered by Keep Fish Wet’s grassroots effort to empower recreational anglers to better protect the fish we love. Keep Fish Wet, with support from Yellow Dog Community and Conservation Foundation, has created an open-source infographic and social media campaign to highlight how people can safely play, handle, and release a bonefish to improve chances of survival after it swims away.
“We focused this campaign on bonefish in The Bahamas as it’s such a popular fishing destination and because we have ample science on catch-and-release from various islands. Team members from Keep Fish Wet, including myself, have conducted nearly all the catch-and-release science on bonefish” says Sascha Clark Danylchuk, Executive Director of Keep Fish Wet. “Predation by sharks or barracuda is the major cause of mortality for bonefish after they are released, but we have shown that anglers can significantly decrease the chance or predation for bonefish just by changing a few simple handling techniques. Every angler targeting bonefish can put conservation into practice by using the information provided in Bonefish In Our Hands.”
As part of this campaign, Keep Fish Wet also collaborated with Bahamian artist Jace McKinney who created vibrant illustrations that accompany the science-based best practices.
“Bonefishing in The Bahamas represents a significant percentage of tourism dollars. The livelihoods of guides and the sustainability of dozens of lodges and businesses are directly tied to the health of the fishery in the Bahamas. We wanted to make sure every angler who visits The Bahamas is empowered with the information they need to protect the fish they traveled to catch, ensuring that The Bahamas remains a very special destination for the foreseeable future” said Brooks Scott, Executive Director of the Yellow Dog Community and Conservation Foundation.
The “Bonefish In Our Hands” infographic is available as an open access resource for guides, shops, lodges, and the fishing community to use to help anglers contribute to the resilience of bonefish in The Bahamas.
More information can be found at www.keepfishwet.org/bonefish-in-our-hands
The waterways of the Southeast U.S. have been taking a beating for some time. In a video from Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, Flip Pallot addresses the negative impacts of weed killers in Florida’s waterways.
From Bonefish & Tarpon Trust:
Join Flip Pallot and BTT in opposing the use of weedkiller in our waterways! Learn more and join the fight at BTT.org/WinBackOurWater
Anglers take on tarpon in the Florida Keys in a a new episode of Silver Kings.
From Silver Kings:
“Capt. Jared Raskob and long time friend and tournament angler Mitch Widom have a fly rod in hand and go in search of tarpon in Islamorada.”
To check out more from Silver Kings, please click here.
From Sage:
BAINBRIDGE ISLAND, Wash. (January 4th, 2024) –
For 2024, Sage introduces the next generation of Spey-specific fly reels in the SPEY Reel family.
Angling for anadromous species is a dynamic balance of preparation and faith. In any given day on the water, or at any given moment, either element may prove more important than another. While in focused pursuit, the angler employs their tackle to the best of their abilities and when doing so, they demand consistency, reliability, and ease of use. Among all their tools of choice, these criteria are most applicable to the fly reel. A great Spey reel satisfies these plus a wide variety of other specific requirements, from precise outgoing drag to comfortable balance with the rod and effective line management. Lastly, but not to be discounted, is its ability to captivate and inspire confidence. Sage’s new SPEY Reels are designed specifically for the anadromous angler, providing an ideal mix of enhanced, modern performance, and refined, traditional design.
Internally, SPEY Reels utilize a redesigned, sealed, carbon fiber disc and dual-clicker drag system that ensures dependability, eliminates unwarranted spool rotation, and offers exceptional resonance.
As Sage Reel Designer Joseph Conrad describes, “SPEY Reels are built on the foundation of our longstanding Sealed Carbon System (SCS) Drag and improved upon with two key evolutions: newly formulated O-ring seals, and custom dual-clicker. The drag systems are sealed by our new and proprietary O-rings, which are designed to withstand greater amounts of compression. This ensures a stronger seal while at the same time resisting wear and fatigue. We also redesigned the clicker system, adding a second clicker. In addition to increased amplification and improved durability, the dual-clicker design also limits free spool rotation, so fishing distance isn’t inadvertently decreased while casting. The SPEY Reels’ One-Revolution Drag Knob has twenty, numbered drag settings with half-detents, allowing for precise, consistent, and replicable drag settings that can be returned to over and over again.”
Mass and balance were given equally-high attention in their design process as they updated model sizing to better align with matching Spey rods, and they adjusted the location of the reel foot to provide uniform axial balance with the rod. A full-frame design eliminates the possibility of shooting lines slipping between spool and frame while the addition of a machined radius around the reel foot aids in comfortable wrapping of leader, tip, or tippet.
As Sage Reel Designer Joseph Conrad describes, “The frame and spool designs of the SPEY Reels focus on the Spey system’s balance as a whole, and also the unique lines and riggings used in two-handed casting and fishing. The location and amount of the reels’ portings (or lack thereof) are strategic, resulting in an overall weight that is appropriate for longer Spey rods. Additionally, we adjusted the location of the reel foot from an
exact-center position to better align with the center-of-mass of the reels themselves. In the machining of the reel foot, we included radiused edges; this prevents any kinking, memory, or compromising of the Spey leader, tip, or tippet. Retrieval direction is changed easily with a flip of the clutch bearing. Lastly, our spool design features full-frame line guards to eliminate any chances of shooting line migration, a wide palming rim to allow for additional control while fighting fish, and capacity dimensions to match larger-diameter Spey lines.”
Completing the package is a classic and elegant aesthetic of porting and laser engraving that Spey anglers can acknowledge and appreciate.
As Sage Reel Designer Joseph Conrad describes, “The SPEY Reel aesthetic is an amalgam of influences from the past and present, a nod to Spey traditions and innovations of our own making as well as those from the greater anadromous angling community. The reels’ porting shapes and laser engravings call to mind classical designs while the depth and layers of the frame and spool are never-before-seen. The colors were developed to be alluring but modest, and the anodized finishes add character while also providing corrosion resistance and surface protection. Of special note is the Granite colorway, which perfectly complements the new Sage SPEY R8 rods.”
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SPEY Reel Highlights |
- Newly Formulated O-Ring Seals & Custom Dual-Clicker | Greatly increases both functionality and durability of the SPEY Reel drag system
- Fine-Tuned Balance & Consistent Line Management | Full-frame design keeps lines tangle-free while an off-center reel foot aligns center of gravity for a better balanced Spey setup
- Classic Design | High-performance is blended with a timeless and classic design that appeals to the traditional nature of Spey fishing.
Features |
- SCS Drag
- One Revolution Drag Knob With 20 Numbered And 39 Detented Settings
- Large Arbor For Fast Line Pick-Up
- Concave, Ported Arbor For Greater Strength And Capacity
- Machined Aluminum Full Frame Construction
- Radiused Reel Foot w/ Center-Of-Mass Balance
- Minimal Porting For Classic Look And Better Counter-Balance
- Easy Conversion From Left-Hand To Right-Hand Retrieve
- Neoprene And Embroidered Ballistic Nylon Reel Case
- Screw Tight Spool Lock With Knurled Lock Nut For Extra Grip
- Colors: Granite, Black
MSRP: $550-$575
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As Sage Reel Designer Joseph Conrad summarizes, “Our new SPEY Reels are the result of 40 years of designing, fishing, and tinkering combined with our enduring passions of Spey fishing for anadromous species. During that period, we’ve watched – and in many cases, driven – innovation in the Spey world in real time: material advancements, rod and line development, evolutions in fishing and casting techniques, and the discovery of new swung fly fisheries. As a result of all those years of experience and collective understanding, we’ve determined the very specific demands that modern Spey anglers place on their reels. We’ve taken this information and applied it to the new SPEY Reels.”
Available in three Spey-specific models that will suit double-handed rods 5 through 10 weight, there’s sure to be a SPEY Reel to match any Spey setup. For more information on Sage’s all-new SPEY Reel, visit https://farbank.com/collections/sage-spey-ii-reel
MODELS
- 5/6/7 | 550gr Skagit Head + 100ft SL + 150yds/20lb Backing
- 6/7/8 | 600gr Skagit Head + 100ft SL + 150yds/30lb Backing
- 8/9/10 | 725gr Skagit Head + 100ft SL + 200yds/30lb Backing
About Sage:
Founded in 1980, Sage was created with one idea in mind—to build the world’s finest performance fly rods. From the start, Sage has maintained that singular focus on delivering the finest performance fly fishing rods, reels, and equipment to the avid angler. We are a company of passionate anglers and craftsmen, continually seeking performance advantages through new materials, designs, and engagement with the fly fishing community. We fly fish. You can feel our passion for fly fishing in everything we do. For more information, please visit https://farbank.com/pages/sage/. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube.
From the American Museum of Fly Fishing:
| The American Museum of Fly Fishing (AMFF) will honor the Jackson Hole One Fly Foundation (JHOFF) with its 2024 Heritage Award on April 18, 2024 in NYC. The Foundation is being recognized for its extraordinary efforts in supporting conservation projects and educational stewardship programs that benefit the upper Snake River drainage and its native cutthroat trout population.“I am absolutely thrilled to honor such an incredible organization” remarks AMFF Board President Fred Polhemus, “The One Fly has dedicated itself to the conservation of our waters in a way that inspires each of us to be better stewards. We look forward to highlighting the rich history of the tournament, their conservation pioneers, and the camaraderie and community it continues to feed year after year.”Founded in 1986, the Foundation hosts the legendary “One Fly” tournament every September in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Every year, forty select teams put their angling skills to the test over the course of two days, with each angler allowed just a single fly. The tournament captures the spirit of friendly competition, while celebrating the generosity of its participants and partners. The JHOFF uses monies raised from the event along with partner matching funds to fund stream conservation and habitat rehabilitation projects along the upper Snake River and its headwaters in Yellowstone National Park. To date, the JHOFF has raised over $3M while joining matching funds from others to fund over $22M, yielding total funding of over $25M for selected native cutthroat trout conservation projects.The AMFF will honor the JHOFF with our 2024 Heritage Award at a special kickoff event on April 18th in New York City. In addition to cocktails and dinner, the event will feature guest speakers and a film that captures the history and magic of the One Fly tournament. The museum is thrilled to have the chance to celebrate the organization’s devotion to conservation, and to relive a few tales of the camaraderie and tight-knit community of One Fly participants over the past thirty-eight years. Leading up to the event, a lucky member of the museum will win one of the highly coveted seats on the AMFF Chairman’s Boat team in the 2024 One Fly tournament. The official Heritage award presentation will take place during the regularly scheduled Jackson Hole One Fly event in Jackson Hole on September 8th.Tickets will be available for purchase in the coming weeks. Complete the form through the button below to be notified.Please contact Sarah Foster (802-362-3300 x201 or at sfoster@amff.org) for more information. |
April 18: AMFF Honors the Jackson Hole One Fly Foundation with the 2024 Heritage Award
BAINBRIDGE ISLAND, Wash. (January 4th, 2024) –
For 2024, Sage introduces the next evolution in double-handed fly rod technology with the SPEY R8.
The Spey angler’s arena is exacting and exhausting. Seams and structure are often in the middle or far side of the river; bushes behind and trees above complicate casting the necessary distance. Deep and fast currents, combined with slick bedrock and boulders make wading arduous. All the while, extreme weather – rainforest deluges, high desert glare, or never-ending daylight – continuously test resolve. Nevertheless, the simple fact remains that the more time the fly is in the water, the better the odds of an encounter. To maximize their chances, the Spey angler needs a rod that delivers the fly precisely, time and time again, with minimal fatigue. They need a rod that’s Intuitive and easy to cast, optimized and Fine-Tuned for their application.
By utilizing Sage’s proprietary Revolution 8 graphite, SPEY R8 rods heighten the smooth transfer of energy throughout the three key components of the Spey cast, allowing anglers to effectively Lift line off the water, Load the rod sufficiently, and Deliver the fly to the target. Casts become instinctive and consistent.
As Sage Rod Designer Paul Schmierer describes, “An effective Spey cast is dependent on efficient transfers of energy in each of its three key components: the Lift, Load, and Delivery. Utilizing our proprietary Revolution 8 graphite technology along the full length of double-handed rod tapers results in a blank with an unmatched ability to capture and carry power, plus exceptional tracking. Energy produced during the cast and applied directly to the rod are transmitted entirely into the line, so Spey casters aren’t required to compensate for lost energy or imprecise rod reactions.”
Simultaneously, Sage Fine-Tuned rod models and actions to match the vast array of Spey situations found around the globe.
As Sage Rod Designer Paul Schmierer describes, “In designing our new SPEY R8 rods, we recognized there isn’t a single rod action appropriate for the wide variety of Spey fishing applications found around the globe. We identified four distinct Spey rod applications, each with its own unique set of requirements. This new approach matches rod action to application, ensuring anglers have the most fine-tuned Spey rod for their fishing. Across the family, our Revolution 8 Technology ensures a remarkably smooth and intuitive feel, no matter the line configuration.”
Sage’s history designing and building Spey rods dates back to the late-1980’s – nearly the beginning of the company itself – when America’s Spey Revolution was just beginning. While the SPEY R8 family’s performance is a culmination of their most-advanced material technology, blank designs, and rod weight-length configurations to date, Sage has chosen
the aesthetics as a nod to their deep Spey rod history, the pioneers of this niche within fly fishing, and of course, the anadromous fish themselves.
As Sage Rod Designer Paul Schmierer describes, “Every detail is a thoughtful mix of functional intention and traditional looks. The overall look feels fresh yet familiar, is distinctively Sage, and inspires you to pick up the rods and fish them.”
SPEY R8 Highlights |
Fine-Tuned Actions – four distinct Spey-specific actions | Switch (7116-4, 8116-4), Lightweight Linespeed (5126-4, 6130-4), Max Versatility (7126-4, 7130-4, 7136-4, 8130-4, 9130-4), Most Powerful (8126-4, 8136-4, 9140-6, 10150-4)
Intuitive Performance – bringing R8 Technology into Spey | Maximum energy is captured throughout the casting stroke leading to a highly efficient Spey cast.
Classic Aesthetic, Distinctive Charm | A classically designed cosmetic package nods at Sage’s rich history in Spey while maintaining a fresh and familiar feel.
As Sage Rod Designer Paul Schmierer summarizes, “With SPEY R8, the result is a Spey Casting Synergy that ’s enjoyable and approaching effortless – casts are smooth, instinctual, and consistent. Be it steelhead, Atlantic salmon, Chinook salmon, or sea-run brown trout; Skagit, Scandi or Traditional lines. SPEY R8 rods capitalize on each cast, increasing the likelihood of the almighty moment that we all are devoted to.”
Available in a number of Spey-specific models from 5 through 10 weight, there is sure to be a Fine-Tuned tool for every angler and any Spey situation. For more information on Revolution 8 technology and SPEY R8, visit https://farbank.com/collections/sage-spey-r8
Features |
- Spey Specific / Fast Action
- Revolution 8 Technology
- Ale Blank Color
- Grey Primary Thread Wraps w/ Gold & Black Trim Wraps
- Fuji K-Series “Tangle Free” Stripping Guides
- Hard Chrome Snake Guides & Tip Top
- Aluminum Down-Locking Reel Seat (Up-Locking for Switch) w/ Walnut Insert
- Laser Etched Sage Logo on Slide Band
- Super-Plus Grade Cork Handle & Rear Grip w/ Composite Cork Trim Rings
- Black Rod Bag w/ Gold Sage Logo & Ale Colored Model Tag
- Low Light Bronze Aluminum Tube w/ Granite Tube Cap & Gold Matte Black Sage Medallion
- Handcrafted in the USA
MSRP : $1300
MODELS // 5126-4 / 6130-4 / 7116-4 / 7126-4 / 7130-4 / 7136-4 / 8116-4 / 8126-4 / 8130-4 / 8136-4 / 9130-4 / 9140-6 / 10150-4
About Sage:
Founded in 1980, Sage was created with one idea in mind—to build the world’s finest performance fly rods. From the start, Sage has maintained that singular focus on delivering the finest performance fly fishing rods, reels, and equipment to the avid angler. We are a company of passionate anglers and craftsmen, continually seeking performance advantages through new materials, designs, and engagement with the fly fishing community. We fly fish. You can feel our passion for fly fishing in everything we do. For more information, please visit https://farbank.com/pages/sage/. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube.
From Bonefish & Tarpon Trust:
Miami, FL – Costa Sunglasses has renewed its Platinum Sponsorship of Bonefish & Tarpon Trust in support of Project Permit, a more than decade-long research initiative that has greatly advanced permit conservation in the Florida Keys in close collaboration with the guide community.
“When you love something, you want to protect it. That was the motivation behind Costa’s partnership with Bonefish & Tarpon Trust for Project Permit more than 10 years ago, and it’s the same reason we continue our legacy partnership today,” said Jed Larkin, Brand Director for Costa Sunglasses. “The findings from this project have been remarkable, and seeing those play a role in effective management to protect this iconic permit fishery is something we’re really proud of.”
Results from Project Permit, a dart- and acoustic-tagging program, informed the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission’s 2018 expansion of the Special Permit Zone (SPZ) spawning season closure to include the month of April. Project Permit research also identified Western Dry Rocks as the most important spawning site for flats permit in the Lower Keys, and project data informed FWC’s 2021 decision to establish a no-fishing closure at the site to protect vulnerable permit and other species during their spawning season.
To ensure that FWC has sufficient data for evaluating the effectiveness of the closure, BTT launched in 2022 a monitoring program at WDR and three other critical permit spawning sites in the Lower Florida Keys. The three-year project utilizes acoustic telemetry, sonar technology and laser-mount underwater cameras to monitor permit spawning behaviors and estimate permit size and abundance. BTT and Costa’s celebrated short film, A Pathway for Permit, recaps the history and accomplishments of Project Permit. The project is also featured in Costa’s 2023 Protect Report.
“We thank Costa for its continued partnership and support of Project Permit,” said BTT President and CEO Jim McDuffie. “This study has expanded our knowledge of permit movement and habitat uses and made a lasting impact on permit conservation in Florida waters. We look forward to continuing to work with Costa and the Keys guide community to ensure effective management of this iconic permit fishery.”
*Permit photos are available upon request.*
About Bonefish & Tarpon Trust
Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s mission is to conserve bonefish, tarpon and permit—the species, their habitats and the larger fisheries they comprise. BTT pursues this mission across the southeastern US, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea through science-based conservation, education and advocacy.
About Costa Sunglasses
As the first manufacturer of color-enhancing all-polarized glass sunglass lenses, Costa combines superior lens technology with unparalleled fit and durability. Costa has made the highest quality, best-performing sunglasses and prescription sunglasses (Rx) for outdoor enthusiasts since 1983, and now its product portfolio includes optical frames. Costa’s growing cult-brand status ties directly to its purpose to provide high-quality products with a focus on sustainability and conservation as the company works hard to protect the waters it calls home. From the use of sustainable and water-friendly materials to its Kick Plastic® initiative, #OneCoast efforts and meaningful partnerships with mission-aligned organizations, Costa encourages people to help protect the Earth’s natural resources in any way they can. Find out more on Costa’s website and join the conversation on Facebook or Instagram at @CostaSunglasses.
In “Visibility” — a new film coming to the Fly Fishing Film Tour — angler and guide Lael Johnson breaks down what makes him the man he is today.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“‘Visibility’ – An official selection of the 2024 Fly Fishing Film Tour Lael Johnson, Steelhead guide, navigates Washington waters while unpacking challenges faced throughout his youth and present day. And how these experiences effected him, shaped him, and ultimately saved him.
Filmmaker: Tyler Soares
Presented By: Simms”
To check out more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
The 2024 Fly Fishing Film Tour is right around the corner, and the trailers are now starting to go live. In “A Line in the Sand,” anglers show their love of the Bahamas and the need to protect a vulnerable resource.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“‘A Line in the Sand’ – An official selection of the 2024 Fly Fishing Film Tour
The island of Andros is a pristine ecosystem, with the largest freshwater source in the Bahamas, massive mangrove shoreline, of the world’s largest barrier reefs, and a legendary bonefish habitat. Now, a small group of anglers and activists are raising their voices in an effort to stop a 5,000-acre limestone mine threatening its future.
Filmmaker: Harrison Hughes & Black Mountain Cinema Supporters: Columbia PFG, Ross Reels, Mad River Outfitters, Environmental Defense Fund, & Andros Bonefishing Club”
To check out more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
Another old episode of the Sportsman’s Journal is now available to watch online. In this episode from the 90s, Andy Mill and Capt. Harry Spear take on tarpon in Florida.
From Mill House:
“In this episode, good friend and mentor, Capt. Harry Spear and I set out to catch Tarpon on 4lb test.”
To check out more from Mill House, please click here.
Costa Rica offers a great deal for fly anglers. Roosterfish, jacks, bluewater species, trout, and more are species to target in this beautiful, mountainous, coastal country. In a new video from Anchored Outdoors, Costa Rica as an angling destination is broken down.
From Anchored Outdoors:
“Ever dreamed of visiting Costa Rica, fly rod in hand? A legendary ecotourism destination, Costa Rica is also home to an amazing diversity of fishes. Two oceans and a variety of rivers and lakes gives anglers the ability to target many different species, all within a relatively small geographic space. Join us for a coast to coast tour of everything this Central American country has to offer. Whether you are interested in tarpon, roosterfish, billfish, rainbow trout, or an array of exotic warm water species, Costa Rica has something for everyone.
Fly Fishing Costa Rica specializes in the finest fly fishing (and sometimes light tackle) adventures in Costa Rica. Our core values emphasize positive local impact, diverse cultural exposure, and an overall superb angler experience. By integrating top quality fly fishing, the right balance of roughing it and comfort, a bit of local flavor, and an air of authentic adventure, we ensure you experience an unforgettable trip.”
To check out more from Anchored Outdoors, please click here.
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Disclosure: Anchored Outdoors is in a professional relationship with the The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
In a new video, anglers come together for a family fly fishing trip that also celebrates 10 years of WildFly Production.
From WildFly Productions:
“This story celebrates 10 years of Wild Fly! It chronicles the beginning origin of our story with the crew who started it all. After years apart, Scottie brings his Cousins & Uncle back for a Western fly fishing adventure they’ve talked about since they were kids.”
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
Anglers take on aggressive cutthroat trout on mouse flies in a video from Flyfraft …
From Flycraft:
“Fly fishing for big cutthroat trout eating top water mouse patterns is not something you see everyday, but when you encounter it, it will be a day you never forget. The Flycraft crew took a couple days off from work this fall to chase these trout using our new Trolling Motor Bow Mount. Tune in for some exciting eats, info on the new bow mount trolling monitor system, and the typical fishing banter.
This new bow mount is a game changer for any still water fishing. Easily control your electric motor with a remote control or gps routes. You can now control the motor from any place in the boat and fish at the same time. This new system will turn your inflatable fishing boat into a bass boat! We recommend Minn Kota or Motor Guide 55 lb thrust bow mount electric trolling motors.”
To check out more from Flycraft USA, please click here.
An Oregon steelhead advanture! In a new video, Will Phelps heads to Oregon in search of steel.
From Will Phelps:
“For this video, we teamed up with Axis Vehicles to take you on a steelhead journey in Oregon. Our goal was to take out their demo van and get a feel for how we might go about building out our own E-Series Van with Axis in the future. After visiting the coast, we made our way to the river where Erika and I managed to find our first-ever steelhead on the fly. Huge thanks to Barrett with Nam Products and Taylor with Axis.”
To check out more from Will Phelps, please click here.
In a new video from Trouts, Colorado guide Sam Kinney heads to the high country to take on trout in a small creek.
From Trouts:
“Recently, Trouts Guide Sam Kinney used an off-day to hike into and fly fish a small creek. The season in the high country will be coming to a close sooner than we’d like to admit. With that in mind, Sam knew a day spent throwing dries to eager small creek fish would be a day well spent.”
To check out more from Trouts, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON – Critical wildlife habitat, including big-game migration corridors and sage grouse habitat, will benefit from a new partnership between the Bureau of Land Management and Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. Inflation Reduction Act dollars are underwriting the project work, which will be focused on a number of Western states, including California, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon, Montana and Wyoming.
Under the partnership agreement, the BLM will invest $2.5 million over five years in BHA-led projects for fence modification and removal, habitat improvement and overall stewardship initiatives. Populations of pronghorn, mule deer, elk and bighorn sheep will benefit through the elimination of barriers to their movement and by improving habitat connectivity on and around BLM lands. Sagebrush country and critical habitat supporting grouse populations also stand to gain via targeted fence removals, which will reduce both fence-grouse collisions and predation perches for corvids and raptors.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Bureau of Land Management and leverage historic investments in conservation to elevate BHA’s commitment to improving connectivity for big game migration corridors,” said John Gale, BHA vice president of policy and government relations, “as well as scaling up our wildlife habitat stewardship projects across the West.
“Our outdoor traditions and Western heritage rely on the conservation of our natural resources, along with a shared obligation to ensure the health of our fish and wildlife populations,” Gale continued. “Through fence removal and modification, habitat restoration, work with ranchers, and inspiring future generations of habitat stewards, we can unite people around common values. By working with critical management agency partners like the BLM, we can establish a lasting model to inform all our conservation endeavors still to come.”
BHA is utilizing data provided by BLM wildlife staff and state fish and wildlife agencies to identify priority habitat, including fence work pinpointed for removal or modification within state action plans developed for Interior Department Secretarial Order 3362, “Improving Habitat Quality in Western Big Game Winter Range and Migration Corridors.”
“To complement removal and modification of fence work in known areas of need, we will actively work to inventory fencing in additional areas of overlap with priority habitat, in coordination with staff with the BLM and state fish and wildlife agencies,” said Britt Parker, BHA habitat stewardship coordinator. “Our expectation is that this work will reduce barriers to wildlife migration and movement across public lands in the West, thereby improving habitat as well as climate adaptation for a range of big-game species and other wildlife species, such as sage grouse.
“At the heart of BHA lies the engaged dedication of our chapter leaders and grassroots members,” Parker stated. “We’ll be relying on volunteer muscle as we work to advance this project work, via a combination of direct employee efforts and organized volunteer stewardship workdays, through which BHA will leverage volunteers, supporters and corporate partners to improve habitat for wildlife across the West.”
Learn more about BHA’s on-the-ground stewardship work and find events happening in your region.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
https://www.backcountryhunters.org/
From Patagonia:
VENTURA, Calif. — Patagonia is set to release The Future of the Responsible Company: What We’ve Learned from Patagonia’s First 50 Years, written by the company’s director of philosophy, Vincent Stanley, with founder, Yvon Chouinard. It includes a detailed explanation of Patagonia’s novel ownership structure that made global headlines one year ago.
The Future of the Responsible Company provides the ultimate insider’s view of the essential elements of Patagonia’s business and offers lessons for the future learned from running an examined company. Stanley is responsible for many of the campaigns and initiatives that have made the company one of the most well-known and trusted brands in America, and his latest book offers readers an approach to corporate responsibility in a time of deepening cultural divides and a worsening climate and ecological crisis.
“The core responsibilities of a business to its stakeholders has not changed in the past decade,” Vincent Stanley said, stating the need for a radical revision of the original book. “But the world has changed. The threats to environmental and social health have accelerated. So has our knowledge of what needs to be done, by both business and the public sector.”
The book builds on the foundation laid by the original (The Responsible Company, published 2012), which articulated how a company can reduce the harm it causes, improve the quality of its business and provide meaningful work to its employees. The Future of the Responsible Company includes 75 percent new content, photos and a completely new chapter dedicated to the jobs we need to save our home planet and society.
Since its founding in 1973, Patagonia has dedicated its influence and resources to preserve the natural world. Starting with an essay urging climbers to rethink their equipment to protect the rock they ascend to pioneering the use of organic cotton, the company has explored how to use business for good. In 2018, Patagonia changed its purpose to “We’re in business to save our home planet,” and in September 2022, Chouinard and his family gave up ownership of the company. Patagonia is now managed by the Patagonia Purpose Trust and a nonprofit called the Holdfast Collective. The Purpose Trust locks in the company’s values, and all money not reinvested back into the business is given as a dividend to the Holdfast Collective to fight the climate and ecological crisis.
As natural and business landscapes shift while confronting an increasingly chaotic climate, The Future of the Responsible Company offers business leaders a vision for minimizing environmental impact and enacting policies that prioritize a company’s health and longevity over the often-destructive pursuit of short-term profit.
The Future of the Responsible Company is published by Patagonia and will be available Sept. 12 online at Patagonia.com, at Patagonia retail locations and booksellers nationwide.
The Future of the Responsible Company on Patagonia.com
About the AuthorVincent Stanley is Patagonia’s Director of Philosophy and has been with the company on and off since its beginning in 1973, for many of those years in key roles as head of sales or marketing. More informally, he is Patagonia’s long-time chief storyteller. Vincent helped develop The Footprint Chronicles, the company’s interactive website that outlines the social and environmental impact of its products; Worn Wear; and Patagonia Books. He currently serves as company philosopher and is a resident fellow at the Yale Center for Business and Environment. He is also a poet whose work has appeared in Best American Poetry. He and his wife, the writer Nora Gallagher, live in Santa Barbara and on the coast of Maine.
About PatagoniaWe’re in business to save our home planet. Founded by Yvon Chouinard in 1973, Patagonia is an outdoor apparel company based in Ventura, California. As a certified B Corporation and a founding member of 1% for the Planet, the company is recognized internationally for its product quality and environmental activism, as well as its contributions of nearly $200 million to environmental organizations. Its unique ownership structure reflects that Earth is its only shareholder: Profits not reinvested back into the business are paid as dividends to protect the planet.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON – Important fish and wildlife habitat in Alaska will be conserved following an announcement by the Biden administration today, heeding the calls of millions of hunters, anglers, recreationists, Indigenous voices and others who have vocally advocated for the long-term conservation of America’s Arctic.
The administration’s action focuses on key areas and priority issues in Alaska:
- Remaining oil and gas leases on the 1.5-million-acre Coastal Plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses a total of 19.3 million acres as the largest tract in the National Wildlife Refuge System and the single-largest undisturbed tract of public land in the United States, will be cancelled. The seven remaining leases were suspended in June 2021.
- Conservation activities will be prioritized in the National Petroleum Reserve – Alaska, the largest contiguous unit of public lands in the United States at 23.6 million acres, via initiation of a rule that will strengthen protections for approximately 13 million acres of designated “Special Areas” and provide a roadmap for the creation and conservation of additional areas of valuable fish and wildlife habitat.
- A draft supplemental environmental impact statement issued by the Interior Department for the Arctic Refuge’s Coastal Plain Oil and Gas Leasing Program, conservation needs and Indigenous rights in the Arctic Refuge region will be recognized – and prioritized.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, including members of BHA’s Alaska chapter, have worked for more than a decade to ensure the responsible management of this hunting and fishing paradise. Today BHA commended actions being undertaken to secure fish and wildlife habitat in America’s Arctic that is, in a word, irreplaceable.
“We thank the Biden administration for recognizing the importance of America’s Arctic as the pinnacle of our public lands system in the United States,” said John Gale, BHA vice president of policy and government relations. “These are some of the last large, intact wild landscapes in North America. With tremendous value to fish and wildlife, it is clear now as it has always been, that the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is no place for development.
“Designated Special Areas in the Western Arctic deserve the strongest possible protections to ensure their conservation for generations to come,” continued Gale. “Hunters and anglers dream of the chance to pursue fish and game in these iconic landscapes. Today’s announcement will help keep those dreams alive. And furthermore, all across North America, many of us set our sights on waterfowl each season that rely on nesting grounds in America’s Arctic. The administration’s actions will help ensure that these storied pastimes endure in the Lower 48.”
Public lands in America’s Arctic provide habitat for caribou, musk oxen, Dall sheep, moose, wolves and all three species of North American bears. Tens of thousands of waterfowl rely on the vast wetland complexes, especially the Teshekpuk Lake Special Area, as important nesting habitat including greater white-fronted geese, Pacific black brant, cackling geese and snow geese. Additional species of waterfowl that nest in the region and migrate to North America’s flyways include all four species of eiders, tundra swans, wigeon, pintail, longtail duck, canvasback, teal and merganser. Braided rivers and Arctic lakes in this region are home to sought after fish such as Dolly Varden, Arctic char, as well as lake trout and northern pike.
“As an Alaskan who found solace in these treasured landscapes during the grim pandemic years, I can testify that America’s Arctic is, in a word, essential,” said Barry Whitehill, a BHA life member from Fairbanks who is vice chair of the BHA Alaska chapter board. “This action by the administration speaks to the importance of these lands and waters to the American people. If our society can’t save a national treasure like the Arctic Refuge from industrial intrusion, then what can be saved?”
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
https://www.backcountryhunters.org/
Exciting flats action in Northern Australia in a trailer for a new film from Kane Chenoweth.
From Kane Chenoweth:
“Red dirt roads, untouched flats and remote river systems, Cape York is an iconic part of Northern Australia. Home to the endemic ‘Anak Permit’ and hard fighting Barramundi, Cape York offers some of the best and most diverse saltwater fly fishing in the world. Join us on the adventure as American angler, Dave McCoy @davemccoyewa, joins Aussie Fly Fisher’s, Joshua Hutchins in the wilds of Australia.”
To check out more from Kane Chenoweth, please click here.
THE WHITEWATER, a film from Off the Grid Studios, originally premiered at the 2020 Fly Fishing Film Tour. The film focuses on Kate Taylor and Justin Crump and their commitment to living and guiding on favorite rivers and the ecological challenges that are ever-present.
From Off the Grid Studios:
“Throughout their lives, Kate Taylor and her husband Justin Crump have prioritized time on the water more than nearly all else in their lives. As fly fishing guides splitting time between Oregon and Alaska, they live the dream of many anglers — having an endless season of chasing trout, steelhead, and salmon. However, their connection to the water faces them with the reality that many rivers and wild places now require a fight for their survival.
THE WHITEWATER was featured in the 2020 Fly Fishing Film Tour.”
To see more from Off the Grid Studios, please click here.
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Disclosure: Off the Grid Studios is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
From RIO Products:
RIO Products has announced a new unique series of Scandi shooting heads, the all-new Scandi Launch, designed to maximize the fun of fishing small flies on floating lines. Scandi Launch is easier to cast than traditional Scandi or long belly lines and is the perfect addition for your summer steelhead or your Atlantic salmon. If you’re new to the Scandi world, the Scandi Launch is the perfect line to learn the ways of the single spey and hone your two-handed skills. More advanced spey anglers will find this line to be an extremely fun and versatile addition to their shooting head collection.
The Scandi Launch was meticulously developed for two purposes. First, to make it easy to cast. Second, to delicately deliver flies when quiet presentations are needed. The specific series of tapers concentrates weight at the back of the head, putting more weight in the D loop—making it easier to load the rod. Additionally, front taper and tip diameters have been individually refined for each line to ensure a soft delivery. The Scandi Launch is ideal for fishing a tapered nylon leader or a light VersiLeader.
Fish it fine and fish it far off.
TECHNOLOGIES:
- ConnectCore Plus – Ultra low stretch for maximum performance
- SlickCast – Exceptionally slick finish, and a super tough coating to keep you on the water
FEATURES:
- EasyID – Printed line marking system allows anglers to easily identify line
- Front & Back Welded Loop
Line Sizes:
5 320gr, #5/6 350gr, #6 380gr, # 6/7 410gr, #7 440gr, #7/8 470gr, #8 500gr, #8/9 520gr, #9 550gr, #9/10 580gr, #10 610gr, #10/11 640gr, #11 675gr
MSRP: $64.99
LINK: https://farbank.com/products/rio-elite-scandi-launch
About RIO:
In 1990, Jim and Kitty Vincent founded RIO in the mountains of Idaho on the idea that exceptional fly fishing products should be built by anglers for anglers. More than twenty five years later, we’re still in Idaho and driven by that same ethos. Most of us here are passionate fly fishing anglers, wading all day in cold, clear Idaho trout streams, lighting delicate dries and heaving huge streamers – hooking, (losing), landing, turning loose fish after fish… We won’t even mention the horror of having to battle tarpon after bonefish after permit in the balmy turquoise tropics, or braving the wrath of angry chrome in BC.
Anglers take on the challenges that come with spring runoff in Montana in a video from The Fly Project.
From The Fly Project:
“Jay and I have found that exploring is the best option. We started with flows, and then we created a plan: Plan A; River. Plan B; Creek. Plan C; Lake/Reservoir. ‘The Plan’ also factored in the effects of water temperatures, muddy tributaries, and crowded angling spots.”
To check out more from The Fly Project, please click here.
In the film “NexGen,” filmmaker RA Beattie reveals the beauty and meaningful relationships...
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers: TUSAYAN, Ariz. – This morning, a broad coalition...
From Simms: Bozeman, Mont. (August 2, 2023) – Simms Fishing Products, preeminent manufacturer...
From RepYourWater: ERIE, Colo. (July 18, 2023) — RepYourWater is pleased to release their...
Miami, FL — The Yellow Dog Community and Conservation Foundation (YDCCF) has awarded a...
From NEMO: {Dover, NH—June 27, 2023}—NEMO, the award-winning, independent designer of outdoor gear...
From CamelBak: PETALUMA, Calif. – CamelBak®, a global leader in personal hydration products...
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
DENVER – Today the Colorado Supreme Court issued a ruling on the Hill vs. Warsewa water access case, finding against plaintiff Roger Hill and taking a step backward in the fight for legal public access and recreation in the navigable waters of Colorado.
The court decided unanimously against Hill on standing grounds, holding that he does not have any legally protected interest separate from the state’s alleged ownership of the riverbed, and therefore he cannot pursue a declaratory judgment action. The result is that the case will be dismissed.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers has been engaged in this legal battle for access for years, filing an amicus brief with two of its partners, American Whitewater and the Colorado River Outfitters Association. The brief argued that the Arkansas River was in fact a navigable waterway at statehood and thus the public has a right to wade, float and fish. Today’s decision did not address the question about whether the Arkansas River is a publicly accessible navigable waterway.
“For too long, the state of Colorado has neglected to provide the legal assurance needed to ensure anglers like Roger Hill can freely enjoy the state’s waterways without being threatened or harassed by neighboring private landowners,” said Don Holmstrom, co-chair of CO BHA and an attorney who is tracking the case on behalf of BHA. “Today’s decision leaves anglers like Roger Hill in a catch-22. He cannot sue unless he can prove a legal injury, but he lacks the standing to do so.
“We call on the state’s decision makers to stand up for the public’s right to enjoy recreational access to Colorado’s waters,” Holmstrom continued. “BHA remains committed to working to ensure the public has the right to fish and float in the Centennial State.”
To date, the state of Colorado has failed to affirm the public’s right to access to the state’s navigable waterways. Instead, the state has sided with private landowners who have taken extreme steps to block access from rivers and streams, including “death trap” metal obstacles, barbed wire and other aggressive measures that place recreators in dangerous situations. This status quo fails to recognize the importance of navigability and access to the tens of thousands of individuals each year who access Colorado’s rivers to fish, raft or simply enjoy the state’s natural beauty.
“Apparently, the only remedy for someone in Roger Hill’s position is to test their rights by fishing from the bed of a navigable stream and risking arrest and physical injury by angry landowners,” said attorney and public access expert Mark Squillace. “If Hill or some other parties were arrested for fishing from the bed of a stream, then standing would not be an issue because as defendants they could claim that they have the legal right to stand on the bed of a river because it is held by the state in trust for the people.”
“Indeed,” Squillace continued, “the U.S. Supreme Court has held that a state’s title to the bed of navigable waterways is unlike title that it might hold in other land; rather ‘it is a title held in trust for the people of the State that they may enjoy the navigation of the waters, carry on commerce over them, and have liberty of fishing therein, freed from the obstruction or interference of private parties.’ Sadly, the Court fails to even acknowledge this important precedent let alone apply it to the facts of this case.”
“Today’s decision by the Colorado Supreme Court represents a setback for the public to recreate in the navigable waters of Colorado,” concluded Holmstrom. “This is not the end but only the beginning of our efforts to secure those rights.”
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
From CamelBak:
PETALUMA, Calif. — CamelBak®, the global leader in award-winning personal hydration products and a Vista Outdoor Inc. (NYSE: VSTO) brand, announced its Spring ’23 hiking hydration pack line, which includes the all-new Fourteener collection, fully redesigned Octane 22 and two new sizes in the Octane family. The new and redesigned hydration packs blend technical features with premium materials to provide hikers with a range of size options and styles suitable for any environment and length of day hike.
“At CamelBak, we’re deeply passionate about spending time in the outdoors and creating gear that helps us enhance our time outside. With a team full of avid hikers, our new hike hydration packs have been designed with smart features that were informed by spending countless miles on the trail,” says Emma Axtell, product manager at CamelBak. “We’re thrilled to offer hikers ultimate versatility in the Fourteener and Octane collections that can be appreciated by both experienced and new hikers alike, as they set out on the trail this summer.”
CamelBak’s hiking hydration packs provide consumers with two distinct styles of pack for varied styles of hiking. The Fourteener collection was designed with all-day endeavors in mind, while the Octane series of packs were made for ultra-light and fast missions on the trail.
Fourteener Series Takes You Higher
Aptly named to reflect rugged mountains that are fourteen-thousand feet or greater in elevation, the Fourteener collection of hydration packs are available in both men’s and women’s-specific fits. The men’s models are available in 26-liter (MSRP $140) and 32-liter (MSRP $175) size options, while the women’s are available in 24-liter (MSRP $140) and 30-liter (MSRP $175) volumes.
Hiking-specific details are shared throughout the collection, including trekking pole attachment points, side stretch pockets for easy access to essentials, and CamelBak’s iconic Command Center Harness, which places a mesh pocket on a shoulder strap for fast access to a phone or any other small item, while providing stability with an adjustable sternum strap and hip belt. An expandable mesh pocket is found on the larger volume packs while a bungee system is incorporated into the smaller sizes for easily stashing extra layers.
All of the Fourteener packs include a 3-liter Crux reservoir to stay hydrated on full-day adventures, as well as a suspension mesh back panel to help reduce weight, increase airflow and provide a comfortable fit. Sustainable construction with durable PU-coated 210D Bluesign-approved ripstop and 300D recycled polyester materials ensure the contents are well protected in tough environments, while reflective details help provide added visibility in low light.
The Octane Family Grows
Whether you’re interested in going ultralight to reach higher heights or picking up the pace for a fast hiking adventure, the Octane family of packs is built to keep you light on your feet, no matter where the trail leads. New sizes in the collection include 12-liter (MSRP $130) and 16-liter (MSRP $150) models, while a redesigned 22-liter (MSRP $170) volume, completes the family.
Carving out space in the hike pack collection as a premium option, the Octane series of packs are the only models that come standard with CamelBak’s upgraded 2-liter Fusion reservoir.
All of the Octane packs are constructed of ultralight PU-coated 75D Cordura ripstop and treated with C0 DWR for added protection, feature a back panel that blends 3D vent mesh and a ridged EVA foam for optimal airflow, and reflective details that provide added visibility in low light conditions.
These packs are loaded with useful features, such as a unique vest-style harness system with integrated storage to provide superior stability in rough terrain, trekking pole attachment points, and mesh stretch pockets on the front and sides of the pack for easy access to essentials.
The main pocket on the 16L model features a roll-top closure for top-loading gear, paired with a full-length vertical zip for quick entry, while the 12 and 22-liter models utilize a full-length main zipper that can fold down entirely for unobstructed access to contents.
The new CamelBak Fourteener and Octane collections are available now, at authorized CamelBak resellers and at www.CamelBak.com.
For more information about CamelBak, please visit https://www.camelbak.com.
Anglers take on permit in Belize in a video from Under Armour.
From Under Armour Fish:
“‘If you catch one out here, that’s a true achievement. Braggin’ rights.’ – @capt.dermin_shivers @lionstaleadventures was after braggin’ rights. We just needed the weather to cooperate and to find the permit.”
To check out more from Under Armour Fish, please click here.
A new issue of Catch Magazine is now live! In their latest issue, anglers take on Bristol Bay, dorado in Bolivia, trout in New Zealand and more. Great stories and photos and a video from Todd Moen make this a good one.
To check out the new issue of Catch Magazine, please click here.
Another great old video from Scientific Anglers has resurfaced. In “Fly Fishing Magic,” Scientific Anglers takes on fly fishing for different species at numerous destinations.
To check out more from Scientific Anglers, please click here.
MIAMI (May 26, 2023) — On May 11, 2023, Nautilus Reels’ Kristen Mustad was invited to the White House to participate in a celebration to recognize protections for Bristol Bay, Alaska. The small gathering included representatives from companies that have been outspoken about Pebble Mine over the years, along with Native American leaders and regional stakeholders. The event included an address and comments from President Biden, celebrating protections of Bristol Bay through the Clean Water Act.
This was the second time Nautilus Reels was invited to the White House. In 2020, the company was honored by President Trump at the Spirit of America Showcase event, which brought attention to industry-leading companies that manufacture in the United States. Nautilus’ Kristen Mustad and Charlotte Gonzalez used this as an opportunity to raise concerns about conservation issues directly with the Trump Administration by bringing custom reels that highlighted efforts to save the Everglades and to protect Bristol Bay.
Shortly after, Nautilus was among those that were excited that through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Trump Administration put in place hurdles for the permitting process for the mine and later denied the mine permit.
“Politics is a dirty sport and can be very divisive. But businesses and people from all sides of the political spectrum came together over the past couple of decades to save Bristol Bay, and the project was shut down multiple times only to come back again and again,” states Kristen Mustad, president of Nautilus Reels. “I truly hope that this is the end of it, for good.”
After years of being outspoken, raising awareness, calling anglers to action, and helping raise funds for this effort, Nautilus Reels was honored to be invited to the White House to celebrate protections of Bristol Bay.
Nautilus Reels is grateful for all those who have worked tirelessly to protect Bristol Bay.
About Nautilus Reels:
Nautilus Reels produces an award-winning line of reels from its headquarters in Miami, Florida. Nautilus is on the forefront of reel innovation and maintains a tradition of experience and excellence while continuously improving performance. For more information about Nautilus Reels, please visit their website and follow Nautilus on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court has ruled against clean water and wetlands, narrowing interpretations for the test that determines Clean Water Act protections under what are called “waters of the United States.” The ruling yesterday in favor of the plaintiff in Sackett vs. the Environmental Protection Agency eliminates safeguards for almost all of the nation’s wetlands and drastically reduces the EPA’s authority to protect other wetlands and waterways that provide valuable fish and wildlife habitat.
The Clean Water Act was enacted to restore and maintain the quality of U.S. waters and wetlands. In part, it regulates the discharges of pollutants into “navigable waters,” which is broadly defined as “the waters of the United States.” By restricting protections for waters to only those with a “continuous surface connection,” the Supreme Court dramatically reversed course on prior rulings that had protected any wetlands with a “significant nexus.” Many of these wetlands are connected to headwaters streams and systems that provide critical fish and wildlife habitat, such as playa lakes in the Southwest and the prairie pothole region in the Midwest that is North America’s “duck factory.”
In 2022, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers joined with groups including the American Fly Fishing Trade Association, Izaak Walton League, National Parks Conservation Association, National Wildlife Federation, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership and Trout Unlimited in filing an amicus brief in the Sackett case. Together, those groups, which represent millions of hunters, anglers, national park advocates and outdoor recreationists, argue that wetlands with a significant connection to traditional navigable waters must be included in Clean Water Act protections. They also maintain that the plaintiffs’ proposed interpretation of the landmark law relies on a flawed reading of the act’s text, structure and purpose.
“This ruling from the Supreme Court is a gut punch to fish and wildlife and the American people who just lost clean water protections for most wetlands across the country,” said John Gale, BHA vice president of policy and government relations. “Instead of seizing the opportunity to secure greater certainty for wetland systems and ephemeral and intermittent streams often connected to wetland complexes through surface and subsurface flows, the court has ensured future litigation and greater vulnerability for migratory birds, coldwater fisheries and millions of people who want cleaner, safer drinking water.
“For half a century, our nation has enjoyed a bipartisan commitment to wetlands and Clean Water Act protections,” stated Gale. “The court’s decision has unraveled that legacy and eroded proven safeguards.”
The groups’ amicus brief outlines how the narrow interpretation proposed by Sackett would subject the majority of wetlands in the United States to industrial pollution without penalty and that state protections would not make up for the loss of federal protections. It underscores how narrowing the coverage of the Clean Water Act would have devastating effects on wetlands, rivers and streams, fish and wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities for millions of hunters, anglers and recreationists.
Healthy rivers, streams and waterways are integral to the health of America’s public lands. The loss of clean water protections could have significant economic consequences for outdoor recreation, which supports $788 billion in consumer spending and more than 5 million jobs in the United States. More than 50 million Americans fished in 2019, where fishing and hunting contributed $200 billion to the U.S. economy.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
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Watch us on YouTube.
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John Hudgens is an angler and guide who has had an impressive career in fly fishing. He is now focused on educating anglers through the Anglers Academy. In this episode of The Venturing Angler Podcast, John discusses his background and his passion for fly fishing education.
To learn more about the Anglers Academy, please click here.
The Venturing Angler Podcast: Taking on Fly Fishing, Guiding, and Educating Anglers with John Hudgens of the Anglers Academy
Hitting the high country in Utah! In a new video from WildFly Productions, anglers head off the beaten path to find trout in the mountains of Utah.
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
John Hudgens is an angler and guide who has had an impressive career in fly fishing. He is now focused on educating anglers through the Anglers Academy. In this episode of The Venturing Angler Podcast, John discusses his background and his passion for fly fishing education.
To learn more about the Anglers Academy, please click here.
And to check out the podcast, please click below or download our podcast on iTunes, Soundcloud, or Spotify:
John Hudgens is an angler and guide who has had an impressive career in fly fishing. He is now focused on educating anglers through the Anglers Academy. In this episode of The Venturing Angler Podcast, John discusses his background and his passion for fly fishing education.
The Texas Hill Country has some of the best bass fishing anywhere for fly anglers. In a video from Bajío, Jay Johnson takes a trip to this region to fly fish for bass.
From Bajío:
“Jay made it to Austin, Texas the hill country hub for public water, hungry fish, and innovative anglers. Enjoy!”
To check out more from Bajío, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON – The Clean Energy Minerals Reform Act, bicameral legislation that would modernize hardrock mining laws in the United States and fund the restoration of abandoned mines, was introduced this morning by House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Raul Grijalva (D-AZ) and Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM). The bills would make long-overdue updates to the 1872 General Mining Law, which has governed mining on U.S. public lands for more than 150 years.
The Clean Energy Minerals Reform Act would institute royalties and other fees on hardrock mining operations, requiring the industry to pay for its use of public resources. It not only would empower federal public land managers to protect important cultural areas, including Tribal areas; it would require them to consult with Tribes before permitting mining activities that would impact Tribal communities.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers has consistently worked to enact legislation that would reform the antiquated 1872 Mining Law and commended today’s announcement.
“The General Mining Act of 1872 is an outdated relic from another era – yet it remains current law that needs to be modernized so that we can comprehensively address negatively impacted public lands and waters, fish and wildlife and hunting and angling opportunities,” said John Gale, BHA vice president of policy and government relations. “We applaud the determination of our congressional leaders to advance meaningful mining laws that establish more responsible provisions to meet modern-day needs.
“Eliminating patenting provisions, cleaning up abandoned mines, establishing parity with other extractive industries that have been paying their way for years – these are overdue changes that the Clean Energy Minerals Reform Act would achieve,” Gale continued. “We have within our power as Americans to contribute to a legacy that would advance the long-term conservation of our shared resources while protecting important cultural resources and the future of our outdoor traditions. The time for this needed reform is at hand.”
Notably, the Clean Energy Minerals Reform Act would create a reclamation fund to implement the hardrock mining cleanup program established by the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This fund, the Hardrock Minerals Reclamation Fund, would invest in the cleanup of abandoned mines – more than a half-million of which are estimated to exist in the United States – using monies derived from royalties and fees.
More than 270 million acres of federal public lands – more than two-thirds of the entire U.S. public estate – are open to hardrock mining under the 1872 Mining Law. Learn more about BHA’s work to advance commonsense mining policy that balances the needs of industry with fish and wildlife habitat.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
From the Utah Stream Access Coalition:
Salt Lake City, Utah –
Today’s decision by the Utah Supreme Court ends a thirteen-year effort by the Utah Stream Access Coalition (the “Coalition”) to overturn the Public Waters Access Act of 2010 (the “PWAA”) and restore public access to Utah’s non-navigable rivers and streams. The Court ruled that the public’s access to these waterways, which the PWAA took away, is not rooted in or protected by the Utah State Constitution. Accordingly, the PWAA will stand.
While the Coalition is disappointed in the decision, it remains steadfast and measured in its mission. Today’s decision ends only one of several avenues by which the Coalition aims to restore public access to Utah’s rivers and streams. It will continue its efforts to have the State identify navigable waterways and declare them open to public recreational use, as it did successfully on the upper Weber River in 2017. And the Coalition will continue to
advocate for the repeal and/or amendment of the PWAA, which, contrary to its name, restricts the public’s ability to recreate on over 2,700 miles of Utah’s rivers and streams that comprise some 43% of Utah’s fishable waterways.
In 2015, the Coalition convinced Utah’s Third District Court that the uppermost 40 miles of the Weber River met the test of navigability based on evidence that the river was used for commercial purposes prior to Utah becoming a state. That ruling, which was affirmed by the Utah Supreme Court in 2017, means that the public has a right to use the beds and banks of the upper Weber River – and other navigable rivers in the State – for lawful recreational
purposes, in perpetuity.
The Coalition is committed to the principle that the waters flowing in all of Utah’s rivers and streams are owned by the public and therefore members of the public should have the right to make use of such waters for lawful recreational purposes, regardless of whether they are navigable or who holds title to the lands beneath them.
A new issue of The Mission dropped today with great destination content and more in this 110 page magazine. A feature on permit in Oman is among several highlights. Great photos, great stories and more in another stellar issue.
To check out the new issue of The Mission, please click here.
The story of an angler and guide on the Bow River in Alberta is told in “Happy Place” — a film from Hook & Anvil.
From Hook & Anvil:
“Happy Place is the story of Luke Russell, a fly fishing guide on the Bow River. Listen to his story as he struggles with self-doubt, anxiety and learns to overcome his obstacles by leaning on his love for fishing and the care and support of his friends and family.
This film is for anyone who has ever experienced anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges, it’s for those who experience doubt in their lives whether through themselves or the words/actions of others.
We all deserve to find our Happy Place”
To check out more from Hook & Anvil, please click here.
Campeche, Mexico is known for it’s juvenile tarpon fishing. This location and a father-son trip is the focus of a video from Bajío,
To check out more from Bajío, please click here.
From the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources:
SALT LAKE CITY — Blue Ribbon Fisheries are waterbodies that provide some of Utah’s most exceptional, high-quality fishing experiences. The program that designates and helps fund these fisheries recently allocated over $450,000 toward 17 projects aimed at enhancing these waterbodies so they retain their elite status.
There are currently 43 waterbodies and two mountain areas in Utah — streams, rivers and lakes on the Uinta mountains and on Boulder Mountain — that hold this Blue Ribbon status. The Blue Ribbon Fisheries program was created in 2001 by then-Gov. Mike Leavitt, and was formally established in 2005 through an executive order by then-Gov. Jon Huntsman.
“The program was created because Utah’s leaders recognized that fishing is one of the state’s most popular and economically valuable recreational activities,” Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Sportfish Coordinator Randy Oplinger said. “There was a need to improve fisheries in Utah and to recognize the best angling opportunities in the state. This program helps fulfill both of those needs.”
In order to be named a Blue Ribbon Fishery, a waterbody has to meet several requirements and provide highly satisfying fishing and recreational experiences for diverse groups of anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. The waterbodies are selected and reviewed by the Blue Ribbon Fisheries Advisory Council, which is made up of a representative committee of 13 anglers appointed by the governor.
“These waters are among the best fishing spots in Utah. They have been proven to provide not only great fishing, but also ideal habitat for the fish, economic benefits to the local communities, and an overall high-quality experience in the outdoors,” Oplinger said. “They offer high fishing success rates and usually have great amenities like boat ramps and fishing piers.”
High-quality fishing waterbodies are only one important part of the Blue Ribbon Fisheries program. The program also allocates funds for improvements to help maintain that quality experience and to allow other waterbodies to reach Blue Ribbon status. The advisory council selects improvement projects for various waterbodies each year, and those projects are then funded by a portion of Utah’s annual fishing license sales.
Seventeen projects were selected by the Blue Ribbon Fisheries Advisory Council this year, and they will be completed throughout 2023-24. The $450,000 in Blue Ribbon funding will be paired with other partner funds, totaling $1.3 million total toward these projects. Some of the projects include:
- Installing fish habitat at Pineview Reservoir:This project will install artificial habitat structures in the south arm of Pineview Reservoir, which will provide shelter from predators for young fish, particularly yellow perch and black crappie. The installation of this habitat should help increase the size of the perch and crappie in the reservoir, and will also indirectly benefit species such as tiger muskie that feed on the perch and crappie. Roughly $10,000 will be allocated to this project.
- Duchesne River bank stabilization:This project will help stabilize and decrease erosion on the bank of the Duchesne River, near Hanna. In its current state, the eroding bank is depositing sediment into the river, which is reducing the quality of the fish habitat in the area. Additional work in this stretch of the river will improve the overall quality of the habitat for the benefit of both fish and anglers. Roughly $25,000 will be allocated to this project.
- New bathroom at Strawberry Reservoir: This project will install new restroom facilities at the new Chicken Creek East parking area at Strawberry Reservoir. Roughly $42,000 will be allocated to this project.
Last year, 16 Blue Ribbon Fisheries projects and initiatives were completed. Over the past decade, the Blue Ribbon program has funded 173 projects and allocated $3.2 million toward improving these remarkable Utah fisheries. Due to partnerships and other funding options, a total of $26.3 million has been put toward Blue Ribbon Fisheries projects since 2012.
Holbox guide ‘Sandflea’ is Mexican guide as legendary as the waters he fishes. He is the focus of a video from Bajío.
From Bajío:
“A short about a Mexican pioneer and legend, Mr. Alejandro Vega Cruz aka ‘Sandflea.’ He built a business and a family on the island of Holbox. We got the chance to fish with him and decided to name a frame after him.”
To check out more from Bajío, please click here.
From Westbank Anglers:
WILSON, Wyo. (May 8, 2023) — Westbank Anglers is pleased to announce that their grand reopening will take place on Friday, May 12, 2023. After several months of closure, Westbank Anglers is excited to unveil new renovations to their fly shop in Wilson, Wyoming.
A local partnership purchased Westbank Anglers at the end of 2022, and they have since taken on a comprehensive remodel while exploring new partnerships with gear manufacturers and other upgrades and additions to come.
“We look forward to preserving the legacy of the brand in its current location, while expanding offerings,” says Mike Dawes, Westbank’s managing partner. “One of those offerings is complete and we are extremely excited to open up the newly remodeled fly shop on May 12.”
The grand reopening will be from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, May 12, with food and drinks available from 3-7 p.m., with Roadhouse offering local beer. Westbank Anglers will also welcome guests and representatives from Farbank, Umpqua, Montana Fly Company, Airflo, and Patagonia. Patagonia will also bring some gear to raffle.
The team at Westbank Anglers is eager to see familiar faces and meet new friends at their grand reopening event while showcasing new gear and engaging in plenty of conversations about fly fishing in the region and throughout the world.
About Westbank Anglers:
Westbank Anglers opened in Jackson Hole in 1986 and has served as a premier fly shop, guide service, and travel agency in the decades since. Westbank Anglers offers guided fly fishing trips on the Snake, South Fork, Green, and New Fork rivers in addition to Yellowstone National Park and other area waters.For more information about Westbank Anglers, please visit their website and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Spring creek action in Montana’s Madison Valley! A new one from Catch Magazine …
From Catch Magazine:
“Small creeks are where I enjoy spending my time filming fly fishing during the spring months in Montana. The big insect hatches that can take place bring the big trout up to the surface making it possible to capture incredible footage. It’s what I love to do as a cinematographer. Watch good friend Pete Corbett throw long leaders to large brown trout, rainbow trout and cutthroat trout during Montana’s spring PMD hatch. It really doesn’t get much better than this.”
To check out more from Todd Moen and Catch Magazine, please click here.
From Riversmith:
Riversmith just announced the introduction and availability of the Swiftcast, a modular fly rod holder for fishing rafts – purpose built to protect your fly rod. If you’re looking to replace your do-it-yourself rod holder or interested in making modifications to your raft and frame this year, you might want to check this out.
Important Order & Shipping Information: Swiftcast Rod Holders can be ordered today with immediate shipping.
The Swiftcast was designed and manufactured to solve a problem that many raft anglers face on the water: how to fish as efficiently as possible while protecting a fly rod that is not being used. This versatile rod holder was designed for quick assembly out of the box and can be mounted and deployed to almost any rafting frame. You can use one or more Swiftcast Rod Holders on your boat depending on how many rods need to be stored and they can be mounted universally and configured for your particular needs.
Here are a few design features that caught our attention.
• Universal mounting for most standard 12′-15′ raft frame and sizes
• Holds 10ft rods up to 10 weight (dependent on configuration)
• Total unit weight: 7.5 lbs
• Elastic cord for 100% security in rapids
• Attach inside or outside of oar tower on most frames (See mounting configuration guide for mounting options and additional hardware required)
• Can be paired together in-line or bi-directional
• Curved or straight tube add-ons available for non-standard boat and frame sizes
The Swiftcast is designed for standard raft and frame configurations for traditional rafts that are between 12′-15′ in length. For rafts that are smaller, larger, or have a narrow profile please review Riversmith’s recommended components that you can order, please refer to our “configuration guide/table” that is located on the Swiftcast Product Page.
Here is additional information to learn more about the Swiftcast Rod Holder as well as a short video that highlights assembly and mounting of the Swiftcast.
Riversmith is a company built on the principles of engineering solutions for the avid fly fisherman. Designed and assembled in Boulder, CO, our products are built for those who expect the finest craftsmanship and performance out of their gear. Our flagship product, the River Quiver, will keep you locked, loaded and ready to fish. Riversmith is proud to continue to expand our top-quality products and accessories for those who love to spend time on the water fly fishing. With Swiftcast you can enjoy life in the current.
riversmith
riggedandready
lifeinthecurrent
riversmithusa
In a new video from From WildFly Productions, Anglers head to Montana in search of trout and the famous skwala hatch that gets these fish to recklessly attack the surface and gorge on big bugs.
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
DENVER, Colo. – As the Colorado Supreme Court takes up consideration of Hill v. Warsewa, a lawsuit that has the potential to drastically change public access to the state’s waters, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is continuing to fight for the interests of public lands hunters, anglers and others who rely on our shared lands and waters in the Centennial State.
The proceedings unfolding now in the state supreme court are the latest step in plaintiff Roger Hill’s battle to rightfully access his favorite fishing hole in a case that by extension could provide clarity to the public’s right to access the state’s navigable waterways.
BHA and two of its partners, American Whitewater and the Colorado River Outfitters Association, have filed an amicus brief in the case. The brief argues that without Hill’s case proceeding, Colorado will fail to do what other Western states have already done: actually engage with the question of navigability and open and sustain access opportunities to the public.
Don Holmstrom, a Colorado BHA member, has been coordinating the chapter’s response to this important public access case and is attending the court proceedings.
“BHA has taken action to support Hill’s legal fight from early in the litigation,” Holmstrom said. “A large part of Colorado’s outdoor economy depends on recreation related to public waters. Expanding access creates significant economic opportunities. Improved access to public waters also is one of the best outdoor pathways for communities where recreational opportunities historically have been challenging.”
Hill, a resident of Salida, Colorado, has fished the Arkansas River in southern Colorado for decades.
“Respondent Roger Hill, an 81-year-old fly fisherman, has a real, concrete, and particularized dispute with Defendants Warsewa and Joseph (the ‘Individual Defendants’),” the complaint reads. “Hill would like to return to his favorite fishing hole on the Arkansas River (the ‘River’) without facing the risk of violence, civil suit, or arrest. But the Individual Defendants, who undisputedly own the land adjacent to the River, have assaulted Hill with baseball-sized rocks and threatened him with prosecution for trespass. The Individual Defendants even shot at Hill’s friend who was fishing while wading on the disputed riverbed. As a result, Hill cannot safely return to the River to fish without first having his rights, and the Individual Defendants’ rights, clarified.”
To date, the state of Colorado has failed to affirm the public’s right to access to the state’s navigable waterways. Instead, the state has sided with private landowners who have taken extreme steps to block access from rivers and streams, including “death trap” metal obstacles, barbed wire, and other aggressive measures that place recreators in dangerous situations. This “status quo” fails to recognize the importance of navigability and access to the tens of thousands of individuals each year who access Colorado’s rivers to fish, raft or simply enjoy the natural beauty.
“American Whitewater advocates for the public’s right and privilege of floating on rivers that flow through public and private lands across the country,” said Hattie Johnson, Southern Rockies stewardship director for American Whitewater. “Mr. Hill’s case in front of the state Supreme Court provides an important opportunity to public river users to have a say in clarifying their rights to use the amazing rivers of our state.”
As this case continues, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is committed to fighting for public access and the rights of hunters, anglers, floaters and recreators across the nation. For more information on BHA’s position on Hill v. Warsewa, read the full brief.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
From Guiding for the Future:
Wells, ME (May 2, 2023) — Guiding for the Future is expanding! Keep Fish Wet, Fishing Outfitters Association of Montana, and the Maine Department of Marine Resources have partnered to bring the Guiding for the Future (G4F) program to Maine with a focus on striped bass. G4F is an innovative program designed by experienced guides and outdoor professionals. By strengthening the knowledge, professionalism, and ethics of fishing guides, the goal of G4F is to raise the standards, conduct, and conservation practices of the entire industry to help protect our waters for years to come. The combination of an online and in-person curriculum rich in science, management, and stewardship is designed to strengthen fishing guides’ knowledge, professionalism, and ethics.
“We are delighted to be working with Keep Fish Wet and the Maine Department of Marine Resources to expand G4F beyond our waters in Montana,” Says Sean Blaine, co-founder of G4F, “from the beginning we always envisioned G4F as a mechanism to raise the standards of guiding and conservation across all water, whether you guide for trout, stripers, or bonefish.”
“I am very pleased to be partnering with G4F and Keep Fish Wet to help advance their work by developing a program specifically for Maine guides” said DMR Commissioner Patrick Keliher. “The course they have developed offers insight into the science and management of striped bass, and offers tremendous value to those who wish to expand their knowledge of how to best steward and advocate for this important fishery.”
The inaugural G4F Maine, including participation for the course and room and board for the in-person practicum, is fully funded by the Maine Department of Marine Resources using funding made available through the Consolidated Appropriations Act. Any Maine tidewater guide is eligible to apply for this free program and must be able to complete the online component of the program as well as attend the practicum in Wells, ME from May 23-25.
To apply, visit guidingforthefuture.org/apply-maine/
A video from BBC Earth looks at efforts to protect wild salmon in Bristol Bay, Alaska.
From BBC Earth:
“A unique relationship is changing in Alaska. In her film ‘Salmon Reflection’ Norwegian and Unangax̂ filmmaker Anna Hoover explores the effects of a changing world on the communities of Bristol Bay, one of the last surviving wild salmon ecosystems. #OurFrozenPlanet tells stories of communities on the frontlines of the climate crisis – inspiring hope that change is possible”
To check out more from BBC Earth, please click here.
From RIO Products:
Like to swing flies, bombers, and wets for angry Atlantic Salmon? Or maybe you’re a die-hard chrome chaser in the Pacific Northwest. Either way if you’re looking for the best single-hand line for swinging flies with an accurate and delicate presentation, RIO’s redesigned Elite Salmon/Steelhead line is for you.
RIO’s Elite Salmon/Steelhead line, initially designed to meet the demands of the modern single-hand salmon and steelhead fly angler, is now coated with RIO’s proprietary SlickCast coating. The taper has long been a favorite of the RIO Products team. It was advanced by RIO’s co-founder and eminent fly fishing innovator, Jim Vincent, who is commemorated on the box for his contributions and life-long passion for fly fishing.
The Elite Salmon/Steelhead is known for its long head and rear taper which allows anglers to mend and control the fly at great distance when fishing the swing. A powerful bullet front taper ensures the line easily handles large steelhead and salmon flies, while the rear weight distribution makes this a great line for single handed Spey casting. Featuring ConnectCore Plus and SlickCast this line handles like a dream, shooting farther, and with increased sensitivity for feeling even the slightest take. Give the new Elite Salmon/Steelhead a swing, present the fly exactly how you want it, and hold on for the next explosive grab.
This taper was a favorite of Jim’s who used it to pursue Atlantic Salmon and steelhead all over the world. “Over the years that I worked for Jim, I found him to be an inspirational, creatively brilliant, and innovative person – someone who was incredibly passionate about the sport and the products RIO bought to market. We swung for steelhead in BC together, stalked trout on the local Idaho rivers, and fished for Atlantic salmon in Quebec. Jim was a good caster, and a great angler, but always wanted to be better.”
– Far Bank Education & Engagement Manager Simon Gawesworth
TECHNOLOGIES:
- ConnectCore Plus – Low-stretch core that provides an increase in durability, smoothness, and performance
- SlickCast – Exceptionally slick finish, and a super tough coating to keep you on the water
FEATURES:
- DualTone – Provides obvious color change in the line at the sweet spot for casting
- EasyID – Printed line marking system allows anglers to easily identify line
- Front & Back Welded Loop
Line Sizes:
WF6F, WF7F, WF8F, WF9F, WF10F
MSRP: $99.99
LINK: https://farbank.com/products/rio-elite-salmon-steelhead
About RIO:
In 1990, Jim and Kitty Vincent founded RIO in the mountains of Idaho on the idea that exceptional fly-fishing products should be built by anglers for anglers. More than twenty-five years later, we’re still in Idaho and driven by that same ethos. Most of us here are passionate fly-fishing anglers, wading all day in cold, clear Idaho trout streams, lighting delicate dries and heaving huge streamers – hooking, (losing), landing, turning loose fish after fish… We won’t even mention the horror of having to battle tarpon after bonefish after permit in the balmy turquoise tropics or braving the wrath of angry chrome in BC.
From Patagonia:
We tasked our team with an impossible job—rethink waders from the ground up. Make them lighter, stronger and more versatile while using durable recycled materials that never need to see a landfill. In short, we wanted tomorrow’s waders today.
They delivered. The game-changing Patagonia Swiftcurrent Ultralight Waders are the most innovative waders on the water. Engineered with 4-layer face fabrics in a design that sheds bulk and reduces abrasion, they’re impossibly lightweight and tough, weighing only 36 ounces. These river-tested, breathable fabrics employ an exclusive patterning that delivers a non-baggy fit that moves athletically in and out of the water. Groundbreaking, vacuum-molded, 3D-formed booties cut ounces and offer just enough stretch to ensure a comfortable fit. Cramped, sweaty feet are a thing of the past.
Swiftcurrent Ultralight features include:
- 4-layer, 70% recycled face bonded to a 100% recycled polyester backer, with a waterproof/breathable barrier and a DWR (durable water repellent) finish in a design that sheds bulk and reduces abrasion.
- Quick-drying, comfortable vacuum-molded 3D-formed booties.
- Easy-to-use suspender system with integrated gear docks quickly convert to waist-highs.
- Internal waterproof pocket.
- Black Hole scuff guards for added toughness
“Building no-nonsense, no-compromise gear made for a long life has been our guiding principle for more than 50 years,” said Matt Millette, Patagonia Fly Fish head of marketing. “With the Ultralights, we’re using recycled fabrics and a bootie that eliminates neoprene. Not only are these materials better for the planet, they’re simply better materials. They’re light, tough and comfortable. If you’ve been trapped in stiff, baggy, heavy waders, the Ultralights will be a revelation.”
Over the last five years, Patagonia has granted more than $6 million to conservation groups protecting wild fish and clean water. These organizations reconnect our rivers, oppose the wasteful futility of hatcheries and deadbeat dams and fight the open net-pen salmon farming disaster. Our rivers, oceans and fish were born wild. We vow to keep them that way.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON – Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is strongly criticizing four bills in the House of Representatives that take aim at the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Great American Outdoors Act, the bipartisan law that ensures continued LWCF funding.
Together the four bills would hamstring the ability of public land management agencies to strategically acquire areas of important fish and wildlife habitat and places key to public access. H.R. 2207, H.R. 2158 and H.R. 2169 would defund the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Park Service public land acquisition via LWCF funds. H.R. 2153 would severely limit the Bureau of Land Management from acquiring public land with a funding cap of $28 million, less than half of the proposed budget. Prohibiting these agencies from using all of LWCF’s tools will lead to management inefficiencies and preclude critical investments that expand public access.
Hunters and anglers, including BHA members and supporters, have played a key role in sustaining LWCF, America’s most popular and successful conservation and access program. BHA members helped achieve passage, in 2019, of the bipartisan Dingell Act, which permanently reauthorizes LWCF, and subsequently, passage of the Great American Outdoors Act in 2020. With strong, bipartisan support led by Republicans and Democrats, the Great American Outdoors Act was advanced by three quarters of members of Congress and signed into law by President Trump – a strong supporter of the program. GAOA secures full, permanent funding for LWCF at $900 million annually, guaranteeing the program’s continued ability to conserve important habitat and recreational lands and waters all across America.
“Together, hunters and anglers have notched some critical wins for conservation in recent years,” said John Gale, BHA vice president of policy and government relations, “but our constant vigilance is critical, as there will always be forces trying to take away those victories. Today, we stand united in opposing legislation that would steal one of our greatest gains for conservation yet this century, and today, we remain committed to keeping Land and Water Conservation Fund dollars working on behalf of conservation, public access and our hard-won outdoor traditions.
“The Land and Water Conservation Fund exists today because millions of Americans – including BHA members who called and emailed our elected officials, outdoors advocates who raised their voices, businesses that leveraged their influence and elected leaders who joined from both sides of the aisle – worked together relentlessly,” Gale continued. “The story of LWCF is a story of American democracy, of shared commitment in the name of public lands, conservation and access. Together we must act as sentinels to defend our victories – and ensure the future of our outdoor heritage.”
Since its inception in 1964, LWCF has funded 40,000-plus projects and provided access to millions of acres of public lands, all without spending taxpayer dollars. Places ranging from Tenderfoot Creek, Montana, to Louisiana’s Bayou Sauvage depend on LWCF to support local economies, enhance hunting and fishing opportunities, and maintain quality habitat for elk, pintail ducks, trout, and other game species that thrive on our public lands and waters.
BHA members are speaking out in opposition of H.R. 2207, 2158, 2169 and 2153 and in support of LWCF.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
From Bonefish & Tarpon Trust:
Miami, FL – Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) scientists have successfully located and documented a bonefish pre-spawning aggregation (PSA) in the Florida Keys. The discovery is the first of its kind in Florida waters and the culmination of a years-long search that utilized acoustic telemetry and the historical knowledge of veteran fishing guides.
“This is a major discovery for the Florida Keys fishery,” said BTT President and CEO Jim McDuffie. “BTT has previously identified PSAs in several other countries, but Florida sites remained elusive—until now. By locating this PSA, our scientists will be able to learn more about where and how bonefish spawn in the Florida Keys, which is information critical to the sustained recovery of the population.”
Over the course of the 2022-2023 bonefish spawning season, which spans from October to April, BTT Florida Keys Initiative Manager Dr. Ross Boucek and his team tracked 67 fish and logged more than 94,000 detections. Many of these detections were in the area where BTT research during the 2021-2022 season and reports from fishing guides indicated a likely PSA. Fourteen bonefish detected at the suspected PSA site had been tagged at distant flats, including two fish tagged 55 miles away.
The newly discovered PSA comprises approximately 2,000 to 5,000 fish and is located three to four miles offshore along a reef. Previously documented PSAs in the Bahamas and Belize are located in nearshore waters.
“It is encouraging to see that our bonefish population in Florida has recovered to a point now where big spawning aggregations can form,” said Boucek. “It’s our job to make sure that these fish can keep spawning for years to come. We can do this by protecting the habitats that support these aggregations, reducing human stresses from boat traffic and other on-water activities that could disrupt their spawn, and most importantly improving water quality. Harmful contaminants in the water have been shown to affect fish reproduction. We will continue to let science lead the way by determining what actions need to happen to keep bonefish spawning safe and happy.”
At the site, BTT scientists also observed bonefish gulping air at the surface. Previous research shows that bonefish engage in this behavior before spawning to fill their swim bladders. At night, the fish dive hundreds of feet and rapidly ascend to the surface. The sudden change in pressure during the ascent makes their swim bladders expand, enabling the bonefish to release their eggs and sperm. After fertilization takes place, the hatched larvae drift in the ocean’s currents before settling in shallow sand- or mud-bottom bays, where they develop into juvenile bonefish.
“As a Keys fishing guide for 53 years, with a science background, I took bonefish for granted—they were what I fished for every day,” said Captain Rick Ruoff, member of the BTT Board of Directors. “I thought that I knew all about the resource; until the population crashed. I discovered neither I, nor anyone else, knew where or how bonefish spawned—a major gap in our knowledge. BTT has come up with the amazing science to determine the dynamics of bonefish spawning. It has been a great lesson to me that we have located this missing piece of the puzzle. To have a healthy population and management goals, you have to understand all aspects of your resource. I am so proud to be part of the BTT science effort that has unraveled these bonefish mysteries, and will witness their rebound.”
About Bonefish & Tarpon Trust
Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s mission is to conserve bonefish, tarpon and permit—the species, their habitats and the larger fisheries they comprise. BTT pursues this mission across the southeastern US, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea through science-based conservation, education and advocacy.
From Bighorn River Alliance:
Fort Smith, MT: As Montana rivers prepare for the annual influx of trout seeking anglers, one local nonprofit group is capitalizing on the pre-run-off bustle to educate anglers about steps they can take to protect the next generation of trout. The Bighorn River Alliance (BHRA) has brought “Mind the Redd” to the banks of the Bighorn River.
Mind the Redd is a movement that educates anglers about wild trout reproduction (where and when fish spawn) to help reduce negative angling impacts on sensitive spawning grounds and actively spawning fish. “The whole idea is to promote appreciative understanding of an anglers place in the health of the waters they fish using messaging, beyond regulations, in the spirit and care for wild trout,” says movement founder Ben Helgeson.
The Bighorn River Alliance agrees. “The Bighorn River, like all rivers in the state, depends on successful wild trout reproduction, not the stocking of hatchery raised fish, to replenish brown and rainbow trout populations” explains executive director Anne Marie Emery.
When trout spawn it is common to see them stacked up in locations where habitat is suitable for them to build redds, or nests, to lay their eggs. During this time female trout use their tails to build a depression in the gravel where they deposit up to 4,000 pea sized eggs. The eggs are then fertilized by a male trout and covered with gravel, where they remain until emergence.
“It is from the time you start seeing fish congregated in certain areas, through the time until the eggs hatch and young trout (fry) emerge, that anglers should use caution with where they throw a line, wade, or anchor up” states Emery. “While it can be exciting to see lots of large trout congregated in an area, it is important for anglers to pause and consider the amount energy spawning trout need to finish reproduction successfully.”
BHRA created signs that outline how anglers can be mindful during the Bighorn trout spawning period and worked with guides to place them at access sites and fly shops. Each sign has a Q Code, which when scanned with a phone, directs anglers to a BHRA blogpost that uses drone photography and video to explain more about how to identify when and where Bighorn trout spawn. BHRA hopes that by adopting a Mind the Redd mindset, anglers will be encouraged to do their part to let spawning trout be.
Website | Facebook
From Bajío:
NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla. (April 20, 2023) – Bajío Sunglasses, maker of blue-light filtering, sustainably-made, performance sunglasses that are built to save the world’s saltwater flats and estuaries, is proud to announce that it has officially added Ozello to its spring 2023 collection. This new style was named after one of their biggest supporters and friends at Ozello Keys Marina.
Sunglasses are the heart of Bajío, which provides customers with lightweight, bio-resin frames featuring proprietary LAPIS lens technology. Named for one of our favorite spots in Old Florida, where Grouper Gary braves hazardous wilderness waterways to help hook you up with gag grouper creeping out of spring-fed crevices in the limestone, Ozello is an aggressive fishing style frame with extra wide sun-blocking temples for long, exposed days out in Ozello Keys – and beyond.
“We named this frame after our friends over at Ozello Keys Marina. Grouper Gary and the gang live in Old Florida and have been huge supporters of ours since day one”, says Al Perkinson, Founder of Bajio. “We wanted to name our 2023 collection after bajios (saltwater flats) we know and love in our home state. Last year Jay, from our YouTube series Fishing with Jay, shot an episode where the Ozello boys showed him the secret shallows where they caught gag grouper on the fly.”
Ozello frames are made from plant-based bio-resin that biodegrades quickly and is gentler on our oceans. They are stronger and lighter than plastic frames, which equates to all-day comfort whether you’re out fishing or at the fiesta. The Ozello frame is a small fitting with extra wide sun-blocking temples. It has an aggressive, youthful look making it perfect for long, exposed days out in the sun. Additionally, the temples feature keeper holes, vented rubber side shields, and two-way flex hinges for added comfort.
For a fully-customizable eyewear experience, Ozello is available in thirteen lens options: seven lens colors made from lightweight, bio-based polycarbonate, and six made from glass. Both polycarbonate and glass lenses feature durable anti-scratch properties and oleophobic coatings, which make sunscreen and water easy to remove. All Bajío lenses feature the brand’s polarized proprietary LAPIS technology, and each lens is designed for specific light conditions and environments. Bajío lenses offer exceptional clarity and provide a visual experience that is second to none.
Ozello is now available for purchase at your local eyewear retailer or online at bajiosunglasses.com/products/ozello. For more information about Bajío’s full collection of award-winning performance fishing sunglasses, visit bajiosunglasses.com.
From NEMO:
{Dover, NH—April 24, 2023}—NEMO, the award-winning, independent designer of outdoor gear and accessories built to improve the adventure experience, has created its first recyclable sleeping bag with the updated Forte Men’s and Women’s 20F/35F series. It is also the first product in NEMO’s Endless Promise series, which represents a key step toward the brand’s goal to cut emissions intensity in half by 2030. With this new collection, NEMO is taking responsibility for the entire life cycle of each product. Every Endless Promise item is designed to be repairable, resellable, and — most crucially — recyclable to keep it out of the landfill.
To make an immediate impact with this collection, NEMO took its existing top-selling, 3-season Spoon shape synthetic sleeping bag and redesigned it using just a single material family. Now 100% recyclable, the 2023 Forte is a standout in sustainability as well as comfort and performance.
- The Classic Spoon shape continues to be a game changer for side sleepers, offering more room at the shoulders and knees for a less-constricted feel.
- Upgraded Thermo Gill vents feature a new multistage zipper system that dramatically increases the usable temperature range of the bag and allows for fine-tuning of comfort.
- Oversized Blanket Fold insulated draft collar provides comfort and temperature regulation.
- Integrated pillow pocket perfectly fits NEMO’s Fillo pillow or extra clothes.
- Full-length double-slider YKK zipper with plow makes getting in and out a breeze.
- A material suite including: Recycled liner; bluesign® approved shell fabric; and Zerofiber PCR insulation (made from 100% post-consumer recycled materials) that packs down small while maintaining loft and warmth, even when wet.
Endless Promise is NEMO’s commitment to reduce resource consumption and keep gear out of the landfill. All Endless Promise products are painstakingly designed to be mono-polymer in order to be easily, fully recyclable at the end of their usable life. The new line of Forte bags can be sent to NEMO for resale or recycling; customers will receive a NEMO gift card for the resale value if the bag is in good enough condition for a new owner or, if the bag has reached the end of its adventures, a $20 NEMO gift card as thanks for recycling. NEMO has partnered with Unifi, a leading textile recycler, to turn spent Fortes into Repreve® polyester yarns so each Endless Promise product can live on, endlessly, as a new item.
“From the start, NEMO has produced only products that deserve their place in the world by being truly different and better than what already exists,” said NEMO CEO and founder, Cam Brensinger. “We do this because we’re hyper-aware of the resources required—and waste created—by manufacturing. In our earliest years, we introduced the “Ditto” program, which upcycled production samples and manufacturing rejects turned into (now, highly coveted) wallets and totes. In 2009, we also launched the first recycled fabric tent with bamboo poles. With our Endless Promise Collection, we’re not just being mindful, we’re taking 100% responsibility for our products, long after they’re sold.”
The updated Forte Men’s and Women’s bags are available on NEMO’s site now and will be at retailers worldwide in June 2023.
NEMO has also just published its first annual Sustainability Report recapping the brand’s efforts in 2022 towards its goal of cutting its emissions intensity in half by 2030. Through key areas—Design & Innovation, Responsible Sourcing, Carbon Accountability, Advocacy for People and the Planet, and Corporate Governance—NEMO is using Science Based Targets to reach its goal and create products that are not only better for the planet, but superior in performance.
About NEMO
NEMO is a New Hampshire-based outdoor gear company known for creating award-winning products that are built to last, comfortable, and fun to use. Named one of Outside Magazine’s and Business New Hampshire’s Best Places to Work, NEMO has also been recognized as a small business leader for the environment by New Hampshire Businesses for Social Responsibility. NEMO’s reputation for design innovation across its product lines—tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, camp accessories, and furniture—is an outgrowth of its design philosophy to never bring anything to market that doesn’t offer a meaningfully better experience. NEMO’s team of designers and engineers are motivated by a passion for outdoor adventure and sustainability.
Adventure Anywhere. Adventure for Anyone. Adventure Forever.
Redington has a long history of making good, reliable gear at great prices. Their Crosswater reel has been a longtime favorite for many anglers. They’ve now announced a new redesigned Crosswater fly reel.
From Redington:
Redington’s redesigned Crosswater fly reel offers style and function an at affordable price. Whether you’re just getting into fly fishing for the first time, or in need of a refresh that’s both durable and efficient, the no-nonsense features of the Crosswater make the choice easy. The unique design is constructed from durable polymer and features a newly upgraded fully carbon disc drag system that offers reliable fish-stopping performance and smoother startup. The composite reel prioritizes a lightweight design, minimizing casting fatigue, and won’t weigh you down while traveling or trekking up stream. The large-notched drag knob makes for easy drag adjustment in the heat of the fight.
The Crosswater comes in the two most popular sizes in fly fishing—a freshwater (4/5/6) and an all water (7/8/9) wt. The 4/5/6 freshwater is perfect for everything trout, small bass, and panfish. The 7/8/9 all water is best for sport fish like salmon, large bass, stripers, and redfish in the Southeast. The Crosswater is available as both a stand alone reel or a pre-spooled reel that comes lined with 5wt or 8wt RIO Mainstream lines and dacron backing – rigged and ready for action.
“I’m stoked that we’ve redesigned the Crosswater reel. Sometimes, simple is just better. To have an affordable reel option that still includes a carbon drag, is a killer deal for anyone looking to get into fly fishing, or have a reel that brings performance and value.” – Ethan Law, Redington Community Manager
Features:
- Durable composite frame and spool
- Easy to change spool
- Carbon disc-drag
- Large arbor for quicker retrieve
- Notched drag knob for easy adjustment
- Easy left to right hand retrieve conversion
- Cloth reel bag
- 1-year warranty
Specs:
4/5/6
- 5.0 (OZ)
- 100 yards/20lb backing
- 1.5” width
- 3.5” diameter
7/8/9
- 5.5 (OZ)
- 150 yards/30lb backing
- 1.6” width
- 3.9” diameter
Product video: https://youtu.be/SzDgJzKIJZY
Check it out here: https://farbank.com/collections/redington-crosswater-reel-freshwater
MSRP: $64.99
Spool: $32.50
About Redington:
At Redington it’s about experiencing the sport of fly fishing through a non-traditional lens and engaging anglers and non-anglers alike. It’s with this in mind that we create our product lines. Redington designs fly fishing gear for adventure. Exploring the past, present and future of the sport—redefining how it could be better, more accessible, and intuitive. We visualize everyone’s needs when exploring designs to bring quality performance products that are approachable on all sides of the equation, from aesthetics to price.
A video from Ocean & Land captures scenes from fly fishing in the Scandinavian mountains …
From Ocean & Land:
“Flow is a state of mind in which a person becomes fully immersed in an activity. A flow state can be defined as a sort of effortless attention. Fly fishing can completely absorbed space and time and put you in a state of flow.
Thanks to all my friends who shared the flow with me, fishing in the beautiful Scandinavian mountains.”
To check out more from Ocean & Land, please click here.
Fall streamer action in Montana! Some great footage of fly fishing on the Missouri River …
From The Fly Project:
“Fall in Montana means two things, unpredictable weather and streamer fishing. We don’t often throw Kelly Galloup patterns, but we carry almost the entire lineup of K.G. flies on our website flyproject.us. If you don’t know the name Kelly Galloup, let me fill you in. He is a world-renowned fly tyer and angler. He resides in Cameron, Montana and the owner of the famous “Galloup’s Slide Inn”. He is most famous for developing possibly the most effective streamer patterns of all time. Fred talks streamer season and what our optimal setups are come this time of year.”
To check out more from The Fly Project, please click here.
Friend of The Venturing Angler, Will Phelps, made his way to the Zambezi River recently where he took on African tigerfish on the fly.
From Will Phelps:
“The Mighty Zambezi is one of Africa’s great rivers. You can find hippos, crocs, elephants, along many other creatures. However, we are here for what swims within the deep channels- The African tigerfish. Tigerfish are predatory freshwater fish, known widely for their interlocking, razor-sharp teeth. They have streamlined, muscular bodies, and are extremely aggressive predators who often hunt in groups.”
To check out more from Will Phelps, please click here.
When it comes to global fly fishing destinations, there’s nothing like what is offered from the team over at Eleven Angling. From Chile to New Zealand and more, Eleven’s destinations are unparalleled. To give a glimpse into their fly fishing experiences, they recently released the first issue of their magazine that highlights their destinations. There is some pretty impressive photography in this inaugural issue!
To check out Issue No. 1 of The Drift, please click here.
Exciting flats action in the Seychelles! In FARQUHAR, anglers take on some of the most exciting fish on the flats.
From In the Loop:
“Farquhar Atoll, a hidden gem nestled in the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean, beckons with its turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches. A haven for adventurous anglers, this remote atoll in the Seychelles is a fly fishing paradise, where the pearlescent flats teem with an impressive array of game fish, including giant trevally, bumphead parrotfish, permit, bonefish, and triggerfish.
As you approach the atoll by airplane, the sheer beauty of Farquhar Atoll leaves you breathless. The atoll emerges from the horizon like a pearl in the ocean, a mesmerizing sight that sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure – and as you touch down, you’re filled with anticipation for the fly fishing exploits that lie ahead.
In the Loop Magazine’s latest film is a poignant and inspiring tale of family, adventure, and fishing. Join Jon Pageler as he journeys to Farquhar Atoll with his sister and dad, driven by a heartfelt mission to catch a giant trevally in honor of his cousin Chuck, who tragically passed away from Covid-19 prior to the trip – and learn more about Farquhar Atoll and its pristine flats fishery along the way.”
To check out the new issue of In the Loop Magazine, please click here.
Fall fly fishing for Atlantic salmon in Scotland is the focus of a video from SPATE.
From SPATE:
“Autumn in Scotland is when you’ll see the biggest fish of the year caught. Big male salmon affectionately known as ‘Croc’s’ become very aggressive just before spawning, giving the angler a rare chance to hook into some of the biggest fish of the year. Join Lana Richardson and Colin Macleod as they go searching in 3 of Scotlands finest rivers for big Salmon.”
To check out more from SPATE, please click here.
In “Dawson” — a new film coming to the Montana Fishing Film Festival — an angler pursues his passions with his best friend by his side.
To check out more from Western Pictures, please click here.
Anglers explore more than just the rivers in Norway in “KARTAN” — a “film about life and fly fishing.” A well done video with some great footage from a special fly fishing destination.
To check out more from these filmmakers, please click here.
The Green River is an iconic river that draws anglers from all over the world. In a video from Flycraft, anglers take on the trout of the Green.
From Flycraft:
“We take the new Stealth 2.0 from FLYCRAFT down the famous Green River in Utah. Fly fishing in the beautiful colored water and under the tall red rock cliffs. We hunt for brown trout and hook into some amazing rainbow trout. This river is famous for a reason.”
To check out more from Flycraft USA, please click here.
California is known for having strong runs of steelhead and salmon in the northern corners of the state, but not too long ago, California’s salmon and steelhead ran a bit further south. Steelhead now trickle into the San Francisco Bay area, and one major obstacle to these fish is the Stanford owned Searsville dam that is considered by many to be a “deadbeat dam” that provides very little value. The US Army Corps of Engineers and the CA Department of Water Resources are taking public comments to consider removing the dam. This would be a big win for steelhead.
To add your voice, please click here.
From Costa:
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (April 4, 2023) – Costa Sunglasses, manufacturer of the first color-enhancing all-polarized glass sunglass lens, celebrates 40 years of making the best sunglasses on the water in 2023 by growing its hybrid category of frames. New to the lineup for the spring, Mainsail and Aleta are your day-to-day sunglasses that stay stylish while relaxed on land and ready to perform while out on the water.
Building off of the success of Costa’s hybrid category – frames that blend performance features with everyday style – Mainsail (unisex) and Aleta (women’s) are built with the same high-quality materials and features you want from the beach to the big blue. The versatile new frames are just at home reeling in a fish as they are checking surf breaks, voyaging to a remote atoll or exploring a coastal village.
Inspired by the watery world Costa is synonymous with, Mainsail gets its name from the mainsail on a sailboat, and Aleta, from the Spanish word for “fin.” Staying true to their roots, Mainsail and Aleta maintain a relaxed look and feel, while their technical features are ready for anything the water throws at you. Integrated micro side shields and hooding help keep additional light out for an improved view, the vented Hydrolite nose pad keeps your frames locked in place and helps prevent fogging, sweat management channels and eyewire drains keep sweat out of your eyes, and keeper-ready temples keep your frames from going overboard.
“Our new hybrid category is our most versatile. It has it all, water-ready performance and a stylish, modern design,” says John Acosta, Costa Sunglasses Vice President of Marketing NA. “We took the performance features that Costa is famous for and added them to a more relaxed frame shape that is equally comfortable and durable on any adventure.”
Mainsail and Aleta come with Costa’s polarized, color-enhancing 580® lens technology for next-level clarity. The scratch-resistant lens cuts haze and blur and enhances key colors for superior clarity and definition. Built better with Bio-Resin, Mainsail and Aleta are lightweight and maintain the durability necessary for any watery adventure.
Adventure is fluid, and Mainsail and Aleta are there for the ride. Starting at $182, both are currently available at local dealers or Costasunglasses.com. For more information about Costa’s full collection of best-selling sunglasses, visit Costasunglasses.com.
About Costa Sunglasses
As the first manufacturer of color-enhancing all-polarized glass sunglass lenses, Costa combines superior lens technology with unparalleled fit and durability. Costa has made the highest quality, best-performing sunglasses and prescription sunglasses (Rx) for outdoor enthusiasts since 1983, and now its product portfolio includes optical frames. Costa’s growing cult-brand status ties directly to its purpose to provide high-quality products with a focus on sustainability and conservation as the company works hard to protect the waters it calls home. From the use of sustainable and water-friendly materials to its Kick Plastic initiative, IndiFly Foundation, and meaningful partnerships with mission-aligned organizations, Costa encourages people to help protect the Earth’s natural resources in any way they can. Find out more on Costa’s website and join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter at @CostaSunglasses.
From Bonefish & Tarpon Trust:
Miami, FL – A year-long study by Florida International University (FIU) and Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) has discovered pharmaceutical contaminants in the blood and other tissues of redfish in Florida waters. This research follows a similar study of bonefish in the Florida Keys, which revealed high levels of pharmaceutical contamination. This new study shows that these waterborne contaminants are a concern statewide.
“The results underscore the urgent need to modernize Florida’s wastewater treatment systems,” said BTT President and CEO Jim McDuffie. “Human-based contaminants like these pose a significant threat to Florida’s recreational fishery, which has an annual economic impact of $13.9 billion and directly supports more than 120,000 jobs.”
Scientists and volunteer guides and anglers sampled redfish in nine of Florida’s most important estuaries: Pensacola, Apalachicola, Cedar Key, Tampa Bay, Charlotte Harbor, Florida Bay, Northern Indian River Lagoon (IRL), St. Augustine, and Jacksonville.
Similar to the results of the previous bonefish study, pharmaceuticals were found in all of the estuaries sampled, with an average number of 2.1 drugs per fish and a maximum of five. Only seven out of the 113 sampled fish had zero drugs in their system. On average, 25.7 percent of the fish exceeded a level of pharmaceuticals considered safe, which equates to one-third of the therapeutic levels in humans.
“These studies of bonefish and redfish are the first to document the concerning presence of pharmaceuticals in species that are important to Florida’s recreational fisheries,” said Dr. Jennifer Rehage, FIU professor and the study’s lead researcher. “Given the impacts of many of these pharmaceuticals on other fish species and the types of pharmaceuticals found, we are concerned about the role pharmaceuticals play in the health of our fisheries. We will continue this work to get more answers to these concerning questions.”
Cardiovascular medications, opioid pain relievers, and psychoactive medications were most commonly detected (from highest to lowest detections). The antiarrhythmic medication flecainide and the opioid pain reliever tramadol were detected in over 50 percent of the redfish. The antipsychotic medication flupentixol was detected above safe levels in one in five of the redfish samples. These are very concerning levels of exposure for redfish.
Approximately five billion prescriptions are filled each year in the US, yet there are no environmental regulations for the production nor disposal of pharmaceuticals worldwide. Pharmaceutical contaminants originate most often from human wastewater and are not sufficiently removed by conventional water treatment. They remain active at low doses, can be released constantly, and exposure can affect all aspects of fish behavior, with negative consequences for their reproduction and survival. Pharmaceutical contaminants have been shown to affect all aspects of the life of fish, including their feeding, activity, sociability, and migratory behavior.
“Florida is a leader in addressing water quality issues and wastewater infrastructure, including converting septic systems to sewage treatment,” said Kellie Ralston, BTT’s Vice President for Conservation and Public Policy. “The results of this study indicate that there are additional opportunities for improvement by retrofitting existing wastewater treatment plants with innovative technologies, like ozone treatment, to remove pharmaceuticals and requiring such technology on new wastewater facilities.”
Click Here to view a summary of Redfish Pharmaceutical Contaminants Study’s findings.
Photos are available upon request.
About Bonefish & Tarpon Trust
Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s mission is to conserve bonefish, tarpon and permit—the species, their habitats and the larger fisheries they comprise. BTT pursues this mission across the southeastern US, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea through science-based conservation, education and advocacy. Learn more at BTT.org.
About Florida International University
Florida International Universityis a Top 50 public universitythat drives real talent and innovation in Miami and globally. Very high research (R1) activity and high social mobility come together at FIU to uplift and accelerate learner success in a global city by focusing in the areas of environment, health, innovation, and justice. Today, FIU has two campuses and multiple centers. FIU serves a diverse student body of more than 58,000 and 270,000 Panther alumni. U.S. News and World Report places dozens of FIU programs among the best in the nation, including international business at No. 2. Washington Monthly Magazine ranks FIU among the top 20 public universities contributing to the public good.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON – Popular, bipartisan legislation to secure funding for state and Tribal efforts to conserve at-risk species was introduced in the U.S. Senate late yesterday by Sens. Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Thom Tillis (R-NC). The Recovering America’s Wildlife Act (S. 1149), or RAWA, would make nearly $1.4 billion in annual funding available to state and Tribal wildlife management agencies, supporting critical conservation work, enhancing fish and wildlife habitat and boosting America’s outdoor recreation economy.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers members have been vocal proponents of the need for targeted investments in species recovery. The Recovering America’s Wildlife Act is the product of decades of hard work and dedicated collaboration a range of diverse stakeholders, including sportsmen and women, conservationists and business leaders.
BHA President and CEO Land Tawney underscored RAWA’s importance for sustaining wildlife populations – and stressed that the time for the bill’s passage had arrived.
“The Recovering America’s Wildlife Act will be a vital tool for our state and tribal wildlife managers, providing critical funding to keep common species common…and keeping other species out of the emergency room,” said Tawney. “It’s a valuable investment, and it’s the right thing to do for our diverse ecosystems all across North America.”
In the 117th Congress, Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) led the effort to advance RAWA in the House of Representatives with 152 Democratic cosponsors and 42 Republican cosponsors. On June 14, 2022, RAWA was passed on the House floor with a bipartisan vote of 231-190. RAWA was reported by the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee with bipartisan vote of 15-5 on April 7, 2022. It was included in negotiations until the last minute for the must-pass Omnibus Appropriations bill last December.
In the 118th Congress, lawmakers continue to work on a pay-for source to offset the cost of the legislation, a critical hurdle to its receiving a final vote. Discussions regarding a House companion are also ongoing but include conversations with Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR).
Tawney stated, “Quite frankly, we should have got this done back in 2022. Together we were able to achieve RAWA’s passage through the House, in bipartisan fashion, and we had the votes to do the same thing in the Senate. It didn’t happen then, but now it’s back – and we are calling on leadership to make this legislation a priority in 2023. Listen to the American people!”
State wildlife agencies have demonstrated the ability to successfully restore habitat for multiple game species, including tule elk in California, harlequin ducks in Montana, northern pintails in Kansas and many others. While not all at-risk species are game species, they share the same habitat with critical game animals like mallards, mule deer, pronghorn and wild trout. Improving habitat for one species benefits all of them, including wild game.
The bill’s introduction in the 118th Congress resulted from hard work by a broad coalition of stakeholders, the Alliance for America’s Fish and Wildlife. Comprised of outdoor industry leaders, state and Tribal fish and wildlife agency officials, conservation groups, business interests, and hunters and anglers, the coalition is committed to achieving comprehensive conservation funding legislation in the United States.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
The crew from The Fly Project skip the trout fishing and head out in pursuit of carp in Montana …
From The Fly Project:
“Carp are often viewed in a negative way. There is an abundance of carp and they are available to almost every angler. When weather gets too hot for trout, We head to the Rocky Mountain Carp Flats in search of these powerful giants.”
To check out more from The Fly Project, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON – Responding to this afternoon’s announcement by the Interior Department of a proposal to facilitate balanced administration of Bureau of Land Management lands, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers lauded the department’s proposal for improving public lands management and encouraged citizens to weigh in during an upcoming comment period.
The Interior’s “Public Lands Rule” outlines a long-term approach for conserving intact wildlife habitat, restoring resources impacted by wildfire and drought, expanding opportunities for outdoor recreation, and guiding balanced development. It is intended to enable the BLM to increase the resilience of public lands and waters in response to climate change, ensure the conservation of critical habitat, and plan management in a way that addresses the needs of local communities, states and Tribes.
BHA President and CEO Land Tawney commended the Interior Department announcement and its inclusive management approach.
“Hunters and anglers have good cause to support the forward-looking, comprehensive management strategy being proposed by the Interior Department,” said Tawney. “This approach builds on historic investments made through the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law by implementing a holistic management plan that considers the broad array of diverse stakeholder needs while also establishing a focus on long-term conservation of habitat.
“This framework will give BLM managers the tools they need to manage for intact and resilient landscapes,” continued Tawney. “In addition, it prioritizes important active management prescriptions to tackle invasive species and the restoration of lands and waters through conservation leasing – an underutilized tool that will encourage partnerships and collaboration with local communities and NGOs like BHA.
“The Public Lands Rule emphasizes practical, results-oriented management and a commitment to soliciting and heeding input from members of the public,” Tawney concluded. “We thank the BLM and Interior Department for their foresighted leadership and look forward to our continued collaboration to ensure a balanced future for our public lands and waters.”
Following the proposal’s publication in the Federal Register, a 75-day public comment period will be opened. In addition, the BLM will host five information forums to discuss details of the rule with members of the public.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
From Korkers:
Portland, OR – (March, 2023) – Korkers, the award winning outdoor footwear brand, is proud to introduce several new innovative footwear products geared for warm weather amphibious adventure. The new Swift Sandal, All Axis Vented Shoe, Wet Wade Conversion Kit, and Derek DeYoung I-Drain Wading Sock collaboration highlight Korkers Spring 2023 assortment.
“As a brand well known for creating high-performance, durable wading boots that provide exceptional traction on wet rock and unforgiving terrain, we have continually heard customers asking for lighter, more breathable options for hot summer days” says CEO Brian Chaney. “We are very excited to bring our new collection of versatile sandals and shoes featuring our proprietary OmniTrax® Interchangeable Sole System as well as complimentary accessories in Spring 2023. Unlike any other footwear on the market, Korkers new sandals and shoes provide all-around amphibious versatility allowing you to customize your traction for summer adventures like hiking, paddling, fishing, boating, camping, and travel. The agility and confidence that these shoes provide on slick, wet rock while using a sticky rubber Vibram® sole, a felt sole, or one of our carbide-studded soles is unmatched. Having the flexibility and versatility to quickly change from a high friction water performance sole to a trail based sole for hiking, street use, or travel is a complete game changer” Chaney continued.
In addition to these incredible new shoes and sandals, Korkers is also introducing complimentary accessories like the new I-Drain Water sock. The sock is a collaboration between Korkers and renowned fish artist Derek DeYoung, who’s colorful Brown Trout Flank pattern is prominently featured on the exterior protective cuff of the sock. Lastly, Korkers new Wet Wading Conversion Kit features an ultra-cushioned EVA insert designed to improve fit and turn any wading boot instantly into a proper fitting wet wading boot or warm water flats boot. Korkers new Spring 2023 product line will be available through premium outdoor retailers beginning in late March 2023.
About Korkers
Since 1959, Korkers® has created functional and versatile footwear for outdoor adventurers. Unique to the industry, Korkers’ proprietary OmniTraxTM Interchangeable Sole System provides a variety of performance traction options – from rock gripping felt soles to ice biting Triple Threat Carbide Studded soles to Vibram® XS Trek sticky rubber – allowing users to optimize traction performance on any terrain and in any condition. Brian Chaney leads the Portland, Oregon-based company’s team of avid fishing and outdoor enthusiasts dedicated to developing product solutions that combine design advances with innovative technology.
The iconic Yellowstone River is perhaps most beautiful in the fall. A video from Kris Zigich Media captures footage from the Yellowstone in the fall.
From Kris Zigich Media:
“A collection of shots I compiled into a short edit of the seasonal transition from Summer to Fall fly fishing on the Yellowstone River in Paradise Valley and Livingston, Montana. 2022”
To check out more from Kris Zigich Media, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
MISSOULA, Mont. – At the 12th annual North American Rendezvous, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers announced its 2023 award winners. BHA’s highest honors recognize individuals, chapters and entities that set themselves apart with their demonstrated commitment and unending effort on behalf of public lands and waters, fish and wildlife, and hunting and fishing.
The 2023 awardees are as follow:
Tony Wasley, former director of the Nevada Department of Wildlife and current president of the Wildlife Management Institute, received BHA’s Aldo Leopold Award for exceptional work and dedication to the conservation of terrestrial wildlife habitat.
“Tony’s most notable accomplishments included leading sagebrush ecosystem conservation within and beyond Nevada, raising awareness of the threat that feral horses and burros present to our arid Western landscapes, and partnering across user groups, including Tribes, ranchers, mining companies and many others,” said BHA North American Board Chair Ted Koch. “Tony’s positive and inclusive style keeps folks on his side in the fight for conservation. He calls it like he sees it, but he does so with love and respect for people and the resource.”
Don Holmstrom, a BHA life member from Boulder, Colorado, was presented with BHA’s Sigurd F. Olson Award, which recognizes outstanding effort conserving rivers, lakes or wetland habitat.
“Don Holmstrom has been a central part of the Colorado BHA leadership and has led the Colorado chapter’s efforts to assert the public’s right to fish and float navigable waterways in the state, through direct coordination with the lawyers leading the effort on the Roger Hill vs. Warsewa case,” said Tim Brass, BHA director of state policy and stewardship. “A lawyer himself, Don’s been instrumental in the filing of BHA’s recent amicus brief on this case, in partnership with American Whitewater.”
Corey Ellis, a BHA member who lives in Missoula, Montana, is the recipient of the 2023 Jim Posewitz Award acknowledging outstanding ethical behavior in the field and the education of the outdoor public on the importance of ethical behavior.
“Corey is persistent, smart and his moral compass is unshakeable,” said BHA Regional Policy Manager Kevin Farron. “He’s not afraid to pick new battles, and I’ve yet to see him give up. He’s written dozens of opinion columns forwarding good policy and opposing bad. He’s influenced decisions and attitudes on issues ranging from the use of drones in hunting, to cellular transmitting trail cams, to using license dollars for pen-raised, tailless pheasant stocking, and much, much more.”
Harrison Stasik, former president of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point BHA college club, received BHA’s Rachel Carson Award, which honors young leaders for outstanding work on behalf of hunting, angling and conservation.
“During his tenure as club president, Harrison has taken the program by storm and led UWSP BHA to be the top-ranking club in the Collegiate Program,” said Kylie Schumacher, BHA Collegiate Program coordinator. “He earned the club the Public Land Owner Stewardship Fund grant two years in a row. He took his club members on a trip to experience one of BHA’s priority and most cherished landscapes, the Boundary Waters Wilderness. Along with his teammates, he won BHA’s Hike to Hunt competition, raising over $2,000 for BHA. He’s also led the program’s biggest fundraiser, the Gear & Beer Bash, two years in a row, raising a total of nearly $20,000 for the club and collegiate program. He excels at building relationships with partners, peers, and mentors and has set the club on a path to success moving forward.”
Justin Spruiell, from Yelm, Washington, was presented with the Dwight D. Eisenhower Award for positive impact on BHA’s Armed Forces Initiative and the military community.
“Justin selflessly devotes countless hours to helping our military community get afield and strives to educate tomorrow’s conservation leaders,” said AFI leader Marty Bartram. “But the thing that impresses me most about Justin is his lack of ego. Justin truly only works for the mission of creating more conservationists in the military community. When you desperately need a volunteer for an event at the last minute, Justin can be counted on to be there.”
G&H Decoys is the recipient of BHA’s Larry Fischer Award, which honors the memory and contributions of a longtime BHA board member by recognizing exceptional dedication by a business to BHA’s mission.
“As I work to weave our partners into the fabric of BHA and vice versa, I will look to the example that Ray Penny, Carlos Gomez and the entire team at G&H Decoys have set as one of the gold standards of a true partnership,” said Josh Mills, corporate conservation partnerships coordinator at BHA. “G&H is new to partnering with BHA, but they came out full force last year. Standout volunteers – and companies – give BHA their time, their treasure and their talent, and this year’s winner did that every time we asked.”
Andrew McKean, the Glasgow, Montana-based journalist who currently is Outdoor Life’s hunting and conservation editor, received BHA’s 2023 Ted Trueblood Award for outstanding communications on behalf of backcountry habitat and values.
“He has an honest passion for conservation,” said Katie McKalip, BHA vice president of external affairs and communications, “and he has a deep appreciation of the role played not just by hunters and anglers but also by diverse collaborators like farmers, ranchers and businesses. He calls himself a public policy nerd, but he likewise possesses an ability to see the many human sides of contentious issues, imbuing his writing with an informed evenhandedness that’s all too rare these days.”
BHA’s Texas Chapter was presented with the George Bird Grinnell Award, which honors the outstanding BHA chapter of the year.
“It is an honor and privilege to work alongside this year’s Grinnell award winner in the name of public land and water conservation,” said Katie DeLorenzo, BHA Western regional manager and Texas BHA chapter coordinator. “The leaders of our Texas chapter have passionately defended hunting and fishing access, contributed to large-scale habitat conservation from the coast to the panhandle grasslands, and will invest $8K annually for three years to fund an American Fisheries Society Hutton Scholar to support the TPWD River Access Program. Simply put, Texas BHA is comprised of exceptional individuals doing exceptional work to further BHA’s mission in Texas and beyond.”
Finally, Buzz Hettick of Laramie, Wyoming, received the Mike Beagle-Chairman’s Award. Named after a BHA founder, it is given to an individual who shows outstanding effort on behalf of BHA.
“Buzz epitomizes action,” said Land Tawney, BHA president and CEO. “He is the ‘man in the arena’ Theodore Roosevelt spoke of – figuratively, if not literally. From the backcountry to the state legislature and everywhere in between, you can always count on Buzz.
“It’s fitting that Buzz Hettick has been awarded the Mike Beagle-Chairman’s Award for his unwavering efforts to help found our Wyoming Chapter, increase hunter access, and stand up for healthy habitat,” Tawney concluded. “Wyoming and America are better places because of his work. Be more like Buzz!
See a list of past BHA award winners.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
From Grundéns:
March 29, 2023 (Poulsbo, WA) — Grundéns, producer of the world’s leading fishing apparel and footwear, today announces the launch of the GORE-TEX Boundary Wading collection. Complete with male and female-specific waders and the Boundary Wading boot, this collection is available at Grundens.com/pages/boundary-wader and at specialty retailers across the country.
Built to withstand the demands of any angler, the Grundéns Boundary Wader collection focuses on mobility and durability while ensuring its easily repairable. Whether you are spending 10 hours in the frigid rivers of the PNW swinging for steelhead, or the pounding surf casting for stripers, the Boundary Waders’ unique design sets a new standard for mobility and comfort.
The Boundary Wader GORE-TEX Pro Wader laminate boasts 4L in the lower and 3L in the upper for superior waterproofing, breathability, and long-lasting durable performance. Unique articulated curved seams, anatomically designed booties, and the unique fused contour suspender system provide all-day comfort. The lined kangaroo pocket and large storage pockets enable anglers to keep all the essential items close to hand.
“The number one request we had from our retail partners was a wader, the new Boundary Waders are the answer to those customer requests and demonstrates our commitment to delivering the highest-quality fishing gear to all anglers. By partnering with GORE-TEX, the Boundary Waders provide unbeatable protection and comfort, making them the perfect choice for serious anglers who demand the best,” says David Mellon, Grundéns CEO. “In addition to our new waders, the Boundary Wading Boot raises the bar for what modern wading boots should be.”
Available to consumers today at Grundéns.com, the Boundary wading line features a men’s zippered wader ($899.99) and stockingfoot ($599.99) both in up to 13 sizes, a women’s stockingfoot in 11 sizes ($599.99), and a men’s wading boot ($249.99). Paired with layering and outerwear options, Grundéns offers head-to-toe solutions for fishing of any pursuit.
The Boundary Wading Boots feature a premium waterproof leather upper combined with a Vibram Idrogrip rubber outsole to create a boot that will withstand the heaviest usage for multiple seasons. The molded-in heel contour provides all-day comfort and when coupled with the removable HEXAGRIP Cleat and Stud System (sold separately for $89.99), provides ultimate grip in wet, slippery wading conditions.
Once an aspiring basketball player, an injury redirected Sage Indendi to a life of guiding. She is profiled in a new video from Free Fly Apparel.
From Free Fly Apparel:
“An injury and what seemed like the end of a career paved the way for a new passion. Check out the full of story of Sage Indendi Johnson’s journey from a path towards professional basketball to guiding in Alaska.”
To check out more from Free Fly Apparel, please click here.
From Fin-Nor:
Columbia S.C. (March 23, 2023) Fin-Nor, the iconic fishing brand known for innovation and
performance, adds five new eyewear styles to its collection: Dropfly, Cleat, Sportfisher, Tillies Bank, and Spring Tide. Inspired by the barriers watermen and women face while pursuing their passion, these new styles continue to deliver superior lens technology designed to perform and provide for all-day comfort while lending stylish function.
In 2022, Fin-Nor brought together the foremost experts on human vision and lens and frame engineering from across the globe to create a line of purposefully-designed performance eyewear for anglers. Now expanding the collection, these new frames offer best-in-class frame construction designed for comfort and airflow, perfect for any outdoor condition. All Fin-Nor eyewear has Lateral LineTM lens technology, which features the most advanced technology on the market that provides maximum protection, clarity, and polarization. Fin-Nor eyewear comes in both glass and plastic lenses and features five lens colors to choose from: grey, blue mirror, silver mirror, copper, and green mirror.
The Dropfly is a fishing-centric style, with a 6-base performance Unisex frame made with lightweight, flexible materials that include adjustable nose pads and integrated spring hinges which prevent pressure points and allow for all-day comfort. These frames are
lightweight and highly breathable, perfect for long days in all outdoor environments. Frame colors include Matte Brown Shoals (NEW) and Matte Black, and retail starts at $189.00.
The Cleat is a male-oriented 8-base frame designed for ultimate performance on and off the water. It includes features to ensure optimal performance, including an innovative venting system, built-in peripheral shields for light management, an adjustable nose pad, and integrated spring hinges, which provide a snug fit on a broader range of face shapes and sizes. Frame colors include Matte Blue Wave (NEW) and Matte Black, and retail starts at $189.00.
The Sportfisher is a stylish 8-base frame designed for a full day on the water. It features lightweight, flexible materials, adjustable nose pads, and integrated spring hinges, which help lessen fatigue and discomfort, ensuring a comfortable fit. The frame features a venting system that prevents the frames from trapping heat, creating a more comfortable experience, no matter the conditions. Frame colors include Matte Black and Matte Sienna Tort, and MSRP starts at $189.00.
The Tillies Bank is a female-targeted 6-base frame with a modern performance style, a comfortable nose pad that helps them stay in place, and integrated spring hinges that
lessen discomfort and fit a wider range of faces. Frame colors include Flats Pool Tort (NEW), Matte Deep Shallow Blue (NEW), and Honey Ripple Fade. MSRP starts at $179.00.
The Spring Tide is an extremely stylish 6-base frame that translates performance and lifestyle. Whether poolside on vacation or traversing the open water, these frames provide all-day protection while keeping photo ready. The frame comes in multiple eye-catching colors, which include Silver/Seafoam Swirl (NEW), Rose Gold/Brown-Amber Stripe, and Silver/Matte Charcoal Stripe, and MSRP starts at $209.00.
Fin-Nor Technology Features:
• Distortion-free color – A balanced approach to color enhancement that intensifies primary colors without color distortion. It creates a more natural and realistic experience that limits eye fatigue and makes it easier for the brain to quickly identify and process the view on and beneath the water’s surface.
• Unmatched sharpness and a new era of polarization – Designed to cut through glare and haze, eliminating confusing light and optimizing visibility in aquatic environments, Fin-Nor’s superior lens technology reduces blue light transmittance, allowing your vision to cut through mist and haze like no other.
• Engineered for the elements – Enhanced abrasion resistance and the industry’s only
hydrophobic/oleophobic coatings on both sides of the lenses significantly reduce the negative
impact of smudges, dust, and saltwater, which impede the ability to see and can cause permanent lens scratches.
• Precision optics – Fin-Nor sunglasses feature the world’s best 7-layer anti-reflective coating on the glass lenses and 5-layer anti-reflective coating on the polycarbonate lenses, which prevents glare on the backside of lenses, sharpens vision, reduces eye strain, and allows for better visual acuity on the water.
For more information about Fin-Nor Eyewear, please visit http://www.Fin-Nor.com
Honson Lau heads into the backcountry to fly fish some of Florida’s finest waters in an episode of Silver Kings.
From Silver Kings:
“Jared’s long time friend and fellow guide, Honson Lau, joins Jared for a day in the backcountry.”
To check out more from Silver Kings, please click here.
Nothing beats a good fly fishing road trip! In this video, the crew from WildFly Productions fish waters along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
From WildFly Productions:
“Over the course of 5 days, we take the Blue Ridge Parkway from start to finish. Starting in Cherokee, North Carolina and ending in Afton, Virginia we fish, camp and live entirely out of our cars. The blue ridge parkway is known for its stellar views, hiking trails and vastness but hidden between these mountains are hidden gem streams full of fish. Enjoy as we take you along the journey with us.”
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
After recently recording an episode of the podcast with Mike Tayloe of Finns West, we realized we needed another. In this episode Tayloe rejoins the podcast to discuss wilderness first aid and first aid training.
To see more from Finns West, please click here.
And to learn more about Global Rescue, please click here.
The Venturing Angler Podcast: Wilderness First Aid (Part 2) with Mike Tayloe of Finns West
From Costa:
JUPITER, Fla. (MAR. 21, 2023) – Costa Sunglasses, manufacturer of the first color-enhancing all-polarized glass sunglass lens, brings next-level performance to its legacy frame Corbina for spring 2023. The enhanced Corbina PRO features new performance upgrades that keep your frames locked in place and vision clear so you can stay focused on what’s most important – finding fish.
For the past 40 years, Costa has supplied anglers with the best sunglasses on the market for long days on the water. In 2021, the brand debuted its PRO Series with the award-winning Blackfin PRO and Fantail PRO. Today, the collection has grown to a family of six with its latest addition, Corbina PRO. The best-selling frame now features an updated style and six added features to help anglers better manage sweat, reduce fogging and keep their frames in place, even when the water gets rough.
Corbina has been a legacy favorite and sport staple among bass anglers for years. The new PRO frame takes it up a notch with eyewire drains and sweat management channels to move sweat away from your eyes, improved Hydrolite grip on the nose and earpiece to keep your frames locked in place, a fully-adjustable and ventilated nose pad for a custom fit and to reduce fogging, hooding and side shields to maximize coverage and metal keeper slots to keep your frames from going overboard.
“Corbina has been my go-to frame for a while now. I always joke that even if I didn’t have them on, you could tell they’re my favorites just by my Costa tan,” says Justin Lucas, Costa PRO and two time MLF Champion. “I was stoked when the team reached out to me to test the Corbina PRO. The PRO Series has been a game changer. Having the added features to my favorite frames has been the best of both worlds.”
“Bass is one of our largest communities of anglers. With Corbina being so beloved in the bass community, it was a no-brainer to add it to our PRO collection and launch it right before the tour season,” says John Acosta, Costa Sunglasses Vice President of Marketing NA. “We’re always looking at ways to support the bass community – from making the best performance sunglasses for the water to conserving the resources within. That is the motivation behind our super successful Costa Compete + Conserve program – rewarding anglers for wearing Costa and raising money for freshwater conservation efforts. When anglers win, they get to choose one of five conservation partners for Costa to donate to. We hope to see more Costa anglers wearing the PRO Series on the podium this year!”
The Corbina PRO is equipped with Costa’s cutting-edge polarized 580® glass lens technology, providing exceptional clarity and color enhancement. These scratch-resistant lenses effectively reduce haze and blur, while boosting essential colors for superior definition. Built with Bio-Resin, Costa’s PRO Series frames are lightweight and maintain the durability necessary for any watery adventure.
Starting at $284, Corbina PRO is currently available at local dealers or Costasunglasses.com. For more information about Costa’s complete collection of award-winning performance, optical and lifestyle frames, visit Costasunglasses.com. For more information about Costa Compte + Conserve and to sign up for future tournaments, visit Costacompeteandconserve.com.
About Costa Sunglasses
As the first manufacturer of color-enhancing all-polarized glass sunglass lenses, Costa combines superior lens technology with unparalleled fit and durability. Costa has made the highest quality, best-performing sunglasses and prescription sunglasses (Rx) for outdoor enthusiasts since 1983, and now its product portfolio includes optical frames. Costa’s growing cult-brand status ties directly to its purpose to provide high-quality products with a focus on sustainability and conservation as the company works hard to protect the waters it calls home. From the use of sustainable and water-friendly materials to its Kick Plastic initiative, IndiFly Foundation, and meaningful partnerships with mission-aligned organizations, Costa encourages people to help protect the Earth’s natural resources in any way they can. Find out more on Costa’s website and join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter at @CostaSunglasses.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON – Valuable wildlife habitat and important cultural lands will be permanently conserved following the Biden administration’s designation today of Avi Kwa Ame National Monument in southern Nevada and Castner Range National Monument in west Texas.
Avi Kwa Ame National Monument spans more than 500,000 acres of federal public lands that will continue to be managed by the Bureau of Land Management. The state of Nevada will retain wildlife management authority under the proclamation language, including active management for water resources to sustain wildlife populations. Hunting and existing public access opportunities will be maintained, and the proclamation requires representatives from the hunting community to be on the monument advisory committee.
Located on Fort Bliss in Texas, Castner Range National Monument comprises 6,672 acres of the historic testing and training site for the U.S. Army during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. The monument will be managed by the Army, and the landscape will undergo a Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) process to ensure public safety. The region’s conservation will provide increased access to public lands that have been closed since 1966 in addition to connecting wildlife habitat, for species such as mule deer, with the adjacent Franklin Mountains State Park.
“Today we celebrate the long-term conservation of public lands in the American Southwest,” said Land Tawney, president and CEO of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. “The Avi Kwa Ame region and the Castner Range have historically played an important role in providing habitat to a range of wildlife in addition to being culturally significant to Indigenous communities and hunter opportunity.
“We commend the administration for listening to the calls of hunters, local residents, recreationists, Tribal members and others and taking action to safeguard them – biologically, culturally, recreationally and economically,” Tawney continued. “Backcountry Hunters & Anglers has been honored to work alongside Tribal leaders and community members to achieve this momentous victory.”
President Joe Biden pledged in November to advance long-term conservation in southern Nevada. The area south of Las Vegas encompasses Avi Kwa Ame, or Spirit Mountain, as well as Joshua tree forests, desert landscapes and the ancestral lands of 12 Indigenous tribes. The area is home to diverse species of wildlife and their habitat, including migration corridors for desert bighorn sheep, and is surrounded by nine distinct wilderness areas.
BHA and a diverse community of stakeholders, including Indigenous tribes, business owners and local residents, together have advocated for permanent conservation measures that protect the region’s unique cultural values and intact wildlife habitat.
“Hunters in Nevada have long known the importance of the Avi Kwa Ame region to wildlife – none more so than our state animal, the desert bighorn – and to our outdoor traditions,” said Karen Boeger, a self-described “desert rat” who sits on the Nevada BHA chapter board. “We thank the administration for recognizing the value of this landscape and especially for its direction to the Interior Department to continue its work with Nevada Department of Wildlife on a memorandum of understanding. We support the president’s taking action under the Antiquities Act to ensure that our kids and grandkids will be able to access these lands in perpetuity.”
BHA has consistently advocated for America’s national monuments system and the judicious use of the Antiquities Act as a way to permanently conserve important large landscapes. Key to achieving this outcome is a process that adheres to specific tenets and is locally driven, transparent, incorporates the science-based management of habitat, and upholds existing hunting and fishing opportunities.
In 2016, BHA and a consortium of outdoor groups and businesses released a report on how national monument designations can sustain important fish and wildlife habitat while maintaining traditional hunting and fishing access.
Read National Monuments: A Sportsman’s Perspective.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
The Silver Kings crew take a break from tarpon and head to the Bahamas to fish for bonefish in an episode of their popular show.
From Silver Kings:
“Jared joins BTT Bahamas Initiative Manager, Justin Lewis to survey the comeback of Grand Bahama for both the people and the environment.”
To check out more from Silver Kings, please click here.
After recently recording an episode of the podcast with Mike Tayloe of Finns West, we realized we needed another. In this episode Tayloe rejoins the podcast to discuss wilderness first aid and first aid training.
To see more from Finns West, please click here.
And to learn more about Global Rescue, please click here.
Also, some recommended links from Tayloe:
www.rescue-essentials.com
www.conterra-inc.com
And to check out the podcast, please click below or download our podcast on iTunes, Soundcloud, or Spotify:
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Disclosure: Global Rescue is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
In an ongoing series from Sony, photographers and filmmakers head to treasured ecosystems to tell the stories of conservation and the needs of fish in these wild places. In this video, Andy Mann captures underwater action in Magdalena Bay, Mexico.
From Sony:
“In this episode of SeaLegacy | The Voyage, Sony Artisan of Imagery Andy Mann sets out to film and photograph the sardine bait balls in Magdalena Bay. These bait balls play a critical role in marine ecosystems, and Mann says it’s important to look at the big picture to protect both coasts. “It’s a holistic view, so we’re trying to tell a holistic story.” Join the Tide, a monthly recurring giving program, to help SeaLegacy amplify its conservation impact on the front lines and from onboard the Expedition Vessel SeaLegacy1: https://bit.ly/SeaLegacyTide“
To check out more from Sony, please click here.
From Patagonia:
ALBANIA, 15 March, 2023 – Today, the Vjosa River in Albania, one of the last wild rivers of Europe is declared a National Park by the Albanian Government, becoming the first Wild River National Park in Europe. In future, the Vjosa will be conserved as a living, free-flowing river, to the benefit of people and nature. This is the result of a unique collaboration between the Albanian Government, local and international experts, environmental NGOs from the Save the Blue Heart of Europe campaign, IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) and outdoor clothing company Patagonia.
The Vjosa and its main tributaries run freely for over 400km, from the Pindus Mountain Range in Greece, where it is called Aoös, to the Adriatic coast in Albania. The river and its surrounding areas are ecosystems of substantial biodiversity and are home to over 1,100 species of animals, including 13 animal species and two plant species assessed as globally threatened by IUCN.
The Vjosa Wild River National Park facilitates solutions to challenges faced by the river such as water and land pollution, waste management, and deforestation. Additionally, the National Park will create economic opportunities for local communities, through responsible tourism, and help address the problem of depopulation from the area.
Gaining IUCN Category II: National Park status means the Vjosa will be afforded protection, to the highest international standards, ensuring its ecological integrity, allowing natural processes to occur, and sustaining populations of all native species. The designation will take place in two phases, with Phase I being declared today (15 March 2023):
- In Phase I, the active channel of the river will be given National Park status, plus some lands and river vegetation within the active channel, or at risk of flooding or erosion – over 400km in total length. The area will be managed as a National Park and is expected to be fully operational by early 2024.
- Phase II, in the coming years, will add other free-flowing tributaries and areas that are integral to the river’s ecosystem, plus some private land, following consultation with stakeholders.
Patagonia, IUCN, and the Save the Blue Heart of Europe campaign NGOs have been engaged in the work to protect the wild rivers of the Balkan Peninsular for the last eight years. In 2021, IUCN finalised a study showing how applying IUCN’s protected area standards would benefit the communities and biodiversity of the Vjosa Valley.
In June 2022, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, Minister of Tourism and Environment Mirela Kumbaro and Patagonia CEO Ryan Gellert came together at a ceremony in Tirana to sign a commitment to create Vjosa Wild River National Park together. Over the last nine months, extensive fieldwork and in-depth analysis has taken place by a team of over 30 local and international experts in areas such as eco-tourism, geomorphology, ecology, planning and management of protected areas, sustainable financing of national parks, legislation, and social and environmental impact assessment. Consultation with interest groups, as well as public communication, has also been incorporated into the process. At the same time, the Albanian government is starting a joint process with the Greek government to create the Aoös -Vjosa transboundary park, aiming for the highest level of protection for the entire river, from source to sea, across both countries.
Mirela Kumbaro Furxhi, Minister of Tourism and Environment, Albania:
“Vjosa is a symbol of human history and also a very important part of the history of our country. Maybe Albania does not have the power to change the world, but it can create successful models of protecting biodiversity and natural assets and we are proud to announce the creation of this first National Park on one of the last wild rivers in Europe. The Albanian government has taken the bold decision to create a National Park of 12,727 hectares, including the 190 kilometers long Vjosa, where over 60,000 people have lived for centuries.
“Now a new phase begins – that of drawing up the management plan to give people the opportunity to build their lives in a sustainable way. This is our vision: sustainable and environmentally responsible development, which protects biodiversity and gives people the opportunity to prosper in their homelands.”
Ryan Gellert, CEO, Patagonia:
“This unique collaboration between government, civil society and business is testament to the power of collective action and we hope it will inspire others to come together to protect the wild places we have left, in a meaningful way. Standing on the banks of the Vjosa today, we are humbled to know that this exceptional river and its wildlife will be conserved forever.”
Boris Erg, Director, European Regional Office, IUCN:
“Today marks a milestone for the people and biodiversity of Albania. IUCN applauds the Government of Albania for their leadership and ambition and stands ready to support the implementation of the decision to designate the Vjosa Wild River National Park. We invite other governments in the region and beyond to show similar ambition and help reach the vital goal of protecting 30 percent of the planet by 2030.”
From wild trout to jungle tarpon, Costa Rica has a great deal to offer fly anglers. A video from Tropical Fly Collective highlights much of what this country has to offer.
To check out more from Tropical Fly Collective, please click here.
We’ve been eagerly awaiting this one! From Jimmy Chin and Chai Vasarhelyi, a new film for National Geographic that focuses on one of the most ambitious and inspirational conservation efforts in history. Alas the trailer for WILD LIFE.
From Tompkins Conservation:
“Wild Life is a sweeping portrait of conservationists Kris and Doug Tompkins chronicling their fight to preserve one of the last truly wild places on earth. #WildLifeFilm hits select theaters April 14th and is available to stream on National Geographic Channel May 25th and Disney+ on May 26th, 2023.”
To check out more from Tompkins Conservation, please click here.
From Simms:
Bozeman, Mont. (March 14, 2023) – In early January of this year, Simms Fishing Products, preeminent manufacturer of waders, outerwear, footwear, and technical apparel in fishing launched the all-new Spring 2023 product collection. Across the board, the Spring 2023 line reaffirms the reputation of delivering angler-driven, technical fishing gear that Simms has cultivated over the past 30 years. Coinciding with the arrival of the Spring season, Simms is proud to announce the official launch of their all-new Freestone Collection waders.
Available in a Men’s, Women’s, and a Men’s Pant, all Freestone waders have gone through a 2-year development cycle and are available now via Simms’ vast retail network and also at www.simmsfishing.com. Constructed from a durable, waterproof/breathable 4-layer Toray Quadralam fabric package, the new Freestones feature a fleece-line, reach-through chest pocket, zippered stretch-woven stash pocket, and a built-in Tippet Tender pocket to allow anglers ample on-body storage for small essentials. Also equipped with Simms’ patented front and back leg seams, stretch elastic suspenders with opposing buckles that allow for a waist-high conversion on hot days, and built-in neoprene gravel guards, anglers can reap the rewards of comfort and a completely unhindered range of motion.
“We are really proud of what we’ve accomplished with the new collection of Freestone waders,” says Simms Senior Product Line Manager, Matt Carara. “Since they were first introduced, Freestones have really come a long way – and each variation has drastically improved. From start to finish, the current iteration took about two years of design and development but in reality, we’ve been fine tuning, tweaking, and perfecting Freestone waders for 15+ years. In my mind, the Freestones we launched this month are a direct and accurate reflection of all of that time and effort.”
When first introduced in 2003, Freestone provided anglers fishy features and waterproof/breathability in an accessible package. Through the years, Freestone has significantly progressed and while the latest iteration is still a fantastic choice for newbies — it can now easily hold its own when put to the test by veteran anglers alike.
In order to accomplish this, Simms aimed to incorporate trickle down technology from longstanding best sellers such as G3. The first, and one of the most important steps in developing the new Freestone collection was for Simms to incorporate their G3 fit block on both the Men’s and Women Freestones (respectively). This improved fit not only enhances mobility and comfort — by eliminating bunching, creasing, and abrasion areas, it also dramatically increases the longevity of the wader itself.
Another new development that bolsters comfort, mobility, and durability even further is the incorporation of their patented front and back leg seams. While Simms has utilized front and back leg seams for many years in wader styles such as G3 and G4, this is the first time this innovation has found its way into the Freestone collection.
After dialing in the beloved mobility and fit found in G3, the next priority to address was the gravel guard. While its predecessor utilized a self-fabric gravel guard, which is essentially a continuation of the lower portion of the wader’s fabric, the new Men’s and Women’s Freestone feature a built-in neoprene gravel guard/stockingfoot construction. Not only is this a major upgrade towards comfort, performance, and durability — aesthetically, it gives the wader that iconic and unmistakable Simms look.
From the fit and function to the look and feel, the new Freestone Stockingfoot collection offers the technical performance and durability Simms waders have come to be known for and is further proof, small details make the biggest differences.
About Simms Fishing Products: Established in 1980, Simms is the preeminent manufacturer of waders, outerwear and technical fishing apparel and accessories. The full line of Simms gear is available at specialty and large format retailers across North America as well as www.simmsfishing.com.
The jungle waters of Central America are where anglers can find some of the best tarpon fishing in the world. In a video from Tropical Fly Collective, anglers fly fish for tarpon in Costa Rica.
From Tropical Fly Collective:
“Tropical Freshwater Diaries Episode 1 ‘Jungle Tarpon – Following the Migrant King’
We follow the journey of the migrant king, or jungle tarpon, deep into a river system surrounded in rainforest. Wildlife abounds, as do really massive tarpon brought here by huge concentrations of baitfish. Prepare yourself for a visual ride to this amazing freshwater tarpon fishery.”
To check out more from Tropical Fly Collective, please click here.
From Patagonia:
Designed, built and field-tested by our team of hard-working women anglers, the Women’s Swiftcurrent Expedition Zip-Fronts set the standard for women’s waders. Built with Patagonia’s industry-leading, 100% recycled face fabrics, they’re more comfortable, fit women’s bodies better and provide exclusive, for-women-only features.
Constructed from our most robust, breathable H2No® Performance Standard fabric package, the Women’s Zip-Fronts move athletically in and out of the water with customizable-fit options that accommodate layering but won’t bag out when you go light. With a gusseted crotch, sock-like anatomical booties and adjustable top hem, wading belt and suspenders, finding an individualized fit for every body shape is uncomplicated and quick.
A waterproof front zipper makes everything more accessible and comfortable, while waist-mounted, quick-release suspenders convert the waders from full-length to waist-highs. Our rear-buckle drop-seat system means no more awkward, dangling straps during bathroom breaks. Integrated front and rear belt loops hold our Secure Stretch wading belt, which flexes just enough to provide a snug fit without sagging under the weight of a net or wading staff.
Other fishy features include removable knee pads for fish-releasing comfort, two soft hand-warmer pockets and two stash pockets—all with waterproof zips. An interior, flip-out waterproof pocket keeps phones and keys dry, and rock-resistant scuff guards at the ankles boost durability.
“We’re extremely proud to deliver the Women’s Swiftcurrent Expedition Zip-Fronts,” said Nicole Labrie, Patagonia Fly Fishing’s Global Product Line Manager. “By adding the Zip-Fronts into our women’s wader line, we’re assuring that the female angling community has access to the waders they deserve—full-featured, heavy duty, versatile and designed, built and tested for women by women. They are, without question, the finest women’s waders on the planet.”
To learn more about the Patagonia Women’s Swiftcurrent Expedition Zip-Front Waders, please click here.
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Disclosure: Patagonia is in a professional relationship with the The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON – The administration’s $6.8 trillion proposed budget for fiscal year 2024 increases funding for key resource management agencies as well as for programs that would address pressing conservation issues affecting fish and wildlife and public lands and waters.
The Department of the Interior would receive a 12 percent increase, or an additional $2 billon, over FY23 enacted levels. The Department of Agriculture discretionary budget would receive a 14.4 percent increase, or an additional $4.7 billion over FY23 enacted levels.
Notably the proposal would invest in expanding biodiversity by increasing key programs and funding for the National Wildlife Refuge System, Endangered Species Act implementation and the conservation of migratory birds and fisheries. The Fish and Wildlife Service budget request is $2.08 billion, or an increase of 17.7 percent. Included in this figure is an $83 million increase for the National Wildlife Refuge System as well as a 30 percent increase, translating to an additional $19 million, for the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, which facilitates voluntary conservation activities on private lands.
The proposed budget would provide a $141 million boost to the Bureau of Land Management, with program funding for Wildlife Habitat Management and Aquatic Resources receiving a 13.5 percent increase. At the USDA, the Forest Service would receive $2.22 billion, or $252 million over FY23 enacted levels. This includes a 56 percent increase in funding for hazardous fuels reduction that would allow the agency to mitigate wildfire risk on 4.2 million acres in high priority and high-risk areas, a significant investment in prioritizing the USFS 10-Year Wildfire Crisis Strategy.
While the proposal is largely positive, it includes only a $30 million request for funding to clean up abandoned hardrock mine sites, less than half of last year’s $65 million request. Cost estimates to clean up abandoned mines are as high as $54 billion. The bipartisan infrastructure package passed in late 2021 authorized $3 billion for this important work, and Backcountry Hunters & Anglers encourages Congress to appropriate at least $287 million to begin reclamation of abandoned hardrock mines, which represent the largest source of pollution in the United States.
BHA President and CEO Land Tawney commended the proposed increases in conservation-related work, calling the draft budget a “starting point” in likely heated negotiations between lawmakers that will follow in the divided Congress.
“The administration’s proposal addresses key needs identified by resource managers and scientists and advocated for by hunters, anglers and citizens from all walks of life,” said Tawney. “We appreciate the hard work by President Biden and his cabinet leaders to enhance America’s public lands and waters, the fish and wildlife that rely on them, and the opportunities for challenge, solitude and adventure they provide.
“More remains to be done, however,” Tawney continued. “We look forward to working with the administration and Congress to ensure we meet our shared obligations to the stewardship of our nation’s natural resources.”
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
From Patagonia:
VENTURA, Calif. — Patagonia turns 50 this year and the outdoor apparel company that was started by a self-taught blacksmith is focused on what’s next. Any hope of a thriving planet—much less a thriving business—is going to take all of us doing what we can with the resources we have. At Patagonia, that means being in business to save our home planet and having a lot of fun along the way.
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Since our founding, Patagonia has remained committed to building quality products and doing less harm to the planet. That’s why we’re proud of these 10 pivotal moments when we prioritized the planet over profit:
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Changing our business model to protect the places we love by switching from pitons to chocks for alpine climbing (1972)
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Giving our first environmental grant to a nonprofit that helped save a local surf break (1972), which led us to start giving away 1% of annual sales (1985) and co-found 1% For the Planet (2002)
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Switching from conventional cotton to organic cotton after formaldehyde sickened our employees (1996)
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Placing the “Don’t Buy This Jacket” ad on Black Friday (2011)
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Becoming the first certified B Corporation in California (2012)
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Establishing Patagonia Provisions (2012)
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Finding new ways to give back to the planet: Donating 100% of our Black Friday sales to environmental nonprofits (2016)
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Suing the Trump administration to protect Bears Ears National Monument (2017)
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We are in business to save our home planet becomes our new purpose (2018)
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Changing our ownership model: Earth is now our only shareholder (2022)
In our next 50 years, Patagonia will relentlessly focus on quality—quality products, quality connections to nature, quality capitalism. We’ll move away from things that hold us back—expect more collaboration instead of competition, especially as we tackle existential crises like climate change.
Together, we’ll answer the hardest questions: Can capitalism evolve? What does quality capitalism look like? How can we better rally our community to address the root causes of the climate and ecological crisis? Who are the unexpected partners that will join along the way?
Patagonia is turning 50 and is focused on what’s next.
About Patagonia
We’re in business to save our home planet. Founded by Yvon Chouinard in 1973, Patagonia is an outdoor apparel company based in Ventura, California. As a certified B Corporation and a founding member of 1% for the Planet, the company is recognized internationally for its product quality and environmental activism, as well as its contributions of nearly $200 million to environmental organizations. Its unique ownership structure reflects that Earth is its only shareholder: Profits not reinvested back into the business are paid as dividends to protect the planet.
In an episode of Silver Kings, Jared hits the water with a firefighter and paramedic who’s also an accomplished tarpon angler.
From Silver Kings:
“Jared is joined by long time friend Capt. Luis Cortes, Firefighter/Paramedic and Florida Keys Guide who has most recently won the prestigious ‘Gold Cup’ Tarpon Tournament for the second time in a row.”
To check out more from Silver Kings, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON – More than 340,000 acres of public lands and waters in northeast Nevada’s Ruby Mountains would be conserved under legislation introduced in the U.S. Senate today.
The Ruby Mountains Protection Act would prohibit oil and gas leasing on more than 300,000 acres of the Ruby Mountains subdistrict of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and nearly 40,000 acres of the Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge. The region provides a critical migratory corridor for the state’s largest mule deer herd, sage grouse habitat, and robust fisheries including Lahontan cutthroat trout, the Nevada state fish. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) reintroduced the bill in the 118th Congress. It passed out of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee in the 117th Congress with bipartisan support.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, which now has supported the legislation across three Congresses, highlighted its importance to Nevada’s fish, wildlife and public lands and waters.
“We thank Sen. Cortez Masto for her leadership on reintroducing the Ruby Mountains Protection Act, which would withdraw nearly 350,000 acres of public land from oil and gas leasing, removing the threat of habitat fragmentation while maintaining multiple use,” said Bryce Pollock, BHA Nevada chapter policy co-chair. “Sportsmen and women applaud this legislation that would conserve critical habitat in the migratory corridor for Nevada’s largest mule deer herd as well as streams and lakes populated by Lahontan cutthroat trout.”
“With the introduction in the 118th Congress of the Ruby Mountains Protection Act, we have the opportunity to conserve critical habitat and support healthy populations of fish and wildlife in a northeastern Nevada region that is absolutely unique,” said John Gale BHA vice president of policy and government relations.
“Speculative oil and gas leasing, as well as other development, have long threatened these public lands and waters,” Gale continued. “Sen. Cortez Masto has taken a step toward addressing the problem of habitat fragmentation by championing this legislation, which also allows commonsense, multiple-use management to continue. We appreciate her commitment to the fish and wildlife of northeastern Nevada and to the hunters and anglers whose traditions rely on them.”
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
A new video explores the feelings and freedom that comes with fly fishing.
From GypsyOnFly:
“In the wake of self discovery, two fly fishers (partners) courageously de-materialise their lives to become more ‘in-touch’ with each other and discover what it really means to be free.”
To check out more from GypsyOnFly, please click here.
The Mission is one of the best magazines out there for everything from destination content to gear highlights to angler profiles. Issue 38 just dropped and is available online. This one has everything from tigerfish to trout and is excellent as always.
To check out the new issue of The Mission, please click here.
The Southeast U.S. has some of the best fishing anywhere as well as unmatched species diversity. A new issue of Southern Culture on the Fly is now live, and the new issue covers everything from fly fishing for musky in Virginia to redfish pursuits along the coast.
To check out the new issue of Southern Culture on the Fly, please click here.
The beauty of fly fishing in a New Hampshire snow storm is captured in a video from Reel Tales.
From Reel Tales:
“Fly Fishing During a New Hampshire winter snow storm in early January of 2023. Getting out in Aidan’s 1981 Volkswagen Westfalia, to Find the Beauty. Sometimes we all try to seek adventures in a far away place. But sometimes all you need to do is go into your backyard, and find what you’re looking for.”
To check out more from Reel Tales, please click here.
Chasing a grand slam in the Keys! The crew from Silver Kings is back with tarpon pursuits (plus more).
From Silver Kings:
“Jared joins Capt. Brandon Cyr in search of Bonefish, Tarpon & Permit in Key West.”
To check out more from Silver Kings, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON – A bill that would conserve as wilderness 13,000 acres of public lands in New Mexico, including migratory corridors for elk and habitat for a range of big-game species, was introduced in both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives today by Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM).
The Cerro de la Olla Wilderness Establishment Act would designate 13,000 new acres of wilderness within the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument in northern New Mexico, further solidifying protections for the landscape while maintaining current routes and public access.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers’ New Mexico chapter supported the legislation during its initial introduction in the 117th Congress and commended today’s bicameral introduction in the 118th.
“We applaud the reintroduction of the Cerro de la Olla Wilderness Establishment Act by Senator Martin Heinrich and Representative Teresa Leger Fernández,” said Mike Farrington, BHA NM vice chair. “Supported by sportsmen and women, this legislation would permanently conserve more than 13,000 acres of public lands in the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument. A unique caldera, this landscape is an important migratory corridor for elk and provides habitat for other game species such as mule deer, mountain lions, and black bear.”
Established in 2013, the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument provides habitat ranging from high altitude sagebrush plains to some of the nation’s first designated segments of the Wild and Scenic River System. In 2019, the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act designated both the Cerro del Yuta Wilderness and the Rio San Antonio Wilderness within the monument.
“Wilderness areas offer untrammeled landscapes, healthy habitat and solitude that is becoming all too rare in our world,” said John Gale, BHA vice president of policy and government relations. “BHA members thirst for the hunting and fishing opportunities that only wilderness provides. Senator Heinrich and Representative Leger Fernández not only appreciate these values; they also recognize the broad support from New Mexicans and others for conserving them. We thank them for their leadership, and we urge their colleagues in Congress to support the Cerro de la Olla Wilderness Establishment Act.”
Last Congress the Cerro de la Olla Wilderness Establishment Act was reported out of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee by voice vote, the only wilderness bill in the 117th Congress to do so.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
In Waters Edge, filmmakers tell (part of) the story of Wyatt — a Navajo guide in Colorado and New Mexico. Enjoy.
To check out more from this filmmaker, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON – Public land and water users scored a big win for public access today with the U.S. Supreme Court’s announcement declining to consider arguments brought by New Mexico landowners that would have challenged public waters access in the Land of Enchantment.
The Supreme Court denied a petition by Chama Troutstalkers LLC and Z&T Cattle Company LLC asking for a review of a September decision by the New Mexico Supreme Court that confirmed the public’s right to walk or wade streambeds crossing privately owned lands. This opinion ruling followed the New Mexico court’s unanimous decision in March 2022 to strike down a regulation that allowed landowners to close access to streams flowing through their properties.
The Supreme Court receives thousands of such requests, called a “petition for certiorari,” every year but accepts only a small number. In their petition, the landowners file suit against the three groups that won the New Mexico case – the New Mexico chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, the Adobe Whitewater Club of New Mexico and the New Mexico Wildlife Federation – and claim that striking down the New Mexico stream access regulation was a “taking.”
Joel Gay, former chairman and policy coordinator for the New Mexico chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, hailed the Supreme Court’s decision.
“The highest court in the land has spoken,” said Gay, “and, like the New Mexico Supreme Court before it, has summarily dismissed the baseless arguments of a handful of private landowners in New Mexico who would ban anglers, boaters and others from waters that have been public since time immemorial.
“The justices have sent a simple message to these privileged landowners: that they have to share,” Gay continued. “The waters of New Mexico have been and should always be open to all. It’s written in our state constitution plain as day. With this most recent decision we hope streamside landowners will accept the facts and take down the barriers to public access strung willy-nilly across public streams throughout the state. And if they will not, we hope our governor and the Department of Game and Fish have the backbone to force the issue.”
NM BHA and the co-plaintiffs had filed suit in 2020 asking the court to nullify the anti-access regulation as unconstitutional. The state supreme court decision overturned the so-called Non-Navigability Rule and voided closures adopted previously on several New Mexico streams.
“Today’s decision by the Supreme Court is a win for New Mexico, a win for stream access, and a win for public lands users everywhere,” said BHA President and CEO Land Tawney. “Make no mistake: forces are constantly at work to deny citizens our right to access the lands and waters that belong to all of us. Our work will never be over to retain those opportunities, but today we celebrate.”
Tawney further affirmed, “With the Supreme Court’s decision, BHA remains fully committed to working with all stakeholders in New Mexico to find solutions to access challenges that honor the resource, educate the public on wise use practices and balance public and private property rights.”
The New Mexico Constitution, which is based in part on Spanish and Mexican law stemming from the state’s colonial era and differs from other state constitutions, declares that all waters belong to the public. The state Supreme Court spelled out that right to access more than 70 years ago.
Learn more about BHA’s actions in support of public waters access in New Mexico.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
From RepYourWater:
ERIE, Colo. (Feb. 27, 2023) — RepYourWater is excited to announce their Spring 2023 Collection. This new collection is available now and includes a variety of the design-driven apparel and accessories on which RepYourWater has built their brand.
“Our new Spring Collection continues to build on years of creative fly fishing design, offering more functional apparel and increasing products built from sustainable materials,” state RepYourWater co-founders Garrison and Corinne Doctor. “From new 100% recycled sun shirts and hoodies to crisp new hats and lifestyle accessories like drinkware and stickers, this collection has something for every angler. And as always, every RepYourWater purchase supports our conservation partners.”
Among the highlights of the collection, RepYourWater is excited to unveil new hat designs. Some new favorites are the Brown Trout Snacks and Rainbow Trout Snacks hats. New options in the low-profile and high-profile fits are also available to fit heads on both ends of the size spectrum.
Another addition for Spring 2023 is the Feather Fly Collection. This collection, which includes shirts, hats, drinkware, and a sticker, features a reproduction of the original drawing “Feather Dry Fly” from RepYourWater’s Garrison Doctor.
Heading into the warmer months, RepYourWater will be adding to their Sun Shirts and Hoodies lineup. With two functional and comfortable fabrics to choose from, no angler can go wrong. The 100% recycled polyester gives second life to plastic bottles, making these sun shirts and sun hoodies a perfect fishing shirt. They are incredibly light for the hottest days on a high mountain stream or out on the flats, and they are rated UPF 50+ and the ultralight fabric dries quickly in the majority of conditions.
The Merino Blend Sun Shirts, which won Best Men’s General Apparel at the 2022 International Fly Tackle Dealer New Product Awards, will be back in 2023 with brand new colors, designs, and the popular Retro Camo and Brown Snacks styles. The softness and functionality of merino and the lightweight features of polyester make this a perfect sun shirt and perfect base layer depending on the conditions.
For those looking to enjoy their favorite drink with fish and fishing-themed glasses, the Spring 2023 Collection also includes new drinkware. The new Feather Fly design will be available on a stemless wine glass and a beer glass, and Silver King and Big Bow artwork will be available on an old fashioned glass.
To learn more about what’s new for Spring 2023 from RepYourWater, please visit repyourwater.com.
About RepYourWater:
Founded by husband and wife team Garrison and Corinne Doctor, RepYourWater is an apparel company dedicated to providing uniquely designed, top quality gear for anglers, hunters, outdoorsmen and women while increasing support of local conservation and inspiring exploration.
For more information about RepYourWater, please visit their website and follow RepYourWater on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
In WADING FOR CHANGE — a new film coming to the Fly Fishing Film Tour, Jr Rodriguez takes on Western waters, a passion for conservation, and an interest in bringing in more anglers to participate in his passion.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“For conservationist and angler Jr Rodriguez to become “like the pictures he saw in magazines,” he had to leave behind what he loved the most. By juxtaposing Jr’s origins in Houston, Texas, and his current home in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, we share his journey of learning to love the outdoors and what it can be like to participate in outdoor sports in Western mountain towns as a person of color.”
To check out more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
Erik Argotti of The Fly Shop in Redding, California, is a world traveling angler who has visited some of the world’s most exciting fly fishing destinations. Back from recent travels, he sat down for an interview about his travels:
Where in the world have you fly fished?
Closer to home, I have fished Montana/Idaho/Wyoming/Washington, California. I have fished in Pennsylvania as well as West Virginia and North Carolina. Florida for tarpon. Louisiana and Texas for redfish. I have fished Canada in British Columbia and Ontario, and all over Alaska. Mexico, Kamchatka, Mongolia, Argentina, Chile, New Zealand for some more far off places.
What is your favorite destination and why?
That is a hard and general question. I really like everywhere I go for certain reasons. Kamchatka for remoteness and mousing. Mongolia was an amazing experience of fish, people/culture and landscape. New Zealand was probably one of my favorite trips because I traveled for three months and fished every day and it was all sight fishing in a beautiful landscape and settings. Lately though saltwater fishing had really taken over. I love sight fishing for anything and because most of saltwater is so visual it has taken front stage. I love it. I can’t think of anything better than poling around, being in sync with your guide and hunting fish. Both of you doing your part. I really enjoyed sight fishing for tarpon in clear waters of Florida. Very challenging and watching a 100+ pound fish inhale your fly, and then jump five times as it screams into your backing. This gets into your blood. It is addicting.
What is the most memorable travel experience you have and why?
Difficult again. I don’t know why, but from guiding it seems like so many of the people I guided always remembered the things that scared the hell out of them. Close bear encounters, being stuck, scary plane incidents, falling in etc. I guess it is no different for me.
I had a side trip in New Zealand where we got some intel about some big fish. We went over and planned a few days hiking in and staying in huts along the way and checking out the river. We parked at the trailhead, followed a trail that started along the river, but slowly went away and very much above the water. I got impatient, so I thought we could just cut off trail and head to the river. We were way above the river and it was pretty steep getting and as we made our way down through bushwhacking through NZ bush, and as we got closer to the river we ran into some cliffs. I felt we were too committed to go back up, so I maneuvered my way down, and got to a little chute and as I got closer to have a look, I slid down the chute and clawed my way for something to grab. As I slipped closer to the edge, I grabbed onto some small saplings and just as I was about to go over the edge, I came to a slow stop, with rocks and debris going over. I regained my composure and I was kind of stuck. I assessed my situation and since the pack was big for multi day trips, I took it off and decided to throw it down over the edge, so I was more maneuverable. As I watched it tumble end over end for 100 yards down the steep bank and it looked like a yard sale as stuff was flying out. It was a scary reminder, that probably would have been me. The chute was steep and I was afraid If is stared back up, I could slip and this could happen again. There was an edge, 6 feet down, that I thought I could scale down to, but after a quick assessment, decided against it. Thinking back this would have been very dump. I decided to take my chances and clawed back up. After some anxious climbing and relying on small shrubs and saplings to hold me I made it back up and went looking for another place to get down. I went to the downstream side and although I thought it was a good, open, not as steep spot, it had a bunch of loose rocks and as I started down I slipped and slid about 50 yards, ripping my pants, tearing the strap off my sandal and spraining my wrist. At the bottom, bloody and ripped up. I could look up and it looked much steeper than from above. I guided my partner down to the opposite side, where it was much gentler of a slope. We got our things, I sewed my sandals to make it work and we went up river. It was the best fishing in the whole three months in New Zealand. We had three days of lots 6-8 pound fish and one fish we hooked into that had to be 12-15 pounds. Although with my sprained wrist, I didn’t catch but one. I was the spotter, which was fine be me. I almost liked seeing the takes over catching them. I have had other memorable moments, but that one just came to mind.
What has been the best trip so far and why?
Mongolia was amazing as far as trips go. Not sure if it is the best or the most recent big trip so fresh in my mind. The whole package of fishing, landscape, and people. We floated 150 miles and never saw another angler. Lots of locals which was all part of the experience. It is good to see big, clean rivers that are still very wild and intact the way they have been for a long time.
Do you have any travel coming up?
Yes, A week on Crooked and Acklins and a week+ on Andros in the Bahamas coming up here real soon. Bolivia in the summer for golden dorado. I am looking at Tanzania in the fall for tiger fish. I am working on Iceland and a remote float in Alaska for 2024.
Is there a specie that you are dying to catch? What is it about that fish?
I am not much of a species check off guy. I am more about the experience. But I would say though I would like to catch a peacock bass and an Atlantic salmon. I have caught landlocked ones in Argentina, but I would like to tie into a wild/chrome Atlantic salmon on a wild river.
When you are not on the water, what do you want the most out of a trip and why?
A few after fishing drinks with good company, quiet, remote wild places, and beautiful scenery. Not sure what else you need..
What is your dream trip and why?
Anything where I am hunting for fish and casting at these fish. Catching just enough to keep you attention keyed in but not too many to get complacent.
If one song where to play in a video short of your most recent fly fishing trip, what would it be?
Wolf Totem by the HU. It is a Mongolian band and we played this song a lot in Mongolia. It was kind of the theme song for the trip. It reminds me of a haka, the New Zealand ceremonial Māori war dance or challenge. Very powerful and gets you pumped up! If you ever heard a Māori Haka, it makes your hair stand up on the back of your neck.
What is the one piece of gear you couldn’t bear to leave at home?
Never leave home without a headlamp. I think years of guiding in remote places, many without electricity at night, you get accustomed to always having it handy. Some of those places when it gets dark and the generator is turned off, or there is no generator, you want to have that light handy if you need it in the night. Or you are fishing late into the evening and need it to tie on flies. Any big trip, it is always the first thing I grab and put fresh batteries in it.
As you have traveled, what environmental issues have most concerned you?
Clean, wild rivers/oceans and wilderness environments. Untouched places that can remain that way so future generations can see them. You always hear guys say fishing is not like it used to be for certain fisheries. And although I am sure memories are shifted when we think back to good old days of fishing. There is lots of truths to fishing in places that are wild and untouched and are unchanged by our presence. There is no comparison to casting a mouse in Kamchatka all day and catching fish after fish on a river where you might be the only one to fish for the summer. Floating 150 miles and in Mongolia and not seeing another fisherman and fishing for wild, native fish. I think we have screwed up too many places and really need to preserve the remaining places that are truly wild and remote.
To check out more from Erik Argotti and The Fly Shop, please click here.
Fly fishing for permit in Oman is the focus of 4 of a KIND — a new film coming to the Fly Fishing Film Tour that follows Oliver White and Jako Lucas as they take on a coveted fish.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“Fly fishing has brought Oliver White and Jako Lucas to the farthest reaches of the globe in search of countless species, uncharted waterways and adventure. The abundance of stamps in their passports may only be surpassed by that of the stories they’ve collected along the way; tales of triumph, connections and, sometimes, misadventure.
To some, it may seem that Oliver and Jako have ‘done it all’. This film debunks that notion, chronicling their quest to do something neither has yet to accomplish: complete the permit slam. Having both caught three of the four widely known species of permit to date, ‘4 of a Kind’ follows these two friends as they travel to Oman in pursuit of the Africanus, their fourth and final permit species.
With its arid desert climate and dramatic rock faces, Oman’s coastline abruptly meets the turquoise, turbulent waters of the Arabian Sea, home to this elusive saltwater species. A relatively unknown challenge for most fly anglers, the Africanus and its unique environment plays with a stacked deck against this seasoned duo. Watch Oliver and Jako play their hand to see whether or not they have what it takes to hit ‘4 of a Kind.'”
To check out more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
A new stoke reel ought to get folks excited for the 2023 Fly Fishing Film Tour! Enjoy …
To check out more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
A redfish trip is the focus of STEVE’S RED — a new film coming to the Fly Fishing Film Tour.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“Steve is an all-around Southern fly angler. He’s caught everything on the fly: smallies, largemouths, sunfish, and even gar. But, one fish eludes him— the crown of Southern saltwater— redfish.
The plan is simple: head down to an overwater camp deep in the Louisiana bayou and notch a thick piece of copper glory. But, as the BlueLine FlyCo guys are known for… shenanigans ensue.”
To check out more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
The Eastern Sierras offer unprecedented access to vast wilderness, and in those high country waters, angler can find gold in the form of golden trout. CACHE OF GOLD is a new film coming to the Fly Fishing Film Tour that takes on these wild fish.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“Follow Seth Blackamore as he takes a few new friends high into the Eastern Sierra Nevada in search of Golden Trout. Blackamore has been exploring these mountains and lakes for almost a decade and this adventure proved to be the wildest one yet. With help from a local pack outfit, Blackamore loads the crew up on mules to journey up to 12,000 feet to set up a basecamp for the late-summer adventure.”
To check out more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
While winter has us often longing for warm weather and prolific hatches, this season can also be a great time to be on the water. A video from Off the Grid Studios breaks down what makes winter fly fishing so good.
To see more from Off the Grid Studios, please click here.
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Disclosure: Off the Grid Studios is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
Pennsylvania has some of the best fly fishing in the country, and a new film from Fly Fisherman follows anglers as they take on the waters of the famed Susquehanna River watershed.
From Fly Fisherman:
“Sometimes a monumental journey can be close to home. Join us on an adventure based in the Susquehanna river watershed of Pennsylvania that shows the healing nature of fly fishing, separating yourself from the busy world we live in… even if its in your own backyard.”
To check out more from Fly Fisherman, please click here.
Another new Fly Fishing Film Tour has been released — this time for BLEED WATER — a film about fly fishing in New England.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“In a sleepy corner of New England where most rivers have been forgotten due to industrial era damage, Dan and Tom Harrison have spent over a decade changing the perception of the North East for anglers all over the country. What were once thought of as uninhabitable rivers are now being recognized as some of the best fisheries east of the Mississippi. Armed with western guiding skills and flatbeds with winches and rafts, the brothers starting dropping into any blue line they could find.
New England is a part of them, and the waters flow through their veins. Their near manic obsession with finding the next great river has taken them over the sides of guardrails and even down a waterfall or two. That unwavering commitment to throw a raft into anything that looks fishable has turned into a cornerstone in their region, unlocking epic fisheries all of New England’s guiding community.”
To check out more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
YETI has just announced (and released) their new Lowball Tumblers. Big fans of the Lowballs already, the new drinkwear is now stackable. Smart!
To learn more about the YETI 10 oz Lowball Tumbler, please click here.
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Disclosure: YETI is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
Anglers head deep into the backcountry of Idaho to fly fish for trout. A new one from WildFly Productions.
From WildFly Productions:
“Just a few weeks ago, I didn’t even own a bike. But here we were, climbing up an old service road in the middle of nowhere Idaho and I was starting to feel the reality of my inexperience. We were here to fish, but truthfully it was hard to even think about fishing with what was ahead of us. We were deep in bear country with no cell service, no support vehicle, and no option of turning around. It was just us, our bikes, and hopefully everything we needed to survive for the next six days.”
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
Off the Grid Studios has released another one of their classic films. In CHANOS CHANOS, anglers take on milkfish on the fly.
From Off the Grid Studios:
“Nearly three hundred miles southeast of Mahé, Seychelles lies far-flung Alphonse Island and adjacent to it, St. François Lagoon. This is remote, even for the Indian Ocean. Alphonse, one of the famed saltwater destinations of the planet, is by most accounts home to the most prolific milkfish fishery in the world. In CHANOS CHANOS anglers take on milkfish — a truly exotic species for fly anglers.”
To see more from Off the Grid Studios, please click here.
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Disclosure: Off the Grid Studios is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
From Bonefish & Tarpon Trust:
Miami, FL – Captain Steve Huff’s illustrious career and dedication to conserving Florida’s Everglades is showcased in a powerful new film directed by Captain David Mangum and Patrick Rhea and produced by SEAHOLM and Gordy & Sons Outfitters with support from Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT), Patagonia, YETI, Captains for Clean Water, and the International Game Fish Association (IGFA). Huff premieres online on February 13 and will be screened at special events throughout the spring.
“Steve’s career has spanned well over 50 years, and during that time he has done very little if anything to promote himself, other than push his boat from daylight to dusk,” said Mangum. “For the lucky few that have gotten to fish with Steve, his charm, character, and overall presence are etched in memories deeper than any fish ever caught. This short film is a chance for everyone to get to share a few minutes with a man that has brought so much to the world of fishing!”
Widely considered the greatest saltwater fly-fishing guide of all time, Huff began guiding in 1968 in the Florida Keys after graduating from the University of Miami with a degree in marine biology. As a pioneer of the tarpon fishery in the Everglades and in Homosassa, Florida, Huff guided angler Tom Evans to six tarpon world records on four different line classes. Together with Del Brown, Huff popularized permit fishing and developed techniques for catching permit on fly tackle. Huff guided anglers to well over 2,000 permit on fly, and set multiple world-records with Brown. In the 1970s and 1980s, he guided anglers to 13 championships in the Gold Cup Tarpon Tournament, the Islamorada Invitational Bonefish Tournament, and the Islamorada Invitational Fly Bonefish Tournament.
“Huff is less a film about fly fishing and more about a man’s life,” said Todd Adams, Founder of SEAHOLM. “Steve Huff has lived a good life. Not an easy life but one that is true. Rarely, does a short film have such an emotional impact.”
Huff possesses an encyclopedic knowledge of the details of caught fish, tidal influences on a particular area or flat, or how fishable a location will be in various conditions. His knowledge is not only grounded in the countless hours he’s spent on the poling platform, but also hidden behind the power of observation and his dedication to continued learning at every opportunity. In 2010, he became the first full-time professional fishing guide ever inducted into the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame. “He is without question the top fly-fishing guide on the planet,” said angler Sandy Moret, owner of Florida Keys Outfitters and a member of BTT’s Board of Directors. Huff was honored by BTT in 2019 for 50 years of guiding in South Florida.
“Steve Huff is a legend of our sport not only for his prowess on the water, but also for his advocacy to ‘adamantly protect and defend’ the Everglades in the face of so many environmental challenges,” said BTT President and CEO Jim McDuffie. “BTT is proud to support this new film, which offers an inspiring look into Steve’s profound connection with the landscape and waters that have defined his career as arguably the greatest saltwater fly-fishing guide of all time. We hope it serves to inspire other anglers to be stewards of the waters they fish.”
About Bonefish & Tarpon Trust
Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s mission is to conserve bonefish, tarpon and permit—the species, their habitats and the larger fisheries they comprise. BTT pursues this mission across the southeastern US, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea through science-based conservation, education and advocacy.
Anglers take on tarpon in Mexico in THE HOLY WELL — a new film coming to the Fly Fishing Film Tour.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“For 15 years, a group of friends have battled budgets, bad timing, and bad luck. From weathering hurricanes, to being marooned on an uninhabited island, they’ve seen it all. Well, except for good fishing.
This year they’ve joined forces with a sage of flats fishing, Nick Denbow, who just might have the key to unlock their fishing misery. All signs point to the ‘Holy Well.'”
To check out more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
For fly anglers, Martha’s Vineyard is known for striped bass and bluefish for than anything. And when a migration is happening, this destination can be one of the best out there for fly fishing. A video from Will Phelps follows anglers as they take on this fish and destination.
From Will Phelps:
“This was my first time ever targeting striped bass on the fly, and it totally exceeded my expectations. This was much to the credit of our fantastic guide, Capt. Natty Schneider with Kismet Outfitters. It was incredible to sight fish to schools of stripers cruising around the rocks and over the sandy bottom. We were lucky enough to encounter a blitz, with numerous stripers and bluefish feeding heavily on the surface as birds flocked around and came in feeding on baitfish from above. This experience changed my perspective on New England fly fishing, and I can’t wait to get back out there for some more!”
To check out more from Will Phelps, please click here.
Steelhead fly fishing and rafting on the Oregon Coast in a great new video from Todd Moen and Catch Magazine.
From Catch Magazine:
“Using footage Todd captured years ago, Todd aims to tell the simple story of what it’s like for a fly fishing angler to spend a few days trying to catch a Pacific Northwest Winter Run steelhead on a swung fly. It’s not just about the catch. The real story is in the process, the getting there, the weather, the waiting, the failing, the final hookup and the land.
Jeff Hickman, co-owner of Fish the Swing and Kimsquit Bay Lodge in British Columbia, has a very few and far between guide’s day off on a mighty coastal river that empties into the ocean on the Oregon Coast. A relaxed soundtrack accompanies more natural sounds than what you might find on Todd’s past work. Capturing beauty shots of the river with nature surrounding Jeff, Todd drives home the vibe he’s after. Relax, chill out, take a breath of fresh air…and enjoy the sounds & visuals of this new film. Thanks to R.L. Winston Rod Company, Scientific Anglers and Orvis for encouraging people to get out on the water through the the art of fly fishing and film.”
To check out more from Todd Moen and Catch Magazine, please click here.
Fly fishing for tarpon in Cuba! One of the ultimate destinations and species is the focus of SABALO — a new film coming to the Fly Fishing Film Tour.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“There are several reasons why the Austrian fisherman Helmut Zaderer comes back to Cuba every year. He has been fishing in salt water for many years in the best places in the world but Jardines de la Reina – a protected marine park without commercial fisheries at the Cuban Caribbean East Coast – is one of his favorite places to fish. There are few spots like this anymore – no boats, ships and tourists – untouched nature, healthy corals and lots of fish instead.
In May 2022 Helmut went there with his videographer Vaidas Uselis especially for creating this unique film about Tarpon fishing. In Jardines de la Reina there are usually big schools of these fascinating upto 100 pound powerful fish on the flats. In SABALO – that’s how the Cubans call the Tarpons – you’ll see how fascinating flyfishing in this great area can be.”
To check out more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
Anglers head to the remote flats of Northern Australia in CAPE YORK — a new film coming to the Fly Fishing Film Tour.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“Red dirt roads, untouched flats and remote river systems, Cape York is an iconic part of Northern Australia.
Home to the endemic ‘Anak Permit’ and hard fighting Barramundi, Cape York offers some of the best, most diverse saltwater fly fishing in the world.
Join us on the adventure as American angler, Dave McCoy, joins Aussie Fly Fisher’s, Joshua Hutchins in the wilds of Australia. Special thanks to Tourism Australia GFOaA, YETI, and Costa Sunglasses for their partnership on this film. Filmed and Edited by Kane Chenoweth.”
To check out more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
From the American Museum of Fly Fishing:
February 2, 2023, Manchester, Vermont
AMFF is pleased to announce Nancy Zakon is the 2023 Izaak Walton Award honoree. This event will take place online via Zoom on March 13 at 8:00PM EST, followed by a complimentary, celebratory reception on March 14 at the Key Largo Anglers Club at 6:00 EST. The Zoom portion will be the story-telling stage for some of our greatest female pioneers, as Nancy will be joined by Mary Bloom, Fanny Krieger, Sara Low, Lori-Ann Murphy, and Joan Wulff.
Nancy, as past President of the International Women’s Fly Fishers, instructor in Orvis’ first women’s flyfishing school, a designer of Orvis’ first women’s flyfishing gear, founder of Juliana’s Anglers and Sporting Club of New York City, and Bonefish Bonnies of Key Largo, FL, has been a trailblazer for women in fly fishing.
The American Museum of Fly Fishing established the Izaak Walton Award in 2014 to honor and celebrate individuals who live by the Compleat Angler philosophy. Their passion for the sport of fly fishing and involvement in their angling community provides inspiration for others and promotes the legacy of leadership for future generations. Past winners include:
2022 – Paul Bruun
2021 – Paul Dixon
2020 – Flip Pallot
2019 – Tom Rosenbauer
2018 – Rachel Finn
2017 – Jim Klug
2016 – James Prosek
2015 – Tom Davidson
2014 – Ed Jaworowski
We hope you will save the dates and plan to join us virtually, in person, or both! To support this event at the Leadership Circle Level, please visit this page. For any questions, please email us at amff@amff.org.
Gear news from YETI! YETI just announced the new YETI LoudOut GoBox — a tough, waterproof gear box that is perfect for outdoors enthusiasts. We’re looking forward to reviewing the new LoudOut GoBox soon. Until then, YETI is boasting several key features, including that they are “dustproof, waterproof, and virtually indestructible,” and they now come in three sizes.
To learn more about the new YETI LoudOut GoBox, please click here.
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Disclosure: YETI is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
Mike Tayloe of Finns West joins the podcast to discuss wilderness first aid and first aid training at fly fishing lodges throughout the world.
To see more from Finns West, please click here.
And to check out the podcast, please click below or download our podcast on iTunes, Soundcloud, or Spotify:
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON – A massive industrial mine proposed for the fish- and wildlife-region of Bristol Bay, Alaska, has been blocked by the Environmental Protection Agency, which today announced it is proactively rescinding an industry fill and dredge permit under Section 404(c) of the Clean Water Act that will prevent development of the Pebble Mine.
The EPA determined that mine waste, including dredged or fill material, would have “unacceptable adverse effects” on Bristol Bay’s renowned wild salmon fishery, the largest remaining in the world, including the permanent loss of 8.5 miles of streams. This determination would necessarily preclude development of the Pebble Mine – thereby preventing more than 10.2 billion tons of waste from being disposed of in the Bristol Bay watershed in Alaska.
For more than a decade, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers has been fighting to conserve Bristol Bay, joining a diverse consortium of hunters, anglers, commercial fishermen, Tribal members, business owners and others in advocating for the region. Bristol Bay supports robust recreational, subsistence and commercial salmon fisheries as well as undisturbed habitat for a wide range of wildlife.
“Today is a momentous occasion for the millions of hunters and anglers who have raised our voices for Bristol Bay,” said John Gale, BHA’s vice president of policy and government relations. “The region’s wild rivers support the world’s largest remaining wild salmon fishery, 35 fish species and nearly half of all wild sockeye populations. It also provides undisturbed habitat for moose, caribou, brown bears, black bears and large populations of migratory waterfowl. Some places are too important to develop. Bristol Bay is one of them.”
The Biden administration’s work to conserve Bristol Bay follows actions undertaken by the Trump administration, which helped slow development of the Pebble Mine by requiring the Pebble Partnership to develop strategies for mitigating the project’s adverse impacts on fish and wildlife habitat. Today’s EPA announcement takes a critical next step, as the Trump administration decision is being appealed by Pebble Partnership.
“To Alaskans and visitors alike, the Bristol Bay region is considered one of the world’s top destinations for hunting and fishing. Additionally, for thousands of years, the annual returns of salmon have been the foundation of Alaska Native culture and lifestyle in the region,” said Kevin Fraley, an Alaska BHA board member and fisheries biologist. “Bristol Bay salmon provide a flood of nutrients into rivers, lakes, and forests, feeding giant coastal brown bears, hulking rainbow trout, bald eagles, Dolly Varden, and Arctic grayling. We are delighted that an additional layer of protection will be afforded to the region’s ecosystems thanks to this decision.”
BHA will continue working with indigenous communities, business leaders and our conservation partners to advocate for safeguards that add durability to EPA’s decision and secure greater certainty for the future of Bristol Bay and the tremendous fish and wildlife resources that drive our outdoor traditions and fuel the sustainability of critical economies.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
Katie McKalip
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
CARPLAND — a classic from RA Beattie and Off the Grid Studios — is now live online. This is a fun one to say the least.
From Off the Grid Studios:
“This documentary-style film is about fishing for carp in the U.S.A. as experienced through the lens of fly fishermen in various locations. Prized around much of the world as a desirable menu item – and in some areas as a game fish – the name carp carries negative connotations in the U.S. when it comes to its value as table-fare and a sportfish. CARPLAND the “Movie of the Year” winner at the Drake Magazine Fly Fishing Film Awards.”
To see more from Off the Grid Studios, please click here.
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Disclosure: Off the Grid Studios is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
Here come the trailers for the 2023 Fly Fishing Film Tour! To get things kicked off, the trailer for THE BELT BUCKLE is now live online.
From the Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“The Belt Buckle is an epic western inspired tale that follows four friends and their pursuit for ultimate fly fishing glory. For just over a century, an exclusive fly fishing competition has been held each and every season.
Whoever catches the biggest fish that year goes home with the elusive Belt Buckle, a family heirloom that dates back to 1922. It has been passed down the Berry family line, now belonging to two brothers Cale and Riley, who have continued the tradition, bringing in their closest friends and fishing buddies to compete in this momentous event.
So, sit back, buckle up and enjoy the drama, comedy and excellent fishing this wild tale has to offer.”
To check out more from the Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
A highlight reel from Waist Deep Media shows some great fly fishing footage from 2022.
From Waist Deep Media:
“2022 felt like a breakout year in fishing, filming and of course the pandemic. With over 10TB of footage shot in 2022 I had a very hard time getting this down to 2 minutes. With some new tools, great friends and awesome locations I was able to capture the action in more detail and using new techniques that make for my best work to date.
Shot entirely in the state of Washington(with one small exception for a clip from Idaho).”
To check out more from Waist Deep Media, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Backcountry Hunters & Anglers commends the decision to advance long-term protections for the Rainy River watershed and the pristine waters of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a crown jewel of public lands and waters in northeast Minnesota and America’s most visited wilderness area.
An administrative mineral withdrawal secured jointly through the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service would establish a moratorium on mineral extraction in the region. In 2016, the Obama administration took steps to withdraw portions of the watershed from new minerals development. In 2018, the Trump administration canceled the Forest Service’s withdrawal application and the associated environmental review after three public meetings had already been conducted, more than 90,000 public comments collected, and environmental analyses undertaken.
Today’s decision is an important milestone following the environmental analysis of the Boundary Waters and the potential effects of copper-nickel mining in this pristine watershed reinitiated by the Biden Administration in 2021. The results of that analysis showed major risks from mineral extraction. The administration’s withdrawal proposal would prohibit the development of any mineral leases on approximately 225,504 acres of Superior National Forest lands within the watershed of the Boundary Waters for up to 20 years.
“Across the country, the significance of the historic decision by Interior Secretary Deb Haaland to implement 20-year protections for the Boundary Waters is being celebrated. Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters would like to express our deepest gratitude to this Administration for its leadership in protecting the BWCA from sulfide-ore copper mining,” said Lukas Leaf, Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters executive director.
“Not only is this announcement a milestone in the history of the BWCA, but it also affirms the immeasurable value of the Boundary Waters to Minnesota’s outdoor economy, its unparalleled recreational opportunities, and its contribution to the legacy of our nation’s public lands and waters. Thank you to all who have stood shoulder to shoulder with us for years in defense of the Boundary Waters.”
Those recreational opportunities offer an incredible opportunity to canoe, camp, fish and experience an invaluable landscape.
“The time I’ve spent in the Boundary Waters – especially with my family by my side – are memories I deeply cherish. Today’s decision by this administration to protect these unique public lands and waters will not only conserve an irreplaceable landscape; it also will ensure that experiences like mine will be possible for all Americans and their families to enjoy, forever,” said Land Tawney, CEO of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers.
The proposed copper-nickel mining that threatens the Boundary Waters is not connected to Minnesota’s Iron Range heritage, and BHA recognizes the importance of responsible mining to local communities in the state. Sulfide mining, however, has a poor track record that jeopardizes the Rainy River watershed and the complexly interconnected hydrology systems that feed the Boundary Waters.
“Backcountry Hunters & Anglers of Minnesota is encouraged by the prospect of solidifying protections for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness,” said Eli Mansfield, board chair of the Minnesota chapter of BHA. “Our focus from the beginning of this discussion has been to draw attention to the potential irreversible impacts of copper sulfide mining in one of the nation’s most visited outdoor recreation areas. Our chapter and its members will continue to foster discussions regarding pragmatic stewardship of public lands across the state of Minnesota. As it relates to the BWCA specifically, we join together with our friends in conservation to celebrate the decision to protect our state’s crown jewel of accessible public lands.”
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
Early season fly fishing action in Northern Ontario made for good fishing for pike and smallmouth bass in a video from the New Fly Fisher.
From the New Fly Fisher:
“Mark Melnyk is in NW Ontario fishing for big smallmouth bass and pike right after ice out. He is the guest of Stanleys Resort in NW Ontario.”
To check out more from the New Fly Fisher, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON – Unique backcountry fish and wildlife habitat in America’s largest national forest, the Tongass in Alaska, will once again be conserved under a rule finalized today by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
This afternoon’s announcement by the USDA is the latest decision affecting the long-term management of the 9.3 million acres of roadless backcountry lands in the Tongass. The USDA rule restores long-established protections for these areas, which comprise habitat for sought-after game species, including mountain goats, Sitka black-tailed deer and both brown and black bears, and encompass thousands of miles of salmon-rich waterways, legendary among anglers and fundamental to the state’s commercial salmon industry.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers has consistently voiced support for responsible management of roadless areas within the Tongass, and BHA today applauded the administration’s decision.
“Alaska hunters, anglers, Tribal Nations, outdoor recreationists, business owners and community members have collectively stepped up to support conserving the Tongass’s unique backcountry roadless areas,” said John Gale, BHA vice president of policy and government relations. “These public lands and waters comprise invaluable fish and wildlife habitat and play an important role in the economies of communities across southeast Alaska.
“Of the 1.6 million comments submitted by Alaskans and others during the original roadless rulemaking process, 95 percent supported strong roadless area protections,” Gale continued. “We thank the administration for taking action to uphold the integrity of this cherished backcountry landscape by ensuring the long-term conservation of roadless lands in the Tongass.”
The 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule guides management of 58.5 million acres of backcountry national forests. However in 2018 the USDA formally undertook a rulemaking process to develop an Alaska-specific version of the national roadless rule following a request by the state of Alaska, which wanted to facilitate increased development of and industrial access to roadless lands in the state. In 2020 the Forest Service repealed roadless protections for the Tongass in its entirety, opening the world’s largest intact temperate rainforest to harmful development.
“The Tongass National Forest is one of the world’s largest salmon spawning areas, and its importance must not be understated,” said BHA Alaska Coordinator James Majetich. “Many Alaskans rely on the hunting and fishing opportunities it provides in order to continue their subsistence way of life. The USDA rule reinstating roadless area protections in the Tongass keeps an irreplaceable habitat for wildlife and Alaskans intact, and Alaska BHA is pleased with the administration’s decision to implement it.”
The 2001 Roadless Rule represents a collaborative management approach that was adopted following one of the most extensive public engagement campaigns in the history of federal rulemaking.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
Nothing beats exploring backcountry waters in search of wild fish. In a video from WildFly Productions, anglers take on the wilderness of Utah.
From WildFly Productions:
“72 HOURS IN THE UINTAS: A backcountry fly fishing trip through the Utah mountains on Side x Sides.”
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
Dorado in Argentina are the focus of a video from Jako Lukas and Capt. Jack Productions. This one is a little older, but it’s no less clear how good the dorado fishing in Argentina can be.
From the filmmaker:
“For many years one of Latin America’s most exciting game fish was kept a secret in its heartland. For over a decade now, the Golden Dorado or ‘River Tiger’ as it is affectionately known, has been discovered and has quickly become a one-of-a-kind fly-fishing experience.
Pira Lodge is located in Northern Argentina’s Iberá Marshlands and is protected by a natural preserve more than twice the size of the Florida Everglades. Fishing for Golden Dorado, one of the most voracious and beautiful species to swim the planet, takes place aboard a fleet of 16-foot Hell’s Bay flats skiffs. You’ll dodge caymans and catch freshwater Dorado in the 5-to 20- pound class on everything from dry flies to stripped streamers. When your fishing day’s done, decompress and take in a traditional asado at one of the finest lodges fishing has to offer. However, it is the electric take and dazzling fight of the Dorado that bring fishermen back year after year!”
To check out more from Jako Lucas and Capt Jack Productions, please click here.
Originally released in 2017, Corazón is an all-time favorite fly fishing film. (Read our review here.) The full film is now available to watch online.
From Off the Grid Studios:
“On the tiny island of Holbox, a stone’s throw from the Mexico mainland, lives a legendary angler named Sandflea. People from all over the world travel to fish with him. This is the story of the unlikely friendship between two anglers and the willingness of the fly fishing industry to rally around a guide in need.
This film originally premiered at the 2017 Fly Fishing Film Tour.
Starring Mike Dawes, Alejandro ‘Sandflea’ Vega Cruz Location: Holbox and Punta Allen, Mexico”
To see more from Off the Grid Studios, please click here.
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Disclosure: Off the Grid Studios is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
Triggerfish action in Sudan! In a video from African Waters, anglers walk the remote flats of Sudan in search of triggerfish.
To check out more from African Waters, please click here.
RIO Products has announces new lines for flats anglers. From RIO Products:
Avid Bonefish
RIO’s Avid Bonefish was designed for the specific needs of bonefish fly anglers. This line has a long head and rear taper to smooth out the loop, and to make long efficient casts. The mid length front taper produces great turnover and easy presentation of typical bonefish flies. This is a high floating line that will not sink or impede the cast. It’s built on a strong, medium stiff core that won’t wilt in the heat, and is coated with our best coating – SlickCast.
Technologies:
SlickCast – Exceptionally slick finish, and a super tough coating to keep you on the water
Features:
- Front & back welded loop
- Single color and 80ft length
Line Sizes: WF7F, WF8F, WF9F
MSRP: $69.99
LINK: https://farbank.com/products/rio-avid-bonefish
Avid Tarpon
RIO’s Avid Tarpon was designed for anglers specifically targeting tarpon and other large tropical species. This line has a mid-length head and a short, powerful front taper designed to efficiently cast typical tarpon flies. The rear weight distribution easily loads powerful saltwater fly rods and ensures the very best in presentation so as not to spook wary poons. It’s built on strong, medium stiff core that won’t wilt in the heat and uses the slickest and most durable coating technology on the market, SlickCast. All of this combines to make the it the ideal all-around line for a range of tarpon fishing scenarios.
Technologies:
SlickCast – Exceptionally slick finish, and a super tough coating to keep you on the water
Features:
- Front & back welded loop
- Single color and 80ft length
Line Sizes: WF10F, WF11F, WF12F
MSRP: $69.99
LINK: https://farbank.com/products/rio-avid-tarpon
About RIO:
In 1990, Jim and Kitty Vincent founded RIO in the mountains of Idaho on the idea that exceptional fly fishing products should be built by anglers for anglers. More than twenty-five years later, we’re still in Idaho and driven by that same ethos.
Fly fishing the California surf! In Northern California and the Central Coast, striped bass migrate along the beaches and give surf anglers a fun challenge while enjoying the surroundings of the most picturesque landscapes. This fishery is the focus of a new video from Loon.
From Loon:
“We recently explored San Francisco Bay Area with George Revel and Steve Adachi of Lost Coast Outfitters along with Evan Praskin of Stokeventures Fly Fishing, as well as a few anglers from the Northern California surf fly fishing community; Pete Fazzini, William O’Neil, Paul Waters, Owen Murray and Cash Bolos to experience fly fishing the Northern California surf. These passionate anglers share the story of the rise and recent decline of non-native Striped Bass due to water exports, climate change, over-fishing, poor water management, and the agricultural industry. Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Different Fish, Different Places'”
To check out more from Loon Outdoors, please click here.
From Redington:
Love reading water? Strategically pick apart every pool and riffle? Determined to catch a fish in that hole despite all the challenging variables? Well then, the new STRIKE is the rod for you. Built specifically for the euro nymph angler, you can maximize your fly fishing opportunities with spellbinding precision.
We dreamt up the STRIKE to give the angler an advanced fish catching advantage for specific euro nymphing applications. A new, improved, focused model list covers the most popular length and weight for euro nymphing applications. In addition, the STRIKE features a new medium-fast action blank, improving accuracy and ease of casting. With a traditional down-locking reel seat, micro-fighting butt, single-foot guides, and re-shaped handle for better balance points, the STRIKE is tuned and outfitted for the finest details applied in euro nymphing techniques.
Added features include a new stripping guide, optimally positioned to remove line sag, and two tip-positioned snake guides that prevent fine leaders from wrapping around the guides when casting or repositioning the drift. Complete with superior presentation control and strike sensitivity thanks to a new uber-responsive tip.
Features:
- Medium-fast action, with new extra-sensitive tip section for increased strike detection
- Re-shaped handle, allowing the angler a better balance point closer to the reel
- CNC machined & anondized aluminum reel seat with micro-fighting butt
- Single-foot guides to reduce weight
- Two tip-positioned snake guides prevent fine leaders from wrapping around the end of the rod
- Unpainted blank for stealth appearance and prevention of rod flash
- Epoxy-coated section tips to prevent sticking points
- Includes ballistic nylon rod tube with built-in rod dividers
- Lifetime warranty
Sizes: 2100-4, 3106-4, 4106-4
MSRP: $349.99
Check it out here:
https://farbank.com/collections/redington-strike-freshwater
About Redington:
Redington was founded in 1992 and has always brought innovative and performance driven products to the market at a tremendous value to anglers world wide. From experienced anglers to beginners just getting their feet wet for the first time, Redington delivers the goods. Every time. Located in the Pacific Northwest where we have access to some of the most wonderful fishing resources in the world, Redington delivers products that get the most out of your time on the water and really, just make fly fishing more fun. The people of Redington design the best products for the outdoor and fly fishing enthusiast because they love and enjoy the same world you do. Making versatile and value-oriented fly rods, reels, waders, and apparel, Redington delivers what you’ve been missing. Versatility that performs, value you need, and quality you deserve.
New year, new issue of The Mission!
The Mission has truly become a favorite rag for anglers who love everything from destination content to angler profiles. In the new issue, anglers take on a number of destinations throughout Africa. There’s also a great breakdown of new gear and other features.
To check out the new issue of The Mission, please click here.
In the second fly of a trilogy, Sandflea, Mike Dawes and others head to Alaska to fish a remote wilderness river.
From Off the Grid Studios:
“Following “SCORPION EXPEDITION,” the anglers and OTG crew embarked on another trip into the remote wilderness — this time to a hyper-remote Alaskan river. In the film, “FRONTERA NORTE,” the Mexican national known throughout the angling world as ‘Sandflea’ emerges as one of the central figures in the series with his notable and hilarious commentary about the dramatic northern adventure. This full film is now available to watch in full here. Produced by:
http://beattieproductions.com/
http://offthegridstudios.com/“
To see more from Off the Grid Studios, please click here.
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Disclosure: Off the Grid Studios is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
Finding backcountry creeks with good fishing can be a rewarding experience. In a video from Trouts, anglers find some great fishing off the grid.
From Trouts:
“Remember the Small Streams episode of Reading Water with Tanner Smith? If you don’t, you can watch it HERE (https://youtu.be/hoowIKBGotU). Well, that very same day, Tanner fished way more than that one super-productive run. Plenty of backcountry miles were covered in pursuit of wild brook trout, rainbows, cutbows, and hopefully a native cutthroat. Join us as we follow along with Tanner on a late summer day throwing big bushy dry flies to hungry small stream trout. It was one of those days that you dream of. While fishing started a bit slow, by midday, Tanner was catching his fair share. Fish munching big terrestrials and attractors…does it get better than that?”
To check out more from Trouts, please click here.
Fishing streamers to dorado in Argentina! Anglers head to South America to fish the Paraná River for dorado in a video from Fly Fish Food.
From Fly Fish Food:
“We had the opportunity to go fly fish for one of the most incredible species of fish on the planet. The vibrance of the Dorado is the reason we ventured to the Paraná River in Argentina to experience the golden treasure for ourselves. The Paraná River’s average discharge is roughly 700,000 cfs. A River this big is bound to be the home of monster Golden Dorado. Having heard about these fish 25 years ago, we did not hold back when casting large streamers day in and day out. And in the end it did not disappoint.”
To check out more from Fly Fish Food, please click here.
RA Beattie is an accomplished filmmaker whose work has entertained and inspired anglers for many years. In an episode of The Venturing Angler Podcast, RA discusses his career and new film projects.
To see more from Off the Grid Studios, please click here.
The Venturing Angler Podcast: Fly Fishing Filmmaking with RA Beattie of Off the Grid Studios
Triggerfish are a fascinating fish that live on reefs and flats throughout the world. A video from BBC Earth shows these fish guarding a reef.
From BBC Earth:
“An over abundance of crown-of-thorns starfish and long-spined sea urchins can be damaging for coral reefs. Luckily, there is a renowned defender of the reefs ready to take them on…”
To check out more from BBC Earth, please click here.
From Sage:
BAINBRIDGE ISLAND, Wash. (January 4th, 2023) –
For 2023, Sage introduces the next generation of flats-specific fly reels in the ENFORCER Reel family.
Sage’s all-new ENFORCER Reel family has been built around the performance developed with their big game THERMO Reels – sized down to accommodate a lighter package and the overall needs of the serious saltwater flats angler. Designed with peak performance in mind, the ENFORCER offers everything the flats angler needs in a reel, whether taming the explosive runs of double-digit Bonefish or putting the brakes on the freight train pull of triple-digit tarpon. Simply put, this is the ultimate saltwater reel for flats and heavy-duty fly-fishing applications.
“The ENFORCER has been designed to bring exceptional stability and smoothness to the fish fight – this has been achieved through an updated bearing configuration. Compared to the previous SPECTRUM Max family, we have also increased the upper limit of resistance in the drag system, so that you have smooth stopping power when it matters.” – Joseph Conrad, Sage Reel Designer
Sage beefed up the O-rings and drag plates for added durability, consistency, and reliability. Maximum drag has been increased by 50% over the ENFORCER’s predecessor, the SPECTRUM Max; you’ll find eight pounds at the arbor in the 7/8 size, 15 pounds in the 9/10 size, and 17 pounds at the arbor in the 11/12 size. For saltwater anglers fishing heavy tippets who don’t want to let fish run continuously—or who care enough about their fingers to avoid palming fast spinning spools—this increased drag allows them to get most out of their reel without sacrificing any metacarpals.
The ENFORCER is more durable than any of Sage’s saltwater flats reels, with larger drag discs to better disperse pressure and maintain the consistency of the power band throughout the fight by stabilizing inherent stopping strength. An all-new reel foot design with radiused corners prevents abrasion to leaders wrapped around the reel foot for storage—or in the unfortunate, but inevitable, moments when the line wraps around the foot in the initial chaos of the hookup.
ENFORCER Highlights
• 50% Higher Drag Than SPECTRUM Family
• Enlarged and Improved Seals
• Increased Durability
• More Rigidity
• New Radius Cornered Reel Foot
Features
- Ultra-Robust SCS Drag
- One Revolution Drag Knob with numbered and detented settings
- Radius cornered reel foot to prevent line/leader abrasion
- Large arbor for fast line pick-up
- Concave, ported arbor for greater strength and capacity
- Large diameter ergonomic handle
- Quick-change spool mechanism
- Fully machined 6061-T6 aerospace grade aluminum
Take these features—the old standbys, the innovations—and wrap them up in a burlier and more rigid and rugged cold-forged aluminum frame and you have a reel that will stand up to the drops, knocks, and beatdowns that frequently occur in saltwater fishing situations. For more information on ENFORCER, please visit https://farbank.com/collections/sage-enforcer-saltwater
MSRP : $575
MODELS
• 7wt – 8wt | 200 yds/20lb | 8lbs drag
• 9wt – 10wt | 200 yds/30lb | 15lbs drag
• 11wt – 12wt | 300 yds/30lb | 17lbs drag
About Sage: Founded in 1980, Sage was created with one idea in mind—to build the world’s finest performance fly rods. From the start, Sage has maintained that singular focus on delivering the finest performance fly fishing rods, reels, and equipment to the avid angler. We are a company of passionate anglers and craftsmen, continually seeking performance advantages through new materials, designs, and engagement with the fly fishing community. We fly fish. You can feel our passion for fly fishing in everything we do. For more information, please visit https://farbank.com/pages/sage/. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube.
From Sage:
BAINBRIDGE ISLAND, Wash. (January 4th, 2023) –
For 2023, Sage introduces the next evolution in saltwater fly rod technology with the SALT R8.
Whether maximizing your limited shots for Tarpon or blocking the right moon cycle for a Permit trip—or just delivering a quick, confident cast through wind at distance—saltwater is a game where patience and urgency are equally critical to maximizing opportunity. Whether on idyllic flats, coastal beaches, or backcountry mangroves, you need faith—in your cast, your reaction time, and your choice of rod.
For Sage, having Revolution 8 Technology in hand meant now was the time to shape a dramatic advancement in saltwater rods that spoke to these truths right from the heart and birthplace of the discipline. Welcome to the SALT R8 — More Fight, More Touch.
To really understand what was happening in the heart and soul of saltwater fly fishing, Sage sent their senior rod designers to the birthplace of the discipline in South Florida. During their lengthy saltwater immersion, they listened carefully to the shops, guides, scientists, stories, and legends to truly understand what was happening on the water and what was really required to shape and hone a more perfect tool for saltwater sight fishing. Steeped in those cumulative decades of tradition, insight and knowledge, Sage’s design team then harnessed the power of Revolution 8 Technology and their precise knowledge of performance rod taper to create what naturally evolved into the fight and touch of the SALT R8 collection.
Most salt rods are built for pure power and ultimate strength—that is table stakes for the venue and the discipline. With Sage’s new R8 graphite, adding 25% more strength-per-weight was the easy part—a simple function of material advancement—but one that also increased the fight in the rod even down to the six-weight. Sage increased the pure pulling power without the need to add more material, fillers, or reinforcement. The outcome is simple, providing the ability for faster landing times and reducing fish stress and catch-and-release pressure on ever so delicate ecosystems.
As Sage Rod Designer Peter Knox describes, “The new R8 Technology brings a level of strength to the product that we couldn’t have achieved otherwise. And so if you look at the SALT R8, versus R8 CORE, you’re going to find you’ve got twenty to thirty percent greater strength.”
More strength and fight were an obvious upgrade, yet few salt rods, especially in the heavier weights, achieve the importance of feel for fine touch shots and precise presentations. Shaping a taper that brought this increased touch into the equation took more time. Yet after a long residence in the birthplace of saltwater fly fishing, and working directly with the experienced guides there, Sage’s rod designers found the right profile and fiber alignment that delivered strength, fine touch presentation, and a more
intuitive sweet spot to a class of rods that have long had a reputation as unwieldy, unforgiving, and difficult. With the SALT R8, gone are the days of sacrificing the feel and touch in your saltwater rod.
As Sage Rod Designer Peter Knox describes, “These rods have been designed a little bit easier to load, and so they’re a little bit quicker out of the hand. Having that touch to just flip a little cast in there, land the fly with enough time to sink, ’cause that fish isn’t very happy – that can spell out the difference between success and failure on any given day.”
SALT R8 Highlights
Saltwater Specific 25% Greater Strength Per Rod – Greater Pulling power equals more fight for faster landing and less stress on delicate ecosystems.
Enhanced Durability – Enhanced toughness withstands more rugged situations and demands of remote travel.
More Intuitive Sweet Spot – Prioritizes touch and speed for shorter shots and on-demand casts.
Saltwater Specific Guide Set – Fuji Titanium K-guides resist corrosion, while angled shape prevents snags and tangling in the chaos of the fight. Oversized chrome snake guides and tip-top allow larger saltwater knots to pass with ease.
Heavy-Duty Reel Seat – Built for enhanced contact and confidence, heavy-duty reel seat and oversized locking rings keep reel tight to the rod for greater contact, rigidity, and a more direct connection when fighting powerful high-stakes fish.
As Sage Rod Designer Peter Knox summarizes, “The SALT R8 is our next generation answer to saltwater fly fishing. It’s a formulation of our new R8 Technology that helps us create a super durable and high performance fishing tool that’s been wrapped up with the best guide set you can find.”
Available in a number of saltwater-application models from 6 through 15 weight, there is sure to be a go-to tool to fit every angler’s salty pursuits. For more information on Revolution 8 technology and SALT R8, visit https://farbank.com/collections/sage-salt-r8-saltwater
Features
- Revolution 8 Technology
- Tempest Blue blank color
- Slate primary thread wraps
with graduated White and Grey trim - Premium Flor Grade Cork Handle w/EVA Butt
- Black rod bag with new cord lock
for quicker, easier, and cleaner storage - Aluminum rod tube with Sage medallion
MSRP : $1100
MODELS // 690-4 / 790-4 / 890-4 / 990-4 / 1090-4 / 1190-4 / 1290-4 / 1290-4FG / 1586-4
About Sage: Founded in 1980, Sage was created with one idea in mind—to build the world’s finest performance fly rods. From the start, Sage has maintained that singular focus on delivering the finest performance fly fishing rods, reels, and equipment to the avid angler. We are a company of passionate anglers and craftsmen, continually seeking performance advantages through new materials, designs, and engagement with the fly fishing community. We fly fish. You can feel our passion for fly fishing in everything we do. For more information, please visit https://farbank.com/pages/sage/. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube.
From the Utah Stream Access Coalition:
Salt Lake City, Utah – On Monday, January 9, 2023, the Utah Stream Access Coalition (USAC or “the Coalition”) will return to the Utah Supreme Court for the third time in six years in its quest to vindicate Utahns’ rights to recreate on public waters where they flow through private lands. This time, the Court will hear oral arguments on whether the Fourth District Court got it wrong when it summarily dismissed USAC v. VR Acquisitions, LLC (Victory Ranch) in response to pre-trial motions filed by Victory Ranch and the State of Utah.
The case was before the Fourth District Court on the question of whether the public had a right to use privately owned streambeds for recreational purposes when Utah adopted its Constitution in 1895. Earlier, the Supreme Court ruled that the existence of such a right at statehood is a prerequisite to the Coalition’s claims today. Fourth District Court Judge Derek Pullan concluded that while “[t]he Coalition has come forward with substantial evidence that in the last half of the 19th century, Utahns widely and freely touched and used both public and private beds of Utah’s lakes, rivers and streams for a variety of purposes, including recreation …. the Coalition has failed to prove that this historical use gave rise to a public easement dictated by our law in the late 19th Century.”
The Coalition disagrees with this assessment and is asking the Utah Supreme Court to reverse Judge Pullan’s ruling and to send the matter back to the Fourth District Court so that a trial can be held to fully consider the Coalition’s “substantial evidence” of the existence of public easement rights at statehood. In 2008, the Utah Supreme Court itself recognized that these public easement rights existed under modern-day Utah law, but two years later the Utah Legislature passed the ironically named Public Waters Access Act of 2010 purporting to eliminate these rights, effectively taking away public access to approximately 2,700 miles of Utah’s rivers and streams that flow over privately owned beds, or about 42% of Utah’s fishable waters, and setting the stage for the present case in which the Coalition challenges the constitutionality of the Public Waters Access Act.
In an earlier case, the Coalition convinced Utah’s Third District Court that the uppermost 40 miles of the Weber River met the test of navigability based on evidence that the River was used for commercial purposes prior to Utah becoming a state. That ruling, affirmed by the Utah Supreme in 2017, means that the public has a right to use the beds and banks of the upper Weber River – and other navigable rivers in Utah – for lawful recreational purposes, in perpetuity.
The Coalition is committed to the principle that the waters flowing in all of Utah’s rivers and streams are owned by the public, and therefore the public should have the right to make use of such waters for lawful recreational purposes, regardless of whether they are navigable or who holds title to the lands beneath them. Through the present litigation – now in its twelfth year running – the Coalition intends to establish that these public rights are rooted in the Utah Constitution and cannot be abrogated by the Legislature’s Public Waters Access Act.
John Perry of Angler’s Alibi in Alaska has been fishing and guiding in Alaska for decades. In an episode of The Venturing Angler Podcast, he discusses a fly fishing life in the Last Frontier.
To learn more about Angler’s Alibi in Alaska, please click here.
The Venturing Angler Podcast: Fly Fishing and Guiding in Alaska with John Perry
More than 10 years ago, a team of anglers explored the flats of Mexico on a trip that would ultimately be documented in a film from Off the Grid Studios. SCORPION EXPEDITION is now available online.
From Off the Grid Studios:
“The Scorpion Trilogy started in 2012 when a fly fishing expedition to Scorpion Reef in the Gulf of Mexico was documented. This documentary-style film journey brought together fly anglers from the United States and Mexico to explore one of the most remote atolls in the Gulf.
Produced by:
http://beattieproductions.com/
http://offthegridstudios.com/“
To see more from Off the Grid Studios, please click here.
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Disclosure: Off the Grid Studios is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
The team from Trouts head to Montana for some great fall fly fishing!
From Trouts:
“Earlier this year, Tanner and Ivan snuck away to Montana for a couple of days exploring with a friend of the shop Zeb Foster. The boys spent three days galavanting across Southwest Montana trying to find streamer-eating and dry fly-sipping trout. They covered more than their fair share of river miles over the course of their trip but were paid off handsomely with some quality fall fish.”
To check out more from Trouts, please click here.
From Simms:
Bozeman, Mont. (January 5, 2023) – Simms Fishing Products, preeminent manufacturer of waders, outerwear, footwear, and technical apparel in fishing wrap up a record-setting 2022 and embark on the new year with an all-new, bar-raising product collection designed to inspire the world to fish.
In addition to the new Spring 2023 line, in February of this year, anglers will also have access to the all-new, limited edition Simms Watershed Stockingfoot Wader. Through Watershed sales and in association with Montana Freshwater Partners, a $50,000 contribution will be made to the Yellowstone Stewardship Campaign, a campaign developed to engage the community, out-of-state visitors, and business to give back to projects that support the overall health and vitality of one of southwest Montana’s most beloved outdoor resources, the Yellowstone River.
“Looking back at the past year, Simms has a lot to be proud of. It was the most successful year in the company’s history and these achievements are the direct result of a highly committed and talented team,” says Simms Chief Operating Officer, Ben Christensen. The success of 2022 is just a preview of what’s coming in 2023 and beyond.”
Spring 2023 reaffirms the longstanding reputation of delivering angler-driven, technical fishing gear that Simms has cultivated over the past 30 years. True to form, Spring 2023 encompasses fishing focused innovations and advancements across all categories and boasts standouts in each.
In March of this year, Simms will launch an all-new iteration of their Freestone® collection of waders. Available in Men’s, Women’s and a Pant, the revamped Freestone Waders are constructed from a durable, waterproof/breathable 4-layer Toray® Quadralam fabric. Featuring a fleece-lined, reach-through chest pocket, zippered stretch-woven stash pocket, and a built-in Tippet Tender pocket, all Freestone waders provide ample on-body storage for small essentials. Also equipped with Simms’ patented front and back leg seams, stretch elastic suspenders with opposing buckles that allow for a waist-high conversion on hot days, and built-in neoprene gravel guards, anglers can reap the rewards of comfort and a completely unhindered range of motion.
Built from Simms’ award-winning wader DNA, Spring 2023 also brings with it, the all-new Tributary collection of waders. Available in Men’s, Women’s, and Kid’s, all Tributary waders are constructed from a lightweight, waterproof/breathable nylon fabric and include fishy features such as a built-in Tippet Tender pocket, a fleece-lined chest pocket, built-in gravel guards, a zippered top stash pocket, and anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet.
Leading the pack in terms of innovation is the all-new, award-winning G4 Pro® Powerlock Boot. Available with a Vibram® Idrogrip rubber outsole or a 12mm felt outsole, the G4 Pro Powerlock Boot takes wading footwear performance and durability to the next level. Built with durable synthetic leather, scratch leather, and highly abrasion- resistant mesh, the boot comes equipped with a partial neoprene lining for comfort and easy on/off and laser-cut fabric eye stays for a secure fit. For comfort and in-stream support, a molded TPU heel counter and a dual-density EVA midsole have been included. On both the Vibram and felt models, an innovative powerlock system allows for quick and customizable cleat installment and removal with unmatched cleat retention. All G4 Pro Powerlock Boots come with 14 TPR cleats for use in boats, 14 aluminum cleats for wade fishing applications, and the Simms Ripper Tool for installment and removal.
Simms footwear category expands further with the arrival of the all-new Flyweight Access Wet Wading Shoe. Featuring a high-top construction, the Flyweight Access Wet Wading Shoe comes equipped with an adjustable ankle gasket to keep debris out, integrated drainage holes, and a quick-adjust lacing system with a built-in lace garage to prevent line snags. Powered by the award-winning Vibram Idrogrip Flex rubber outsole, anglers can now enjoy the same slip-resistance as the Flyweight Access Boot in a comfortable wet-wading platform.
Season after season, Simms’ sportswear category continues to grow and Spring 2023 is no exception. In order to bolster an already expansive collection of UPF 50 sun protective clothing, Simms has added a multitude of new SolarFlex® options built from the highest performing solar protective knit fabric that feels smooth to the touch, stretches for comfort, dries fast, and keeps anglers odor and stain free with the inclusion of HeiQ Fresh and HeiQ Stain Away technology. New styles include but aren’t limited to the Men’s SolarFlex Guide Hoody, Men’s and Women’s SolarFlex Hoody and Crew, and the Men’s and Women’s Bugstopper SolarFlex Hoody.
In addition to the expansion of the SolarFlex collection, Simms is also proud to launch the all-new Simms Challenger Solar collection, available in numerous Men’s and Women’s styles. Offering UPF 30+ sun protection, Simms Challenger Solar collection is built from lightweight Jersey knit fabric that’s smooth, stretchy, and wicks moisture to keep anglers comfortable on the hottest days on the water.
Other newcomers to Simms’ sportswear collection include the Intruder® Hoody that’s available in Men’s and Women’s, the Bugstopper Intruder Hoody, the Intruder Bicomp LS Shirt, the Women’s Bugstopper Jogger, and the Women’s Bugstopper Legging.
For rainy days, open water crossings, and choppy conditions, Simms has reimagined their ever popular Men’s and Women’s Challenger Jacket and Bib. Built from waterproof/breathable 2-layer, recycled Toray® fabric, the all-new Challenger Suit features oversized chest pockets with built-in sunglass chamois, adjustable watertight cuffs, a 3-point adjustable/stashable storm hood, and reflective logos for safety. Additional features include kill-switch D-ring attachments, an adjustable bottom hem and reinforced overlays in high wear zones on the bib for increased durability.
Another new addition to Simms outerwear collection is the all-new Splash Cast Jacket. Whether casting in heavy surf, taking waves over the jetty, or kayaking toward fishy coordinates, the Splash Cast Jacket keeps anglers dry and comfortable regardless of the weather and/or conditions. Constructed from a rugged 3-layer waterproof/breathable Toray fabric, the Splash Cast Jacket features an internal adjustable neoprene neck cuff, wrist cuffs, and bottom hem to keep water out. Additional features include a fully submersible dump pocket and roll away storm hood.
The Spring 2023 collection wouldn’t be complete without a couple of new standouts in the equipment category. Constructed from 420D double ripstop Nylon for long-term durability and water resistance, the all-new Dry Creek Boat Bag is built for long days on the water that call for extra capacity. Featuring a magnetized catch-and-release buckle that keeps an overhanging compression molded lid securely closed even when unzipped, the Dry Creek Boat Bag also offers customizable internal dividers and under-lid zippered stash pockets for optimal organization.
For waders and boots, anglers can deploy the all-new Riverkit Wader Tote for easy and convenient carry to and from their next destination. Built from a heavy-duty 600D Polyester fabric with a backside PU coating, the Riverkit Wader Tote is durable and highly water resistant. Breathable mesh panels flank the side for ventilation and a padded lid unfolds and doubles as changing mat.
About Simms Fishing Products: Established in 1980, Simms is the preeminent manufacturer of waders, outerwear and technical fishing apparel and accessories. The full line of Simms gear is available at specialty and large format retailers across North America as well as www.simmsfishing.com.
RA Beattie is an accomplished filmmaker who’s work has entertained and inspired anglers for many years. In an episode of The Venturing Angler Podcast, RA discusses his career and new film projects.
To see more from Off the Grid Studios, please click here.
And to check out the podcast, please click below or download our podcast on iTunes, Soundcloud, or Spotify:
Looking to plan you next trip? For traveling anglers, the annual travel magazine from Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures is always something to look forward to. Now Volume 23 is live online (and hitting mailboxes soon).
To check out the new Worldwide Angling & Travel Guide from Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures, please click here.
Fly fishing for northern pike in Saskatchewan! The film TURNING POINTS NORTH from Off the Grid Studios is now available to watch online.
From Off the Grid Studios:
“Consider the popularity and variety of the technically-challenging and somewhat ‘elite’ gamefish available to today’s angler — permit, steelhead, and a growing number of impossibly-difficult species. These ‘glamour fish’ can overshadow traditional and more common warm water species. With this in mind, our production team initially questioned if a film about Northern Pike could stand its ground in today’s media space. Understanding that familiarity often breeds contempt, we came to the conclusion that Northern Pike are probably not going to blow viewers away unless we traveled to the best location in the world and caught the largest, most aggressive fish on the planet. Which is exactly what we did. To give this project legs, we found: the finest location for fishing and scenery, the best pike fishing, an all-star crew and one helluva story. It took a bit of doing, but we’ve got the location, talent, team and enough tricks up our sleeves to pull it off.
We partnered with Adventure Destination – the premier outfitter and collective of lodges in Northern Saskatchewan. The film was shot in late June, when pike are spawning and very active. Teaming up with bush pilot Ron Striker and renowned angler and artist Jeff Currier, we targeted the biggest, baddest pike on the planet in remote, subarctic waters. Anglers typically catch between 20 and 40 fish per day, with fish weights ranging between 20 to 35 pounds. Trophy lengths of 47 inches and more are typical here.
Fishing with Jeff and Ron, a sense of humility and humbleness was apparent in both.
While these men were raised in completely different places and followed completely different paths to ‘live the dream’, they hold in common a history of taking a leap to shape their lives. Ron stacked shelves in a grocery store for 17 years before becoming a bush pilot. Jeff started in a fly shop, working for $4.75 an hour. Since that time, he’s shaped himself into one of the foremost angling authorities, fishing in more than 50 countries and landing more than 300 species on the fly in salt and freshwater. Both men describe how they went from the bottom run to doing exactly what they wanted to do in life. Viewers will relate to both stories and the chances taken by seekers to make life happen. Woven with these human stories is some of the baddest, most-predatory pike fishing footage ever captured.
This film premiered in the 2016 Fly Fishing Film Tour & Canadian Fly Fishing Film Tour.”
To see more from Off the Grid Studios, please click here.
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Disclosure: Off the Grid Studios is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
Anglers head to Wyoming to fly fish for carp in a video from Chasing Scale.
From Chasing Scale:
“Carping on the Flaming Gorge Reservoir in Wyoming is super challenging and, with a little patience and determination, very rewarding! Kayak fishing and SUP fishing were the methods of exploration on this particular trip. We even hooked and landed one beast from the Heron iSUP! There’s nothing quite like being dragged around by a massive carp like a Nantucket sleigh ride! And we didn’t just target carp. The reservoir is home to a myriad of other species including rainbow, cutthroat and brown trout, smallmouth bass, burbot, catfish and kokanee salmon. And if the weather is cooperative, this place is an absolute paradise for the angler in search of remote and pristine fishing pursuits.
Location: Waters north of the Flaming Gorge National Recreational Area”
To check out more from Chasing Scale, please click here.
Michael Caranci returns to The Venturing Angler Podcast to talk fly fishing in Mongolia and the rich experiences this country has to offer anglers and visitors.
Click here to learn more about Fish Mongolia and click here to learn more about Mongolia River Outfitters.
And to check out the podcast, please click below or download our podcast on iTunes, Soundcloud, YouTube, or Spotify:
Guide Relief Program recently announced that through December 31, 2022, Orvis would be matching contributions up to $10,000. (Learn more here.) Now the Boat Company is contributing as well, thus tripling donations. This is a great time to support an important cause.
To learn more from an article from Hatch Magazine, please click here.
And to make a donation, please click here.
There’s nothing like a good caddis hatch, and in Caddis Magic, filmmakers, Gilbert Rowley and Phil Tuttle focus on the great fishing that can come during these hatches.
From Gilbert Rowley:
“International Fly Fishing Film Festival (IF4) Winning Feature Film 2022!!!
Every fly fishing outing is filled with bits and pieces of a mystery. You never know what you’ll catch, if the bugs will hatch, if the fish will react to the hatch the way you hope, and so on. These ‘unknowns’ keep us dreaming of something incredibly special that exists only when all of these factors mesh together. And when they do, true magic happens. That’s what this story is about, a day of Caddis Magic.
From the IF4
‘Congratulations to Capture Adventure Media, the talented work of Gilbert Rowley and crew, for winning top honors at this past year’s International Fly Fishing Film Festival! Audiences around the world voted for their top pick and nudged Caddis Magic into the top honors spot.’
Huge shout out to Phil Tuttle who was the primary camera operator and editor for this film His talents are second to none!”
To check out more from the Capture Crew, please click here.
Fly fishing for queenfish in Dubai! For many of us, the 2018 film DUBAI ON THE FLY was our introduction to an exciting species — queenfish. This full film is now available to watch online.
From Off the Grid Studios:
“The tallest skyscrapers, the fastest cars, the fanciest restaurants and the most exclusive resorts and clubs. When westerners think of Dubai, fishing is about the last thing we imagine, if we think of it at all. But at the heart of this fast, modern city lies a shockingly intact traditional fishing culture alongside a blooming fly angling industry. Acting as the Anthony Bourdain of this culture-and-recreation oriented film is Colorado-based angler and film veteran Frank Smethurst. Joining with Captain Nick Bowles and Emirati angler Mohammed Al Faour, Frank unveils familiar and unexpected sides of this iconic city, in the desert and on the water.
This film originally premiered at the 2018 Fly Fishing Film Tour.”
To see more from Off the Grid Studios, please click here.
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Disclosure: Off the Grid Studios is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
Fly fishing for giant smallmouth bass in Ontario! A new one from the folks at the New Fly Fisher …
From the New Fly Fisher:
“In this special full-length video, we join Alyx Parks as she learns how to hunt for BIG smallmouth bass right after ice out in Algoma Country. Joining her is professional guide Adam Vallee and host Colin McKeown. Alyx even does some brook trout fishing too!”
To check out more from the New Fly Fisher, please click here.
John Perry of Angler’s Alibi in Alaska has been fishing and guiding in Alaska for decades. In an episode of The Venturing Angler Podcast, he discusses a fly fishing life in the Last Frontier.
To learn more about Angler’s Alibi in Alaska, please click here.
And to check out the podcast, please click below or download our podcast on iTunes, Soundcloud, or Spotify:
Fly fishing for dorado in the Bolivian Amazon is the focus of the film JUNGLE ANGLER. This Off the Grid Studios film originally premiered at the Fly Fishing Film Tour several years ago. The full film is now available to watch in full online.
From Off the Grid Studios:
“This iconic fishing movie was shot deep in the Bolivian jungle and premiered worldwide at the Fly Fishing Film Tour.
Deep in the Amazon jungle lies a formidable predator, known mostly to the native peoples of the South American forests. These native people harmonize with mutual respect for their natural environments. Fishing in the jungles with them has uncovered the golden dorado. And with every step deeper into the heart of the jungle, new doors opens which could lead to a new way of fly fishing.”
To see more from Off the Grid Studios, please click here.
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Disclosure: Off the Grid Studios is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
Anglers take on bass and protecting them in Appalachia in A Slam That Saves — a new film coming to the International Fly Fishing Film Festival.
From the International Fly Fishing Film Festival:
“Deep in the foothills of the Appalachians, there are four species of bass found nowhere else on Earth. The Coosa, Cahaba, Warrior, and Tallapoosa bass are all genetically-distinct, environmentally-imperiled bass in dire need of help. And thankfully, a community has rallied around them with a unique idea. Instead of gating off the species, why not champion them? Why not create a new grand slam in fly fishing for the sake of a national treasure? Join Matt Lewis and Mary Beth Meeks as they attempt to catch a “Redeye Slam” in one day. Only at IF4 in 2023!”
To check out more from the International Fly Fishing Film Festival, please click here.
In Father Nature, a new film coming to the IF4, filmmakers take a look at a family of guides on the Snake River.
From the International Fly Fishing Film Festival:
“The Turner family has guided the Snake River in Grand Teton National Park for over a 100
years. Like all of us who go to the river and mountains with fly rod in hand, it’s hard to
come back the same person. Wild places forever change us – imbedding a deep
and spiritual reverence for things greater than ourselves. This western idea was the underpinnings to one of America’s best inventions – the National Park System. This is their story – a family’s blessing to work, live, and share one of the most beautiful river corridors anywhere in the world. A gift that has instilled an even greater passion to protect things “wild” for many generations to come. Only at IF4 in 2023!”
To check out more from the International Fly Fishing Film Festival, please click here.
Fly fishing for big tiger trout on damselfies in Crouching Tiger Hidden Damsel — a new film coming to the IF4.
From the International Fly Fishing Film Festival:
“No two fish eat a fly the same way, and no hatch is the same one day after the next. Take for example one of the most predictable hatches each year, the damselfly hatch. For years Gilbert Rowley and Nic Heslop had brushed off the fabled rumors of a high mountain lake home to oversized tiger trout and a prolific damsel hatch. Decades of fishing this hatch on dozens of other lakes had them believing they had experienced all this hatch has to offer. However, as is often the case in fly fishing, it turns out they were wrong, way wrong. But this time their incorrect assumptions didn’t bother them. Because you never know when a good hatch will turn to great, or even epic. Only at IF4 in 2023!”
To check out more from the International Fly Fishing Film Festival, please click here.
A new issue of Catch Magazine is now available online. In the latest issue of this digital magazine, anglers take on Providence Atoll, New Zealand, Iceland, Austria, and more. Outstanding destination content.
To check out the new issue of Catch Magazine, please click here.
Fly fishing for giant Arctic char in Canada! A release of an Off the Grid Studios film classic now allows viewers to enjoy this full film online.
From Off the Grid Studios:
“The crunch of ice. The whistle of the Arctic wind. The chill bite of frozen noses and fingers. Filmed in Canada’s Northwest Territories, The Arctic takes a look at the remote Tree River. Lying 66 degrees north of the Equator, this is the real north – the hard north. The Tree River is a vast, harsh river tinted with the silty, green tint of glacial melt. It is also home to hordes of Arctic char.”
To see more from Off the Grid Studios, please click here.
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Disclosure: Off the Grid Studios is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
WASHINGTON – Early this morning congressional leadership released a $1.7 trillion bipartisan omnibus spending bill for fiscal year 2023 that includes some increases for public lands management agencies, as well as funding for Interior Department programs that conserve fish and wildlife habitat. The bill also authorizes funding to address the threat of chronic wasting disease.
Included in funding for the Interior Department is a 7.5% increase for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, including an increase of $23 million for the National Wildlife Refuge System over last year, as well as an increase of nearly 6% for the Bureau of Land Management. The North American Wetlands Conservation Act would receive $50 million, and $81 million is allocated for sage grouse habitat conservation. An additional provision would close loopholes for conservation easement tax incentives, protecting the integrity of easements that help consolidate inholdings and leverage Land and Water Conservation Fund projects, securing public access to landlocked public lands.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is encouraged by the bill’s release and commended decision-makers in Congress for their commitment to including strong conservation measures and addressing hunter and angler priority issues.
“The holiday season just got much brighter,” said Land Tawney, BHA president and CEO. “We are excited that our congressional champs found a way to include important provisions to our community and get them over the finish line. Their recognition of the vital roles public land, water and wildlife play in our every day lives is much appreciated. Their investment in science and overall management is applauded.”
The Chronic Wasting Disease Research and Management Act (H.R. 5608) is a notable inclusion in the sprawling legislation. BHA and its partner organizations have consistently advocated for the bill, which would coordinate efforts between the Agriculture Department and both state and tribal wildlife agencies and departments of agriculture, authorizing $70 million in funding annually through fiscal year 2028. Passed by the House on Dec. 8, 2021, the CWD bill had recently received approval from every member of the Senate except Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY).
“We are gratified to be able to work with our partners in the hunting community and with congressional champions to secure this win before the end of the 117th Congress,” Tawney said. “We thank Representatives Ron Kind and Glenn “GT” Thompson and Senators John Hoeven and Martin Heinrich for their leadership on this important legislation. And we thank hunters in Kentucky and across the country who spoke up in support of the bill – and who together were able to shift course and advance it through the omnibus. This is a win for sportsmen and women, for the science-based management of wildlife, and for public lands and waters.”
Despite overwhelming support from hunting and angling interests, however, the bipartisan Recovering America’s Wildlife Act, or RAWA, was not included in the omnibus, even after passing the House earlier this year. A broad coalition has worked tirelessly to advance the conservation funding bill, with upwards of 15,000 BHA members and supporters raising their voices in support.
“The impacts of the Recovering America’s Wildlife Act on wildlife conservation and management would be, in a word, unprecedented,” stated Tawney. “RAWA is the product of decades of hard work and dedicated collaboration by innumerable diverse stakeholders, including sportsmen and women, conservationists and business leaders. We’re disappointed to miss this opportunity to advance the bill in the 117th Congress. However, we also thank our champions, Senators Martin Heinrich and Roy Blunt and Representative Debbie Dingell, for their tireless efforts until the last moment to try and secure the inclusion of RAWA. We’re already looking toward the 118th Congress and tackling the work necessary to see RAWA passed into law.”
The Senate and the House are expected to vote on the legislation as soon as today, with final passage anticipated before the end of the week. The current continuing resolution, which has funded the government during the interim, will expire on Friday.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Watch us on YouTube.
http://www.backcountryhunters.org/
Another day, another new IF4 trailer. In Dollar Dog, a dog named Ella is profiled for her love of Atlantic salmon.
From the International Fly Fishing Film Festival:
“Just as Atlantic salmon return home to Cape Breton’s storied Margaree River year after
year, anglers from all over are drawn to its banks. With public water, this river boasts a world-class fishery that is accessible to everyone. Dollar Dog tells the story of the most unlikely of fish bums – Ella. A four-legged vagabond who’s love for Atlantic salmon rivals that of her waded counterparts. A tale of the place and the fish, from which legends are born. Only at IF4 in 2023!”
To check out more from the International Fly Fishing Film Festival, please click here.
In The Focus — a new film coming to the International Fly Fishing Film Festival — anglers head to the Utah desert to take on trout and memories of their youth.
From the International Fly Fishing Film Festival:
“The Focus follows three anglers who revisit a remote mountain stream from their youth. As they explore these deep canyons in the Utah desert, they find variations of trout that thrive in the winter runoff. This landscape provides a unique fishing experience to be remembered, but also an opportunity to reflect on bigger concepts that matter the most. Only at IF4 in 2023!”
To check out more from the International Fly Fishing Film Festival, please click here.
The Chesapeake Bay is the focus of a new film for the International Fly Fishing Film Festival, In Chesapeake — A Love Letter to a Watershed, anglers take on an epic fishing road trip — at one watershed.
From the International Fly Fishing Film Festival:
“The Braker brothers grew up in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. While they were shaped and inspired by the landscapes and environments that make up the watershed, they always wondered exactly what it was that made this place so special. After creating an award-winning short film about the Chesapeake Bay called ‘A Journey Upstream,’ Fly Fishers International reached out and challenged the brothers to take the journey further. So, they grabbed their fly rods, camera gear, and climbed into an old campervan named the ‘Green Machine.’ Their adventure was underway. Over 1,000 miles, 7 days, and 1 watershed. Only at IF4 in 2023!”
To check out more from the International Fly Fishing Film Festival, please click here.
BOZEMAN, MT (December 16, 2022) – Fishing guides are the backbone and the very face of the recreational fishing industry, a distinction earned from thousands of hours spent coaching and educating anglers from all walks of life each and every season. They are the ambassadors of the sport and the gatekeepers of our angling resources. It’s a rewarding but demanding job.
How long is a fishing guide’s day? Surely, it’s much longer than the hours spent on the water with their clients. The nonstop communication and logistical efforts with customers, gear wrangling, gassing up, meal prep, drive time, and end-of-day gear maintenance stack up to make a guide day anything but a 9-5’er, and many seasonal guides go hard for dozens – sometimes hundreds – of days in a row. Days off are precious, unpaid, and often full of provisioning, boat and equipment maintenance, bill paying, personal relationship mending, and everything else a small business owner riding razor-thin margins must deal with. While most guides enjoy what they do for a living, the demands are stressful and often overwhelming.
As a group, professional fishing guides are prone to a variety of social and economic stressors and mental health issues. Established in 2020 by Mollie Simpkins and KynsLee Scott, the Guide Relief Program (GRP) acknowledges this fact. Its simple mission is to lend meaningful support to these angling ambassadors and resource protectors on and off the water.
“Our goal is simple, but our task is challenging,” says Simpkins. “The GRP exists to take care of the people who take care of the resources every angler enjoys. We do this in a variety of ways. We were born out of COVID-19, helping fishing guides navigate and access the complicated and rapidly changing forms of assistance available to them. We’ve since expanded our role to offer small but meaningful grants to fishing guides dealing with all manner of personal and professional crises. These hardships can be related to things like last summer’s historic flooding in Montana or the devastation unleashed by storms like Hurricane Ian, but we don’t limit our assistance to guides impacted by natural disasters alone. Life comes at fishing guides fast and hard, which is why facilitating access to no-cost mental health services also lies at the core of our mission.”
Through a partnership with BetterHelp, the GRP offers approved guides two months of access to comprehensive mental health services at no cost. The 100% confidential program is available to anyone who can prove they are a guide. Once approved, guides are matched with a licensed, board-certified therapist according to specific needs and preferences.
Because program demand is so high, the GRP is seeking tax-deductible donations that will help expand the number of guides that can be served.
Give Now and Orvis will Match Your Donation
Grants awarded to guides have averaged $2,100 in 2022 and we are finding that more than ever, the guide community is in need of the support that the Guide Relief Program has to offer. The cost to provide two free months of mental health benefits for each guide is $260. Help us help more guides.
Now through the end of the year, whatever you can afford to donate will go even farther – twice as far, in fact – due to the generosity and stewardship of Orvis. The company will match all donations received by the GRP through December 31, 2022, dollar for dollar, up to a maximum contribution of $10,000. These matching funds compound the impact of your donation while making whatever you can afford to give more meaningful and important than ever.
Learn more about the Guide Relief Program, hear stories of those we’ve helped, and see how you fit in at guidereliefprogram.org. Join the conversation and track our progress together on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
About the Guide Relief Program
The Guide Relief Program was created during the global COVID-19 crisis to support Montana’s fishing guides, fly and conventional, by providing critical information and resources regarding unemployment, grants and loans, and financial relief. In doing so, we realized there was no social safety net in place for guides. With the future in mind, the Guide Relief Program will continue working to ensure a better future for fishing guides throughout the nation, by supporting them on and off the water. The Guide Relief Program is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit.
Media Contact
Guide Relief Program and Outdoor Guides Association
Mollie Simpkins, Co-Founder & Executive Director
mollie@guidereliefprogram.org
Dorado in the Bolivian Amazon are the focus of Gold Fever — a new fly fishing film headed to the IF4.
From the International Fly Fishing Film Festival:
“In 2022, an epic adventure from Black Fly Eyes to explore undiscovered water in the middle of the Amazon jungle. In the ‘Serranía Moseten’ region of Bolivia there are numerous tributaries that have never seen a fly. These waters are pure and this fly-fishing film documents an exploratory adventure to fish for the powerful golden dorado. Only at IF4 in 2023!”
To check out more from the International Fly Fishing Film Festival, please click here.
For saltwater fly fishing enthusiasts, the new issue of Tail Fly Fishing Magazine has a great deal of excellent content. Destination features include the Galápagos Islands and the Yucatán Peninsula, and much more additional salty content pack the pages of this magazine.
To check out the new issue of Tail, please click here.
Jack crevalle have it all. They are big, they fight hard, and they are a thrill to target with a fly rod. In JACKS, a new film coming to the International Fly Fishing Film Festival, Jako Lucas and fellow anglers take on this exciting fish.
From Capt Jack Productions:
“A Film by Jako Lucas & RA Beattie
Written by RA Beattie
Produced by Jako Lucas, RA Beattie, Tim Harden
Sponsored by YETI Coolers & The Orvis Company
Graphics by Marko Milosevic
Audio by Troy Hermes/Hermes Sound
Color By Diego Pena
Over the last 20 years, a steady stream of adventurous anglers has been traveling to some of the most remote places on the planet in search of big predatory fish called giant trevally or GTs. Decades of advancements in gear and collective knowledge have made it possible for anglers to take on these aggressive fish, catapulting them into the media limelight, and now they’re taking the angling world by storm. But, what if you didn’t have to travel to the most remote locations in the world to chase fish like this? What if we told you a similar species haunts many saltwater destinations around North America? In this short film, we take you on a comparative deep-dive into a truly remarkable species just as noteworthy. Welcome to the world of JACKS.
Special Thanks to
Talweg Media
Ryan Heffanan
RA Beattie
Paul Bourcq
Bradley Hyman
BlackFlyEyes
Helmut Zadarer
David Mangum
Cody Rubner
Ben Satterlee
Carter Andrews
Carter Blackwell
Matt Scholz
Marissa Wil”
To check out more from Capt Jack Productions, please click here.
The American Museum of Fly Fishing recently honored the 30th anniversary of A River Runs Through It with the 2022 Heritage Award. They’ve also released a great video with behind the scenes footage, interviews, and more.
To check out more from the American Museum of Fly Fishing, please click here.
A great video from Nat Geo WILD profiles “underwater killers.” Barracuda, hammerheads, and more profiled in this one.
From Nat Geo WILD:
“Nat Geo WILD gets up close with underwater killers lurking in our oceans. At first glance these underwater assassins may appear to be exotic beauties, but for those who allow curiosity to get the best of them, this risky pursuit may result in a brush with death. Meet the sharp-toothed barracudas and piranhas that slice through their targets with ease and scavenge on the remaining carcasses. Feast your eyes on the predators that have mastered the ways of their underwater Atlantis.”
To check out more from Nat Geo WILD, please click here.
The Klamath River in California and Oregon is among the best of the best when it comes to salmon and steelhead. A new video from The Fly Shop breaks down the river.
From The Fly Shop:
The Klamath River in Northern California is a world-renowned fly fishing destination. This West Coast river has salmon and steelhead, and in recent years, the steelhead fishing has seen a resurgence. In this video, the team from The Fly Shop show just what the Klamath has to offer while taking on a mid-November fall float trip.
Learn more about fly fishing the Klamath River: https://www.theflyshop.com/adventures… Video from Dominic Bruno.
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Disclosure: The Fly Shop is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
Photo from Joel Reyero @naturalflashFrom Patagonia:
TIERRA DEL FUEGO, ARGENTINA (Dec. 6, 2022) – At the Southernmost tip of Argentina, the community of Tierra del Fuego has protected the entirety of Peninsula Mitre – over 1.2 million acres overall are being protected – including 700,000 acres of land and 500,000 acres of ocean – forever. Peninsula Mitre is a massive carbon sink, home to a myriad of threatened species and includes some of the region’s most significant natural and cultural heritage sites. Protecting this area permanently is a historic victory for the planet and local communities.
In a special legislative session, the local legislature in Tierra del Fuego unanimously approved to designate the Mitre Peninsula, Argentina’s largest carbon reservoir, as a provincial protected natural area. This final vote to protect this area is the result of local community support and 33 years of collaboration from all sectors of society including government leaders and contributions from Patagonia, Tompkins Conservation, Rewilding Argentina, scientists and academia.
“There is only 10% of the planet left to protect, while we are now facing challenges like the loss of blodiversity, climate change, and increasing pollution. That’s why this legislation is the best way to protect the ecosystem and biodiversity of the Mitre Peninsula, which is one of the biggest natural lungs in both the country and the world,” said Nahuel Stauch, a local activist.
Yvon Chouinard, founder of outdoor apparel brand Patagonia and a stalwart advocate for the region, recounted his first experience there, “In 1977, my friend Paul Bruun and I backpacked along the coast of Peninsula Mitre looking for streams to fish and adventure. We found old shipwrecks, kelp forests, peat bogs, and sea trout in one of the wildest places left on the planet. I’m proud to have been a small part of creating this park at the end of the world.”
Patagonia and its founder, Yvon Chouinard, contributed $605,000 USD through its 1% for the Planet grassroots giving program to protect this rich carbon and biodiversity ecosystem. The Holdfast Collective, a new nonprofit supported by Patagonia, is also committing $200,000 USD. The company also helped to convene and support local activists who share an interest in seeing this area protected.
Peninsula Mitre is located at the eastern end of Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. Due to its huge expanse of peat, the peninsula is the largest area of carbon capture in the country and the presence of well-preserved underwater forests increases the importance and biodiversity of this amazing ecosystem. Various species inhabit, migrate to, and find food in its terrestrial and marine areas, including: the endangered southern river otter, the humpback whale, the Fuegian steamer duck. Also, the area is home to some of the region’s most significant natural and cultural heritage, such as traces of the Haush (a hunter-gatherer people), the remains of shipwrecks, and a plethora of flora and fauna.
It will require all sectors of society working together to protect our planet, and this historic accomplishment in Argentina represents a model to protect intact ecosystems and the biodiversity within them that can be scaled globally. “This is exactly what the protection of key habitats should look like, taking into account not only land but also the coastal waters. This park is a new highwater mark for global conservation and the fight against climate change.” said Kristine Tompkins, President of Tompkins Conservation.
About Patagonia
We’re in business to save our home planet. Founded by Yvon Chouinard in 1973, Patagonia Works (“Patagonia”) is a certified B Corporation based in Ventura, California. A founding member of 1% for the Planet, the company is recognized internationally for its product quality and environmental activism. Its unique ownership structure reflects that Earth is its only shareholder: Profits not reinvested back into the business are paid as dividends to protect the planet.
About Tompkins Conservation
A driving force to curb the worldwide climate emergency and the biodiversity crisis, Tompkins Conservation has spent three decades working to rewild a healthy planet with big, wild, and connected landscapes where human communities, animals and plants can thrive. Collaborating with public and private partners, the organization has driven the creation and expansion of 15 national parks. In Argentina, Tompkins Conservation provides support to its offspring organization, Rewilding Argentina.
If you’re looking for outstanding photos and stories from some of the world’s top fly fishing destinations, you’ll likely love the new issue of In the Loop magazine. The online magazine out of Europe is packed with content from Alaska, Montana, Chile, Argentina, and more. A home run issue from this crew.
To check out the new issue of In the Loop, please click here.
If you’ve spent time fishing the coastal U.S., you’ve seen a degradation of ecosystems and fisheries. Of course, some areas have seen improvement that is generally the result of conservation efforts and regulations.
With waters warming, reefs dying, and oceans increasing absorbing toxins, it is more important than ever that anglers add being their voices to the table when policy is being reviewed. NOAA is currently updating the National Saltwater Recreational Fisheries Policy and seeking the input of the angling community. This is an important time to bring issues to their awareness and have our voices heard on policy that could make or break critical ecosystems.
To submit comments and have your voice heard, please click here.
From ECHO:
VANCOUVER, Wash., December 6 – Designed from scratch with the advanced angler in mind, ECHO Fly Fishing’s new TROUT X rods will change your game. Typically, rods are designed to excel on 30-50 foot casts. TROUT X rods ditch that “magic range” mentality with a unique curve that we call Variable Sweet Spot (VSS). This innovative approach allows expert casters to make optimal casts at any distance. Whether you’re targeting a small rainbow in a mountain stream or shooting across big open water, ECHO’s VSS technology is ready to deliver perfect casts.
“These rods are made with a flex curve that will help medium to advanced casters cover more water over more conditions than any rod we have produced in the past,” says ECHO’s Tim Rajeff.
TROUT X rods are four-piece setups with a mist green finish to help them blend into most trout environments. The snake guides are chrome plated for less friction and the stripper guides help improve line shooting. Half-wells grips and beautiful burlwood reel seats finish the look. TROUT X rods come in a variety of popular sizes for a variety of casting situations:
- 376 TROUT X – 7’6″ 3wt
- 484 TROUT X – 8’4″ 4wt
- 490 TROUT X – 9’0″ 4wt
- 590 TROUT X – 9’0″ 5wt
- 690 TROUT X – 9’0″ 6wt
The 3wt model is built for fun on small, freestone water. It’s soft enough to load a short length of line and still powerful enough to handle gusty days. Two 4wt models provide options for chasing bigger fish on the 490 or tighter casting conditions with the 484. Our 590 5wt is an ideal, multipurpose trout rod in the most popular size for 5x and 6x tippet. Beginner anglers will grow into the TROUT X 590 with practice and advanced anglers will immediately feel at home. And yes, we have a 6wt for trout. Use it in the wind. Use it for bigger rivers and lakes. Use it for throwing big bugs. Just use it.
Learn more about the TROUT X line at HERE
About ECHO Fly Fishing
ECHO is a small group of passionate, personable fly-fisher folk based in Vancouver, Washington. For over 20 years, ECHO has been leaning on the fly-fishing pedigree of rod designer Tim Rajeff. Tim is a world champion fly caster and fly-fishing industry stalwart with a passion for creating high-quality performance fly rods. More details about ECHO, Rajeff Sports and the Trout X rod line can be found at echoflyfishing.com
A wilderness fly fishing adventure with African Waters! A new video captures a unique angling pursuit — largemouth yellowfish on fly.
From African Waters:
“largemouth yellowfish – The Orange River, originates in the mountains of Lesotho (Interesting fact: The Bokong River, which is home to the Makhangoa Community Camp is one of its highest tributaries). Flowing in a general westerly direction, it exits Lesotho, travels across the interior of South Africa into the Northern Cape where it forms the border between Namibia to the north and South Africa to the south. It is in this region, as it flows through the remote regions of the Kalahari Desert, that we set up our base and run multi day wilderness fly fishing drifts each year from August through to the end of October.
This coincides with the end of the dry season, with water levels dropping, heating and clearing. It is over this period that adventurous fly anglers have the best opportunity to fly fish for largemouth yellowfish, arguably the pinnacle of fresh water fly fishing in Southern Africa.
So what is the Kalahari Wilderness Drift all about? Well, the fish primarily, but a lot more too (more on this later). African Waters’ wilderness drifts focuses on two separate 30 km sections. We drift each section of river over 5 days (4 nights wild camping), with the first and last night of the standard 6 night trip spent at our base camp, Wild Paradise with our industry partners Gravity Adventures. Here we set up a semi-permanent tented camp for the season.
Fly fishing for largemouth yellowfish, is primarily a function of working water productively. This is where the African Waters custom built drift bats are an absolute game changer. Designed specifically for this drift, each boat accommodates one guide, on the ore rig, and two anglers (fore and aft) with both sitting and standing room. Efficient anchor systems, storage space and stable floors compliment the experience.
Fly fishing to largies is about working out the patterns, where the fish are holding, and how they want the fly to be presented. This is an ever changing dynamic, and guides and guests work closely to decipher the code each day on the water. Whether it is swinging streamers in tail-outs, plopping flies around structure, or fishing tight to bank side vegetation, the juice is always worth the squeeze when it all comes together. These fish grow slow, and get big. Putting on roughly 1 one pound per year, a 15lb fish is wise, wily and strong. A fish over 20lb’s, is truly prehistoric. All largies, no matter the size, richly deserve our reverence and respect. Some spectacular smallmouth yellows (up to 8lbs) will also be caught when fishing streamers to largies. However, should guests wish to spend time dedicated to smallie fishing, the days will be planned accordingly. Upstream indicator nymphing, euro style nymphing, and even dead drifting alphlexo crabs are a few of the funs ways guests can target these turbo charged smallies on the drift.
The wilderness camps set-up is planned to ensure an authentic desert and wilderness experience. An 8x8m Bedouin tent is the heart of the camp, it provides shade in over lunch times, and is where meals are prepared and dinners shared. Each angler sleeps in his/her own swag, which includes a comfortable ¾ mattress. These swags can be configured completely open to the elements , partially closed (with mosquito gauze), or completely closed.
A Kalahari wilderness drift is more than the fly fishing however. It is about connecting to oneself, friends, family and nature, and disconnecting from our phones, screens, and the day to day stress of modern living. It is about an intimate wilderness experience. It is about drastic sunsets, desert landscapes, rugged red mountains and a green river of like that snakes its way through the thirsty Kalahari Desert. It is about cold beers, tight loops, great food, starlight nights, outdoor living, belly laughs, whoops of joy when a largie meets the net, early morning coffee, and late night whisky around the fire. We can’t wait to share the experience with you!”
To check out more from African Waters, please click here.
A new video from the New Fly Fisher follows anglers as they take on big trophy trout in Eastern Idaho. In addition to the impressive trout, this area of the country has some impressive beauty.
To check out more from the New Fly Fisher, please click here.
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Meredith McCord hits the Florida Keys backcountry in an episode of Silver Kings.
From Silver Kings:
“There are very few places in the world Meredith McCord hasn’t fished. And she has skills to show for it. Watch what happens when Meredith and Jared put these skills to the test in the Florida Keys Backcountry.”
To check out more from Silver Kings, please click here.
The Malleo River is a trout angler’s dream, and a video from Chocolate Lab Expeditions highlights how great this river is.
From Chocolate Lab Expeditions:
“The Malleo River consistently wins the hearts of visiting anglers. The Lanin Volcano stands tall over the gorgeous Malleo Valley and serves as a marker of the Chile-Argentina border. Anglers enjoy fly fishing for rainbow, brown, and brook trout that average between 14-20 inches with a decent number of fish in the 21-24 inch class. Sometimes we encounter fish that are even larger on this river.
Learn more about the Malleo River and fly fishing with Chocolate Lab Expeditions: cleflyfishing.com
+Filmers: Bryan Gregson, Will Phelps
+Editor: Sean McCormick”
To check out more from Chocolate Lab Expeditions, please click here.
Das Boat heads to the Savannah River in Georgia with Frank Smethurst and Mustache Rob in Episode 5 of MeatEater’s new fishing show.
From MeatEater:
“Returning to a favorite fishing spot from your past can be a questionable choice. What if it’s not as good as you remember? What if everybody and their sister started fishing your spots? What if you’re not as good as you remember? In this episode of Das Boat, Frank Smethurst and his old friend Mustache Rob circle back to some of their old favorite stomping grounds on the Savannah River in Augusta, Georgia. They catch some of the many native sport fish in this archetypical southern river, and set their sights on the east coast’s most sought after migratory game fish—stripers. Along the way, Das Boat gets a major upgrade, and they discuss the Georgia-South Carolina rivalry, southern roots, Bartram’s Bass, and the intertwined history of Augusta and the Savannah River. #whateverfloats
Dive in to the MeatEater Fishing Dept. here: http://bit.ly/2N7zBQY
Check out how Honda Marine is powering Das Boat here: http://bit.ly/2TyWKgr”
To check out more from MeatEater, please click here.
More Atlantic salmon action from HOOKÉ!
From HOOKÉ:
“There are no words to explain how incredible the Lewis River Lodge is, the proximity of the lodge to the river makes it such a unique place. The people behind Loop Tackle have not only built one of the most beautiful lodges in the world but also have invested a lot of time in research and science to better understand the environment and the Atlantic Salmon that migrate up this river.”
To check out more from HOOKÉ, please click here.
Exuma – In Search Of The Double Digit from Secret Rivers on Vimeo. Chasing big bonefish in the Bahamas!
From Secret Rivers:
“Join us on our latest trip to the Exumas – Bahamas. Saltwater Fly Fishing at its finest! Biggest Bonefish ever and lemon shark action included.”
To check out more from Secret Rivers, please click here.
A Montana fly fishing trip is captured in a new video.
From WildFly Productions:
“Since I picked up a fly rod, my cousins and I have dreamed of fishing out west. This past summer we made that trip a reality and we can’t wait to go back! ”
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
Famed Southwest Montana fly fishing guide Dan “Rooster” Leavens is the focus of a new video from Polaris and Simms.
From Simms:
“With a unique guiding style and a specialty of ‘fishing where there ain’t nobody’, Dan ‘Rooster’ Leavens has been a Simms Ambassador for the past 14 years. During this time, he has also been a key member of Simms’ R&D team and has field-tested too many products to count. Rooster believes that in order to pay the bills as a guide, you have to actually get out there and guide year round — a stance he backs up with his calendar. But just like all hard-working professionals, even Rooster takes a day off here and there. Our friends from Polaris recently took advantage of this rare occasion to not only see exactly how Rooster prefers to spend his spare time, but also to get a better sense of what it means to Fish It Well in Southwestern Montana.”
To check out more from Rooster at Stonefly Inn & Outfitters, please click here.
Steelhead action on the Lower Deschutes River in a new video from Todd Moen and Catch Magazine!
From Catch Magazine:
“Steelhead are NEVER known for being easy to catch. In fact, the more difficult they are to catch, the more valuable each fish becomes. There is a certain satisfaction in catching a steelhead on a skated dry fly. It feels like a big accomplishment to catch one of these fish in the most pure and sportive method possible. That challenge is the very reason angler Jeff Hickman began fly fishing in the fist place. It was not to catch fish easily. He wanted to learn how to catch fish in the most challenging ways possible. In this video, angler Jeff Hickman uses his jet boat to access the roadless Lower Deschutes River with his guide and friend Barrett Ames. These desert steelhead, most of them just straying out of the mighty Columbia River, are very tuned into the surface and will aggressively rise to a skated dry fly.
As a videographer and an angler, I know that some of my favorite times on the river have been spent with Jeff Hickman, owner of Fish the Swing. In fact, no matter the weather or the location, Jeff has the magic ability to find fish, tell a story worth sharing, or do both simultaneously. Last fall, “Desert Dries” came together just as I’d hoped. It tells the real story of steelhead fishing, where most of the time spent on the river is in pondering life questions while waiting for the steelhead to hit. Here Jeff fished the Burkheimer 6128, Scientific Anglers Deliverance Spey with floating tip and Bauer RX6 Classic Spey Reel in conditions that were typical of the Upper Deschutes in the fall. Revealing the remains of Columbia River Gorge’s tremendous and devastating wildfires, the charred and barren landscape made for interesting hiking and challenging filming.Thanks to Bauer Fly Reels, Fish The Swing, Eddie Bauer and Scientific Anglers for their generous support of Catch Magazine.”
To check out more from Todd Moen and Catch Magazine, please click here.
A consortium has come together within the fishing industry to support anglers in the Bahamas affected by Hurricane Dorian. Double Haul for Dorian seeks to “help those in the angling industry – the guides, lodge employees and those that are directly linked to the fishing industry on Abaco and Grand Bahamas.” As they put it, “Lodges can be rebuilt and insurance can pay out. For the individuals that are affected however – by loss of property, possessions and income – we want to make a direct difference.”
To learn more about these efforts, please click here.
SCALE Magazine has a new issue of their (free online) magazine out, and there is some good fly fishing content in this one. Especially noteworthy — an article on life in Alaska.
To check out the new issue of SCALE Magazine, please click here.
Das Boat — the new fishing series from MeatEater — heads to Lake Okeechobee, Florida with April Vokey and Oliver Ngy in Episode 4 of the show.
From MeatEater:
“Lake Okeechobee—Florida’s inland sea of freshwater, grass, and largemouth bass. This week, Das Boat dives deep into Florida’s watery heart with a Candian and a Californian. The host of our own Anchored podcast, April Vokey, meets up with big bass expert Oliver Ngy and they try to figure out one of the most notoriously complex and rewarding bass fisheries in the country. Along the way, they discuss the iconography of Okeechobee, America’s obsession with bass, glitter boats, and the founders of Captains for Clean Water explain what’s being done about Florida’s water quality problems. #whateverfloats
In recognition of this episode, along with last week’s episode that both take place in Florida, MeatEater has teamed up with Captains for Clean Water to design a collab shirt that supports the awful state of Florida’s water crisis. Help us support this important cause by shopping the shirt here: http://bit.ly/2ZEkSzS
Dive in to the MeatEater Fishing Dept. here: http://bit.ly/2N7zBQY
Check out how Honda Marine is powering Das Boat here: http://bit.ly/2TyWKgr”
To check out more from MeatEater, please click here.
RepYourWater is encouraging donations to the Yellow Dog Community & Conservation Foundation by offering a special edition hat.
From RepYourWater:
“You already know that the Bahamas need us. To encourage donations we are offering an early release of this special edition hat that we are making with [Yellow Dog] to everyone who donates $200+ to [the Yellow Dog Community & Conservation Foundation] and the emergency fund they have set up for Bahamas Hurricane relief. Any donation amount will help but to get first dibs at this hat please donate $200 or more through @ydccf. There are many ways to help, we hope you will find one that works for you.”
To donate to the Yellow Dog Community & Conservation Foundation, please click here.
Sight Line Provisions has created two bonefish dog collars to support Hurricane Dorian relief in the Bahamas.
To check out these collars, please click here.
The Abaco Islands and Grand Bahama are devastated by Hurricane Dorian. The news is bad and is getting worse. There is a humanitarian crisis, and these people need our help. Please consider donating to one or more of the organizations and lodge staff funds below. We will continuously update this list.
Bahamas Red Cross(Click here)
Catholic Relief Services(Click here)
Yellow Dog Community & Conservation Foundation(Click here)
Abaco Lodge Hurricane Dorian Relief Efforts(Click here)
Americares
(Click here)
The Salvation Army(Click here)
Team Rubicon(Click here)
East End Lodge Dorian Relief Effort – East End Grand Bahama(Click here)
The Delphi Club Abaco Relief Fund(Click here)
H2obonefishing – Hurricane Dorian Recovery Fund(Click here)
IDAHO FALLS, IDAHO (September 3, 2019) – Once again, RIO rises to the demand of anglers this time by introducing an incredibly effective family of sinking lines designed for the lake angler. The new Fathom CleanSweep Sinking lines is a series of multi-density lines proves deadly for anglers fishing lakes and stillwaters.
Each line in the Fathom CleanSweep Sinking series is built with three different densities and designed to fish the fly in a lethal “sweep” through the water column. Each line starts with a clear, intermediate tip that seamlessly integrates to a medium or fast sinking body and then to a slow sinking running line. This blend of densities ensures that the line sinks in a u-shape when retrieving through the water with the fly following. The fly starts shallow, dives deeper during the retrieve and then climbs back to the surface towards the end of the retrieve providing an effective way of fishing the fly at multiple depths in a single cast. Each line has a short, 35-foot head for easy casting and quick loading and a hang marker 20 feet from the tip to visually and tactilely fish the “hang”.
Available in 5 through 8-weight offerings, these lines come in S2/S4/1 for a sink rate of 2 ips (inches per second) at the running line to 4ips in the body to the intermediate tip as well as S4/S6/I for a bit faster sinking running line and body and greater depth. They come in clear/black/light aqua for the slower sinking version and clear/black/dark aqua for the faster sinking options. Find them at your nearest RIO dealer for $79.99.
Watch here for more information.
About RIO Products:
RIO is a pioneer in developing fly lines, leaders and tippet material to enhance fly fishing experiences across the globe. Offering premium fly lines for both freshwater and saltwater fishing applications, RIO consistently utilizes field experience and scientific testing to create the best products on the market for anglers. Founded 20 years ago in the mountains of Idaho, RIO continues to develop innovative products, design revolutionary tapers and refine performance-driven fly line technologies. For more information about RIO Products, please visit www.rioproducts.com. Connect with us through Facebook, Instagram, and Vimeo.
Another fun one from FLYRUS.
From FLYRUS:
“Fly Fishing in Norway means for most angler fly fishing for salmon. However, out in the ocean there are many fish which offer insane fun on a fly rod too!
No matter whether small mackerels or big pollocks, every fly fisher should give this fishery a try!”
To check out more from this video maker, please here.
Tierra del Fuego, New Zealand, Spain, Oman, and more! The new issue of The Mission is now live and this free online magazine is simply packed with content from destinations throughout the world.
To check out the latest issue of The Mission, please click here.
A major league baseball player lives the good life in the off season in a new video from Orvis.
From Orvis:
“When the lights go down at Fenway, Boston Red Sox pitcher Rick Porcello heads for a place where he’s no longer the center of attention – to a place that centers him the most.
Watch as the Cy Young Award winning Porcello and Orvis COO Simon Perkins hit the mangroves of southwest Florida in the pursuit of snook and a life of of adventure, wonder, and balance.”
To check out more from Orvis, please click here.
Das Boat heads to Florida to take on the waters around Sanibel Island in Episode 3 of their series from MeatEater.
From MeatEater:
“Das Boat rolls all the way over to the west coast of Florida to hook up with our very own conservation director, Ryan Callaghan and the Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge artist in residence Ed Anderson. Cal and Ed try to convert this old boat into a poling skiff and go looking for snook, tarpon, speckled trout, and redfish. Along the way they discuss the National Wildlife Refuge system, poop decks, the history of the duck stamp, Ding Darling, the queen mother of red tides, and learning to love rejection . . . from fish. #whateverfloats
Das Boat Challenge: Find Cal’s mustache! In this episode, Das Boat gets some custom artwork from Ed Anderson. Ed hid a secret homage to Cal’s fuzzy upper lip somewhere in the painting. The first ten mugs who email us with the specific location of this hidden gem win a special prize: MeatEater’s first fishing dept. shirt. Watch closely, and holler when you find it by sending an email to themeateater@themeateater.com.
MeatEater has also teamed up with artist Ed Anderson to bring you a mean-looking tarpon hoody and to call attention to water quality issues in Florida. All profits will be donated to the conservation non-profit Captains For Clean Water. Check it out here: http://bit.ly/2ZEkSzS”
To check out more from MeatEater, please click here.
March midges in Montana! A great video from Will Phelps.
From Will Phelps:
“These insects are small in size, but large numbers of them can bring up good quantities of fish. Midges are one of the few bugs that a trout can rise to this time of year, as winter fades away.
Many anglers disregard dry fly fishing during cold temperatures of the season. In my opinion, this can be some of the greatest dry fly fishing of the year. Without seeing flies for months, the trout become desensitized to an angler’s offering. They need to beef up after withstanding a long, harsh winter. To these fish, everything looks appetizing.”
To check out more from Will Phelps, please click here.
New episodes of the Drifting podcast from YETI are now live, and Texas fly fishing guide Alvin Dedeaux gets interviewed by his buddy JT Van Zandt in one of the episodes (available above on YouTube).
From YETI:
“Two long time fishing buddies do what they do best – talk about fishing. Go way back with Alvin and JT as they reminisce about punk rock, share their principles on being a jerk, and talk about the good ol’ days, when real confrontation meant the threat of getting punched in the face.”
To check out the Drifting podcast from YETI, please click here.
From Winston Rods:
Welcome to ALPHA+. A Winston rod series designed to up your game against the Alpha fish lurking in the shadows. Carnivorous trout, thrashing bass, toothy pike and musky, jungle species like peacock bass, golden dorado and arapaima, and huge saltwater species like giant trevally and Tarpon. Pure and simple, these rods are for any fish that require extra-large fishing tools no matter the water type.
With wicked fast action, ALPHA+ rods have been designed to cast aggressive rigs – including big flies, heavy lines, shooting heads and sinking tips. These rods will cast these big rigs further with minimal false casts and effort.
Built like none other. These game changing rods use unique features not found in any other series, like a designated grain window for each model to help anglers sort through the wide offering of over-weighted lines available on the market today. This helps eliminate the confusion associated with lines over-weighted by 1 or 2 line weights. Simply match a lines grain window to the appropriate Alpha model to suit your needs and fishing style
ALPHA+ rods are extra reinforced in the ferrule for ultimate lifting power, to turn fish away from heavy cover, and support all-day casting with big flies and fly lines.
WEIGHTS: 5 thru 12wt.
ACTION: Fast
SECTIONS: 4
GUIDES: Hard chrome oversized snake ‘Shooting Guides’ with chrome nanolite stripping guides. Oversized tiptop.
REEL SEAT: Uplocking, Anodized aluminum with double locking rings. Engraved with company signature logo.
STORAGE: Premium graphite rod tube with embroidered logo rod sock
HIGHLIGHTS
- 5 thru 12wt.
- Highest performance boron/graphite composite materials
- Exceptionally powerful, capable of generating high line speeds
- Designed to cast big flies, heavy lines, shooting heads and sinking tips
- Extra reinforced ferrules for ultimate lifting power
- Designated grain windows for each rod model
- Designed and Handcrafted in Twin Bridges, MT
| LINE | LENGTH | GRIP | GRAIN WINDOW | ROD PRICE | BLANK PRICE | | 5wt. | 9’ | FULL WELLS W/ FIGHTING BUTT | 160-200 | $935 | $468 | | 6wt. | 9’ | FULL WELLS W/ FIGHTING BUTT | 200-240 | $935 | $468 | | 7wt. | 9’ | FULL WELLS W/ FIGHTING BUTT | 240-280 | $935 | $468 | | 8wt. | 9’ | FULL WELLS W/ FIGHTING BUTT | 280-330 | $935 | $468 | | 9wt. | 9’ | FULL WELLS W/ FIGHTING BUTT | 330-380 | $935 | $468 | | 10wt. | 9’ | FULL WELLS W/ FIGHTING BUTT | 380-430 | $935 | $468 | | 12wt. | 9’ | FULL WELLS W/ FIGHTING BUTT | 450-500 | $935 | $468 |
ALPHA+ 6wt.
200-240 grain lines: This rod was designed for meat eating trout and bass: think mice patterns in Kamchatka, full sink tips and double articulated bugs on the Yellowstone, fast pocket water in Patagonia, and poppers and divers in the mid-west. Also a great a choice for smaller Jungle species like piranha, payara, and others. If you’re a streamer junkie and searching for you next big bug stick, look no further than the AXL – 6/7
ALPHA+7wt.
240-280 grain lines: You might call them bucketmouths, keggers, and donkeys. If you understand these designations, you’re a big-bass angler. The AXL – 7/8 has been designed to shoot the biggest bass bugs with over-sized lines into the thickest cover, and turn these lunkers back to the boat.
ALPHA+ 8wt.
280-330 grain lines. Jaguars lurk in the shadows behind you. Howler Monkeys call from the canopy. Forget the term “teeth,” fish with fangs swim in these waters. Whatever and wherever your Jungle adventures go, our reinforced AXL – 8/9 rods are built to cast oversized lines, humongous flies, and with extra power to pull these powerful fish away from leader snapping structure.
ALPHA+ 9wt.
330-380 grain lines. We were thinking Musky when designing these powerful rods. The fish of 10,000 casts never comes easy. But our AXL – 9/10 has been designed for power, big bug turnover, and foot-long flies, while having the sensitivity for mandatory figure 8s and at-the-boat eats.
ALPHA+10wt.
380-430 grain lines. These rods are built for the fish with “Giant,” “King,” or “Monster” in the name. Think Giant Trevally, Monster Arapaima, and Silver Kings. If you’re a modern day Beowulf, consider this fly rod your monster-slaying “Hilt.” Fear not what awaits in the abyss, just cast, strip, and hold on.
TORRANCE, Calif., August 22, 2019 – Pelican Products, Inc., known for its premium high performance cases including the Pelican Air, classic Protector Case and Storm Case lines introduced brightly colored Marine Blue and Bright Green, to the rock-solid and more affordable VAULT by Pelican case lineup. Designed to offer class-leading durability and dependable protection for sensitive gear such as camera equipment, drones, telescopes and other valuable, potentially fragile items, the new bright green and marine blue equipment cases are available in V100 (Interior: 11.0 x 8.0 x 4.5 in/Exterior: 12.3 x 12.0 x 5.2 in) and V200 (Interior: 14.0 x 10.0 x 5.5 in/Exterior: 15.4 x 13.1 x 6.2 in) sizes. The full line of VAULT by Pelican cases range in price from $39.99 to $199.99 and are backed by a 1-year guarantee. To learn more, go to www.pelican.com/vault.
Rock-Solid Durability So You Can “Handle Without Care!”
The two new multi-purpose VAULT by Pelican cases ensure rock-solid durability, boasting heavy-duty handles and hinges, nail-tough stainless steel lock hasps and a shock-resistant, high-impact polymer shell to ensure users can “handle without care” and be confident their valuable gear will be protected from everything including harsh weather, accidental drops or kicks, dust, and even baggage mishandlers. In addition to the two new green and blue multi-purpose cases, the VAULT by Pelican series also includes eight additional models ideal for safely and securely carrying equipment, and firearms and ammo.
Key features of the new multi-purpose VAULT by Pelican cases:
-
- Crushproof, Dustproof and Weather-resistant Construction
- Easy to Open Push Button Latches
- Layered Foam Interior
- Heavy-Duty Solid Handles
- Stainless Steel Lock Hasps
Pelican Products, Inc. is a portfolio company of Behrman Capital, a private equity investment firm based in New York and San Francisco.
Pelican Products, Inc. is the global leader in the design and manufacture of high performance protective cases, temperature controlled packaging solutions, advanced portable lighting systems and rugged gear for professionals and outdoor enthusiasts. Their products are used by professionals in the most demanding markets including fire safety, law enforcement, defense / military, aerospace, entertainment, industrial and consumer. Pelican products are designed and built to last a lifetime. The company operates in 21 countries, with 22 international sales offices and six manufacturing facilities around the globe. In Europe, the company does business under the name Peli Products, S.L.U. For more information, visit www.pelican.com or http://www.behrmancap.com.
Das Boat heads to Austin to take on some urban angling with Alvin Dedeaux and Jesse Griffiths.
From MeatEater:
“After a successful trip on the Texas coast, JT and Steve send Das Boat up to Austin to do a little urban angling. In this episode, Austin based fishing guide Alvin Dedeaux and James Beard Award winning chef Jesse Griffiths test out Das Boat’s river capabilities on the Lower Colorado. They target Guadalupe bass on topwater lures and try to find a way to land a prehistoric gar. Along the way they discuss playing in club bands, fishing near cities, eating bass, and the secret berry that helped monks stay . . . monkly. Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes!”
To check out more from MeatEater, please click here.
Today is A Day for Bristol Bay, and the American Fly Fishing Trade Association is calling for support to help protect Bristol Bay, Alaska from Pebble Mine.
Things have never looked so dire. Please consider donating to help efforts to protect this treasured ecosystem.
To learn more, please click here.
MeatEater has launched a new fishing show! Das Boat follows an old aluminum boat throughout the U.S. and episode one launches in Texas with JT Van Zandt.
From MeatEater:
“In the first episode, Steve purchases Das Boat out of a backyard in central Texas then takes it to a local fabricator and spends a day trying to make sure it’ll float. He and Texas fishing icon, JT Van Zandt chase redfish down on the coast, taking Das Boat into skinny saltwater it’s definitely never seen before. They end the day in JT’s kitchen cooking up a spread of blackened redfish tacos and sipping a little tequila. Along the way they discuss tribalism, the benefits of artificial lures vs. dead bait, the serviceability of redfish flesh, and the closest thing to a chicken thigh you can find on a fish. Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes!”
To check out more from MeatEater, please click here.
From YETI:
Austin, Texas (August 22, 2019) — YETI® Holdings, Inc. (“YETI”) (NYSE: YETI), a leading premium outdoor brand, today launched the latest evolution of its soft cooler collection, the Hopper® M30. The Hopper M30 features a new leak-resistant HydroShieldTM magnetized closure that provides superior ice retention and usability.
“We’re committed to providing our customers with the most innovative and highest quality gear on the market to use as they pursue their active adventures,” says YETI President and CEO, Matt Reintjes. “We know the Hopper M30 design will deliver incredible portability, durability, and ice retention, and we’re excited to officially introduce it to consumers.”
The Hopper M30 is completely waterproof and uses high-density fabric that resists punctures, abrasions, mildew, and UV rays for unmatched durability. It offers superior thermal performance due to its closed- cell foam insulation and is engineered with a 50 percent wider opening for increased ease of use.
The Hopper M30 is the latest product within the YETI soft-sided Hopper family and joins the Hopper FlipTM 8, the Hopper Flip 12, and the Hopper Flip 18. While it’s the first Hopper product to use a novel magnet technology, YETI began incorporating magnetic closures in 2017, first with the Rambler® MagSliderTM Lid and most recently within the SideKick DryTM and DaytripTM Lunch Bag.
The Hopper M30 retails for $299.99 and is available in Charcoal, Navy, and, for a limited time, River Green. For more information regarding the Hopper M30, and YETI’s other premium products, please visit yeti.com.
About YETI Holdings, Inc.
YETI is a growing designer, marketer, retailer, and distributor of a variety of innovative, branded, premium products to a wide-ranging customer base. Our mission is to ensure that each YETI product delivers exceptional performance and durability in any environment, whether in the remote wilderness, at the beach, or anywhere else life takes our customers. By consistently delivering high-performing products, we have built a following of engaged brand loyalists throughout the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia, and elsewhere, ranging from serious outdoor enthusiasts to individuals who simply value products of uncompromising quality and design. Our relationship with customers continues to thrive and deepen as a result of our innovative new product introductions, expansion and enhancement of existing product families, and multifaceted branding activities.
Nautilus Reels is auctioning (on eBay) a one-of-a-kind No Pebble Mine reel.
From Nautilus Reels:
“Nautilus Reels is auctioning a custom, all red No Pebble Mine XLMax reel. Only one of these reels has been made, and it is numbered 1/1.
100% of proceeds (less fees) will be donated to the AFFTA FISHERIES FUND in support of their Day for Bristol Bay. All donations from this campaign will go to the Bristol Bay Defense Fund.
Condition of the reel is new. Shipped USPS First Class Package. Only one of these reels ever made!”
To see the auction, please click here.
Join us for A Day for Bristol Bay from AFFTA / IFTD on Vimeo. We’ve got a big fight ahead of us, and we need all hands on deck!
To help raise funds and awareness of the Pebble Mine issue in Bristol Bay, the American Fly Fishing Trade Association has organized A Day for Bristol Bay.
From the American Fly Fishing Trade Association:
The fly fishing community has been fighting for over a decade to keep Pebble Mine from devastating Bristol Bay and the fisheries that sustain 14,000 jobs, a $1.5 billion dollar annual economic engine, native communities and a world-class destination to fly fish.
On August 24th, the fly fishing community is coming together as one undeniable force in support of Bristol Bay – and we need your help!
Fly shops, manufacturers, guides, outfitters, lodges and more industry professionals nationwide have banded together for A Day for Bristol Bay to raise much-needed funding for the Bristol Bay Defense Fund – the front-line group that is going toe-to-toe in D.C. with the foreign mining interests behind the mine.
Whether you’re a fly angler or just love the outdoors, we need you to shop, fish and show up for Bristol Bay on August 24th!
Learn more, register or donate here: affta.org/2019/07/24/calling-the-entire-fly-fishing-community-a-day-for-bristol-bay-is-august-24th/
Thank you!
There is an ecological crisis in the Everglades and our help is needed. Bullsugar.org is fighting the good fight, and one way to get them some financial support is with the purchase of the Now or Neverglades Hat from RepYourWater. 50% of proceeds from this hat go to Bullsugar.org. Awesome.
To check out this hat from RepYourWater, please click here.
Episode 2 – Leaf River from HOOKÉ on Vimeo.
The Quebec fly fishing adventure continues with the crew from HOOKÉ.
From HOOKÉ:
“This year, we had the opportunity to explore Northern Quebec at its best. Here’s a glimpse of the action we had on the Leaf River, a paradise for Atlantic Salmon fishing. It’s a unique place where we could watch caribou crossing the river, while fishing trophy fish in this area where there is almost no fishing pressure. This 300 km river is surrounded by amazing scenery and also boasts world class trout.”
To check out more from HOOKÉ, please click here.
Episode 1 – Wedge Hills Lodge from HOOKÉ on Vimeo.
Atlantic salmon on the fly in a new video from HOOKÉ.
From HOOKÉ:
“During our expedition in northern Quebec, we had the opportunity to fish for atlantic salmon on the George River. Richard Hume and Amanda Kat allowed us to be the first to fish at the Wedge Hills Lodge that year, far from the bustle of urban life, and right in the middle of breathtaking landscapes, in the centre of the habitat of wildlife species found in only a few rare corners of the earth.”
To check out more from HOOKÉ, please click here.
The EXPO FLY FISHING PATAGONIA is returning to San Martín de los Andes for its second annual event November 30 – December 1, 2019.
From EXPO FLY FISHING PATAGONIA:
“The EXPO FLY FISHING PATAGONIA takes place in San Martín de los Andes, North Patagonia in Argentina, a small city located in the middle of some of the best trout fishing waters in southern hemisphere. SMA along with other towns around receives thousands of anglers every season from all over the globe, looking for what we have to offer; the finest dry fly fishing, the unique solitude or the chance to catch the fish of a lifetime.
The town has become a premium fly fishing destination and the community has evolved behind, creating lots of fishing business such as fly shops, outfitters, guides, catering, lodges and many other services.
The EXPO comes to get this entire people together, in order to create more opportunities for making our passion and way of living even greater. A whole weekend with conferences, clinics, meetings, video shows, new products demo sessions and booths. Also several nonprofit organizations will attend and talk, such as fishing clubs, fishing associations and the fishing guide’s chamber.
Last year the EXPO had around 800 people attending the show and over 50 different companies, institutions, brands and services sponsoring and showing their products.”
To learn more about EXPO FLY FISHING PATAGONIA, please click here.
From Scott Fly Rods:
Imagine a rod that casts tight high line speed loops effortlessly and turns over your leader straight into the wind; a rod that delivers the fly on target with just one false cast, and can pick it back up and redirect if the fish changes course; a rod that is intuitive so you can focus on the fish instead of your cast; a rod that feels light and alive in your hand and has the touch and feel needed to make short quick shots or float the fly in quietly. All that, plus a rod hand crafted with the very best components to ever grace a fly rod-
Introducing the all new Sector Series of high performance, hand crafted fly rods from Scott.
Sector fly rods advance our award winning ReAct technology with new tapers and our new Carbon Web. They also introduce the most cutting-edge fly rod components ever created.
Scott’s all new Carbon Web technology improves torsional stability and rod durability by encasing the unidirectional fibers in a web of ultra-light multi-directional carbon fiber.
These fibers help counteract torsional forces giving you better tracking and power for long line pickups and redirecting casts.
They also help to reduce the propagation of micro fractures from stress or impact that can run in unidirectional layups.
Sector rods are fit with newly designed components that defy harsh saltwater environments, redefine reliability, and enhance angler experience.
They feature all new Ceracoil stripping guides with nickel titanium frames and super slick Zirconia inserts, along with Recoil nickel titanium snake guides for low friction and corrosion free performance. The guide sets are PVD coated in a low reflective coating for even greater durability and stealth.
The reel seats are milled from aircraft grade aluminum and feature self-indexing slide hoods, extra deep knurling to easily turn lock rings with wet hands, type 3 mil-spec hard coat in non-reflective flat black, and line weight engravings for quick rod identification.
Flor grade cork grips are turned to our modified wells shape, and the new fighting butts feature a thick soft rubber for greater comfort in tough fights or while bracing on long casts.
No need to dream about your perfect fly rod- It’s here. The new Sector Series from Scott.
From Hobie:
Oceanside, CA (July 22, 2019) – Kayak anglers are buzzing about Hobie’s exciting reveal at last week’s 2019 ICAST show in Orlando. The chatter centers on the kayak-fishing leader’s newest engineering feat—an astonishing 360-degree rotating pedal drive with Kick-Up Fins—an all-new paradigm in kayak fishing boat control. Six years in the making and complete with a nearly 100-page patent registration, the Hobie MirageDrive 360 is available on the Pro Angler 360 Series. The MirageDrive 360 the newest flagship propulsion system in the Hobie kayak fishing fleet – a broad family of craft that includes the affordable Passport with the MirageDrive Classic, versatile Outback that comes standard with the forward and reversing MirageDrive 180, stalwart Pro Angler MirageDrive 180 and 360 collections, and other models.
The International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades’ (ICAST) New Product Showcase Awards recognize the best new fishing products in multiple categories each year. Voted on by attending product buyers and members of the sportfishing media, these “Best of Category” awards represent the pinnacle of achievement in the sport fishing industry and are intensely competitive. The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 with 360 Drive Technology was awarded “Best in Show: Boats and Watercraft” – no small feat considering the wealth of competition within this crowded segment.
The remarkable new Hobie MirageDrive 360 propulsion system is a 360-degree rotating pedal drive that allows anglers to easily maneuver their 2020 Mirage Pro Angler 360 Series fishing kayak in every direction—backwards, forward, sideways, diagonally—or even effortlessly spin on its own axis. Upping the ante with all-new Kick-Up Fins, which automatically retract upon impact, the new MirageDrive 360 delivers precision boat control and close-quarter maneuverability that’s unrivaled by any other human-powered watercraft. With the MirageDrive 360, anglers can go where there want and fish how they want with total control and complete confidence.
“We’re incredibly honored by this award,” says Philip Dow, Lead Design Engineer for Hobie. “We’re humbled by the positive response from the public and retail. We had lofty expectations, but they’ve been exceeded. From the On-the-Water demo event to talking with folks in our booth, the new MirageDrive 360 attracted nonstop crowds during the four days of ICAST.”
“This award represents years of hard work, research, and development,” says Hobie CEO, Doug Skidmore. “It’s proof that Hobie is constantly innovating and seeking out solutions to problems faced by kayak anglers on a daily basis and delivering on our goal to introduce watercraft technologies that help anglers fish more easily and catch more fish.”
Catch more fish it does! Anglers using MirageDrive 360 will immediately discover they spend less time positioning their boat and more time in the strike zone. Boat control is brought to an entirely new level, affording anglers the ability to surgically position themselves to make the best cast and presentation to the fish, as well as staying on top of fish once found, shallow or deep or anywhere in between.
The MirageDrive 360 allows access to tighter quarters and more fishing scenarios. Imagine being able to turn on a dime and easily maneuver in every direction. Lead Design Engineer Dow says the MirageDrive 360 completely changes how anglers engage with their boat and the environment. “If you’re fishing along a shoreline or highly contoured underwater structure, you can follow those nuances exactly with boat placement. Similarly, the Kick-Up Fins afford worry-free access to additional productive waters. Shallow and structure-filled areas become far more manageable. Hobie’s MirageDrive360 completely redefines boat control.”
The new Hobie Pro Angler 360 Series will be available for purchase in Fall of 2019 at authorized Hobie dealers. The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 with 360 Technology is offered at an MSRP of $4,649; the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 with 360 Technology has an MSRP of $4,799 (excluding taxes and shipping). Learn more at https://www.hobie.com/fishing-kayaks/.
That first redfish will make any angler a saltwater addict!
From WildFly Productions:
“Watch with headphones for best results!
Hope you guys enjoy this weeks episode where we switch gears and target some saltwater fish. We met up with our good friend Ryan Griffin to try our shot at redfish on the fly. Ryan is a fantastic guy and was very welcoming to us trout guys!”
To check out more from WildFly Productions, please click here.
Fly fishing (and more) with MeatEater! MeatEater has announced Das Boat — a new fishing show that will take place throughout the U.S.
From MeatEater:
“The first MeatEater original fishing series is here, finally. One boat, five fisheries, ten anglers, 2500 miles…unlimited bad ideas. The first episode of Das Boat will air on August 15th at 11am MST right here on YouTube, with new episodes coming out every Thursday. Check out how Honda Marine is powering Das Boat here: http://bit.ly/2TyWKgr”
To check out more from MeatEater, please click here.
Alf!
Southern Culture on the Fly has just dropped a new issue, and this one is full of the character that makes S.C.OF. one of the more unique rags out there. Some great smallmouth bass action and features on fly fishing art stand out.
To check out the new issue of Southern Culture on the Fly, please click here.
This vintage fly fishing action never gets old! These are the true pioneers.
From Costa:
“Vintage IGFA Video from the video library at International Game Fish Association, presented by Costa Sunglasses. Fly fishing the Keys with legendary fly fishing anglers; it just doesn’t get any better.”
To check out more from Costa, please click here.
Beautiful wild trout in Pennsylvania in a new video from Allegheny Native.
From the video makers:
“This video embodies what we go through every time we try to film a video. Our best days of fishing are ALWAYS when we leave the camera in the car. But we still do the best we can do, try to grind it out and make the best of the day that we can. Here is one of those days.”
To check out more from Allegheny Native, please click here.
Simms® Unveils New Women’s Waders for Fall 2019 – Made for Women Who Fish, by Women Who Fish
Additions to the G3 and Freestone lines feature new side-zip design, fit, and technical features specifically for female anglers
Bozeman, Mont. – August 9, 2019 – Women’s interest and involvement in the sport of fishing is growing and becoming more of a focus in the industry. Simms® continues its commitment to providing innovation and product specifically designed to suit female anglers with the introduction of the new Women’s G3 Guide Z Stockingfoot and Women’s Freestone® Z Stockingfoot waders.
These women specific waders are made for women, by women who fish. The new designs feature a TiZip® waterproof side zipper for easy on/off capabilities and streamside relief. Building on Simms’ legacy of apparel built to fish hard and last season after season, the G3 Guide Z Stockingfoot Wader features Simms’ patented front and back leg seam to provide greater mobility, fit, and durability. Also featured in both new styles are anatomically correct left and right stockingfeet for better fit, as well as Simms’ built-in Gravel Guards to keep debris out.
“The women’s side zip wader evolved because we were trying to fill a need of fit and function specifically for women”, said Simms Product Development Manager, Patricia Beernink. “We patterned it to fit a women’s body, then built and tested it extensively. Our talented development team is always pushing the envelope on innovation and we got this one right!”
The new Women’s G3 Guide Z Stockingfoot Wader, made in Bozeman, Montana, was designed with the avid female angler in mind, featuring a durable and incredibly breathable three-layer GORE-TEX® upper and four-layer GORE-TEX in the legs and seat. For improved fit, mobility and comfort, the adjustable suspenders are anchored at the waist to allow a customized fit as well as a waist-high conversion for warmer days on the water. The new waders also feature a removeable Tippet Tender pocket and a front zipper pocket for storage, as well as a reach through micro-fleece lined zippered hand warmer pocket. The anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet are also treated with an anti-microbial finish. The new Women’s G3 Guide Z is available in 13 sizes (small through XXL; with short, full and tall options) and will retail for $649.95.
The Women’s Freestone Z Stockingfoot Wader is built with a breathable and durable four-layer Toray® QuadraLam fabric throughout and the waterproof TiZip side zipper allows easy on/off capabilities. The suspenders on the Freestone Z are anchored at the waist and are adjustable for an improved fit. For storage and hand warmth, the new wader features a zippered micro-fleece lined hand warmer pocket as well as a front zippered chest pocket. The new Women’s Freestone Z brings women into the sport of fishing and into the Simms family for life. Available in 11 sizes (small through XXL; with short and full options), the Women’s Freestone Z will retail for $379.95.
To see the new Fall 2019 Collection in its entirety, or for more information, visit your local Simms retailer or www.SimmsFishing.com.
About Simms
Established in 1980, Simms is the preeminent manufacturer of waders, outerwear and technical fishing apparel and accessories. Simms’ 80,000 square foot facility in Bozeman is the country’s only manufacturing facility for fishing waders. The full line of Simms gear is available at specialty and large format retailers across North America as well as www.simmsfishing.com. Join the #FishItWell conversation on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter at @SimmsFishing.
SAN PEDRO, Belize (August 8, 2019) — Tres Pescados Fly Shop is pleased to announce another successful year of its annual Tres Pescados Slam fishing tournament. The 11th Annual Tres Pescados Slam welcomed guests to Belize to compete in an upbeat and easygoing tournament that had one objective above all else: promoting conservation and ecological sustainability in Belize.
This year the Tres Pescados Slam raised $15,000 for the Coalition for Sustainable Fisheries, which will support the efforts to ban the destructive gillnets that plague the region’s waters.
“There is a tremendous effort underway in Belize to ban gillnets, and the Tres Pescados Slam is proud once again to donate the proceeds of our event to the Coalition for Sustainable Fisheries,” said Wil Flack, owner of Tres Pescados. “I would like to thank all our anglers and sponsors for continuing to support sustainable sport fishing in Belize. This event continues to promote conservation and education so that future generations can enjoy bonefish, permit, and tarpon.”
The success of the tournament is largely due to the generosity of its sponsors, and the Tres Pescados Slam enjoyed support from Simms, YETI, the Belize Tourism Board, Oceana, Costa Sunglasses, Scott Fly Rods, Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures, Tropic Air, El Pescador, Victoria House, Belize Coastal Zone Management Authority & Institute, Holiday Hotel, Marcelo, Belize Permit Club, Hatch Outdoors, and Tangelo.
The fishing at the tournament did not disappoint. “A few slams, some big tarpon, and several permit made for a great tournament,” noted Flack. A total of 11 teamsparticipated this year. Team GoFish (Zach Kolanda and Abbie Marin) took first place, team Excalibur (Rob Block and Parnell Coc) took second place, and team Redhouse (John and Tina Winkler, Darrel Smith) came in third.
Next year’s Tres Pescados Slam will take place July 15-18, 2020 in San Pedro, Belize.
About Tres Pescados Fly Shop:
Located in San Pedro, Tres Pescados Fly Shop is Belize’s only full-service fly shop, offering guided fly fishing trips and charters throughout the country as well as rentals, rod repairs, and a full retail selection. For more information about Tres Pescados, please visit their website and find them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Big carp in Canada!
From The New Fly Fisher:
“Host Colin McKeown joins guide Glen Hale to fly fish for big carp in the Bay of Quinte in Ontario. Stealth and long casts are key to success in this exciting and informative show.”
To check out more from The New Fly Fisher, please click here.
One of the wildest events in the Amazon — a sabalo run and dorado feeding frenzy!
From Tsimane Lodges:
“Sabalo feeding frenzy!
Those who have visited Tsimane during a sabalo run know how thrilling it is to watch this event unfold. Not only is the run of fish itself impressive, but watching the dorado attack these fish is one of the wildest events a fly angler can encounter. Learn more about this destination: https://tsimanelodge.com/
And for inquiries, please email: info@tsimanelodge.com
Video: Daniel Coimbra”
From The Fly Shop:
Redding, California, August 6, 2019: The Fly Shop is thrilled to announce the hiring of Erik Argotti as an international fly fishing destination specialist.
Erik brings decades of fly fishing and travel experience to The Fly Shop. He spent 13 years guiding all over the Bristol Bay area of Alaska, chasing kings and silvers in tidewater as well as guiding fly-out fishing excursions to fisheries in and around Katmai National Preserve. He also guided in Argentina for a couple of seasons and spent months traveling, exploring and fly fishing many of the rivers, lakes and streams throughout the Patagonia region.
Erik spent two summers guiding trout anglers on the Kamchatka Peninsula of Russia, and has lived and traveled extensively throughout New Zealand, pursuing both island’s wary browns and rainbows in crystal clear water.
He enjoys chasing steelhead in British Columbia and Alaska, as well as on the Olympic Peninsula, and is an avid photographer, having photos published in Fly Fish Journal, Fly Rod and Reel, Orvis, Pheasants Forever, and other sporting publications.
“Ultimately, my intense passion for fly fishing, travel, and photography are lifelong desires and I look forward to bringing my experiences to The Fly Shop team and helping fly fishers navigate the world of international fly fishing travel.”
– Erik Argotti argotti@theflyshop.com
Exploring distant lands (and waters) in a classic from the Fly Fishing Nation.
From the Fly Fishing Nation:
“A film that documents a journey of saltwater fly fishing exploration in the islands of the Socotra archipelago. Quite simply a piscatorial adventure into the unknown.”
To check out more from the Fly Fishing Nation, please click here.
The future of Bristol Bay is not looking good, and we all need to take as much action as possible. Please follow the link below to send a message to Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski. Take about two minutes. Your voice is needed.
CLICK HERE.
Taking on Florida Keys tarpon in a video from Outside TV.
From Outside TV:
“Islamorada is known as the ‘Sportfishing Capital of the World’ and rumor has it that it hosts the largest fishing fleet per square mile than anywhere else in the world.”
To check out more from Outside TV, please click here.
Researchers at UMass Amherst are seeking support from saltwater anglers, and survey participants have a chance to win a Patagonia StormFront Backpack.
From the researchers:
UMass Amherst researchers are recruiting survey participants to better understand angler interactions with sharks. Have you ever lost your catch to a shark? Or maybe you’ve never seen a shark while fishing? Either way, we want to hear from you.
All saltwater anglers, 18+ years, who have fished in North America are eligible.
Participants will be invited to enter a drawing for a Patagonia StormFront Backpack.
To learn more, go to: http://bit.ly/swangler
In search of Atlantic salmon in Swedish Lapland in a new fly fishing film short.
From Catch Me Flyfishing:
“Four friends decide to go salmon fishing against all odds to the northern part of Sweden called Lapland. Their dream is to catch mighty salmon on the fly and release it.”
To check out more from Catch Me Flyfishing, please click here.
IDAHO FALLS, IDAHO (August 1, 2019) – RIO continues to develop award-winning fly lines, and the new Technical Trout series is no different. It recently won Best New Fly Line at the European Fishing Tackle Trade Exhibition (EFTTEX), and it is now available to anglers hunting picky trout anywhere.
The InTouch Technical Trout line is designed to present small flies with perfect presentation to trout at range. Built on RIO’s ultra-low stretch ConnectCore for maximum performance, it has a long front taper that has no problem turning over 12 to 18-foot leaders and delivers flies with great delicacy and accuracy. The extended back taper and long head length increases loop control when casting a lot of line and is a real asset for making second shot casts at distance. This InTouch line is offered in a sky blue/peach/ivory color combination, includes RIO’s SureFire and Easy ID features and is available in WF3F to WF6F sizes from RIO dealers or online for $99.99
In addition, RIO offers this line in its premium series with the same taper and weight design but built on a regular braided multifilament core. In this series the line is available in 3-weight through 6-weight sizes in both weight forward and double taper options. Both line types are a sky blue/peach color and have a MSRP of $79.99
In summary, RIO’s InTouch Technical Trout and regular Technical Trout line is ideal for fishing dries, nymphs, soft hackles, and emergers to tricky fish at distances.
Click here to watch the video and learn more.
About RIO Products:
RIO is a pioneer in developing fly lines, leaders and tippet material to enhance fly fishing experiences across the globe. Offering premium fly lines for both freshwater and saltwater fishing applications, RIO consistently utilizes field experience and scientific testing to create the best products on the market for anglers. Founded 20 years ago in the mountains of Idaho, RIO continues to develop innovative products, design revolutionary tapers and refine performance-driven fly line technologies. For more information about RIO Products, please visit www.rioproducts.com. Connect with us through Facebook, Instagram, and Vimeo.
As mentioned in previous posts, William Perry Pendley has been named acting director for the Bureau of Land Management. This is of grave concern. Pendley has been very public about his beliefs about public lands — he thinks they are unconstitutional and should be sold. This is code red. Please take quick and easy action at the link below to voice your opposition to this appointment.
CLICK HERE.
Angler, climber, surfer, and businessman, Yvon Chouinard, is known for many things. His climbing accomplishments in Yosemite in the 1960s forever cemented his legacy in the outdoors world. As an angler, he is largely (yet quietly) responsible for increased popular commitments to catch and release fly fishing, public lands, and wild fish. And as a businessman, Chouinard founded Patagonia, Black Diamond, and One Percent for the Planet while demonstrating how business can be used as a tool for meaningful social change and environmental activism. All of this is enough to fill volumes of books of stories, advice, and more. However, despite an impressive (and abbreviated) listing of accomplishments above, Chouinard is also largely known for his wisdom, and this as much as anything else is what gives enormous value to his new book, Some Stories: Lessons from the Edge of Business and Sport.
Chouinard states that, “When a man reaches a certain age, he begins to measure his wealth, not in terms of how much he as accumulated, but in how much time he has left.” At the expense of putting words in his mouth, for Chouinard, the value of time comes with the experiences that can be had and wisdom that can be found with that time.
For Yvon Chouinard, a man with many accomplishments under his belt, process comes before anything, and experience in the outdoors has the power to be formative and even transformative. In the film 180° South, he talks about the meaning of process when describing what some might think of as the biggest achievement in the outdoors — climbing Mount Everest. He states, “The whole purpose of planning something like Everest is to effect some sort of spiritual and physical gain, and if you compromise the process, you’re an asshole when you start out and you’re an asshole when you get back.” For Chouinard, getting to the top is not the point. And his perspective on such things is one of the reasons he is so beloved in the outdoors. Other outdoorsmen have accomplished more. As anglers, climbers, and surfers, there are individuals in these pursuits that are far more skilled. And how often do we keep track of the founders and CEOs of businesses? I do not intend to undermine the accomplishments of such a skilled man whose feats will be forever noted among the outdoors community — it’s just that these achievements are overshadowed by his wisdom, moral lessons, and values. And for this reason, Chouinard’s new book, Some Stories: Lessons from the Edge of Business and Sport, is as good as gold.
This hardback, 464-page book is filled with stories, life lessons, reflections, and even letters and a poem. And with a generous amount of photos, this book offers more inspiration than can be found almost anywhere. This truly is a special book and one that can be read, revisited, and cherished for many years. It is a book about a man, but it is really about all of us — how we ought to live, what is of value, and what the natural world really means. After all, isn’t this what we are really focused on when we head off into the wilderness?
To learn more about Some Stories: Lessons from the Edge of Business and Sport, please click here.
— Tim Harden
Disclosure: This publisher is in a professional relationship with the Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
From Save Bristol Bay:
ANCHORAGE, AK – Just weeks after the U.S. EPA released comments critical of Pebble’s Draft Environmental Impact Statement, the agency today withdrew the 2014 Proposed Determination. If finalized, the Proposed Determination would have safeguarded the Bristol Bay region – the world’s greatest wild salmon ecosystem – from the proposed Pebble mine and other large-scale industrial development by placing limits on the amount of mine waste that can be disposed of in Bristol Bay’s rivers and wetlands.
In response to today’s step by EPA, sportsmen and women issued the following statement:
Chris Wood, CEO, Trout Unlimited (Washington, D.C.)
“Sixty million fish can’t be wrong. That’s how many sockeye were sustainably harvested from Bristol Bay last year. That’s the resource that is being put at risk by this unjustified and fundamentally boneheaded decision. We have spent $18 billion on unsuccessful efforts to try and recover salmon in the Columbia and Snake Rivers, meanwhile Alaska’s resource is outstanding and all we have to do to keep it intact is have the good sense to leave it alone. We will look at all options—including litigation—to protect Bristol Bay from large-scale industrial mining.”
Brian Kraft, president, Katmai Service Providers and owner of Alaska Sportsman’s Lodge (Anchorage/Igiugig, AK)
“Withdrawing an action that would have protected the rivers and wetlands that dozens of businesses depend on hinders American jobs and economic growth and is an attack on hardworking families. The proposed determination was supported by thousands of Alaskans and millions of Americans. Our state elected officials need to step in and make sure the best interests of Alaskans, not a foreign owned mining company, are being put first.”
Nanci Morris Lyon, owner, Bear Trail Lodge (King Salmon, AK)
“This action directly undermines Alaskan businesses like mine and favors a foreign mining company. It is absurd that the 404(c) action, that was widely supported by so many Americans, is being walked back for such baseless reasons. Now, more than ever, is time for Alaska’s elected officials to stand up for the families and communities that are out here and make sure the resources we depend on are around in the future.”
Nelli Williams, Alaska director, Trout Unlimited (Anchorage, AK)
“This foolish decision fails on all accounts. It neglects EPA’s responsibility to protect human health and clean water, it ignores science-based criticism of Pebble’s permit review by their own scientists and other agencies, and it is out of touch with the priorities of Alaskans and sportsmen and women. It’s common sense to limit mine waste disposal in a place as important as Bristol Bay. It’s an all hands-on deck situation to safeguard this important American asset and the thousands of jobs it supports.”
From Costa Sunglasses:
Miami, FL – Costa Sunglasses has renewed its Platinum Sponsorship of Project Permit, a nearly 10-year project that is improving permit conservation in Florida. Project Permit began in 2010 as a dart-tagging program. The initial goal was to get a handle on overall permit movements in Florida, to answer the question: Are the permit in the Florida Keys the same fish that anglers fish for in other parts of the state? Project Permit has since expanded to include acoustic telemetry to obtain more specific data on permit movements and habitat use. Data from Project Permit were instrumental in Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s creation of the Special Permit Zone and the expansion of the SPZ’s permit spawning season closure to include the month of April.
“At Costa we believe in protecting our watery world and utilizing science to help inform fisheries management needs,” said Andrew Cox, Saltwater Community Leader for Costa Sunglasses. “The work BTT is doing along with the engagement from the fishing community on catch and tag retrieval data is providing necessary information to allow the fishery to thrive.”
To date, more than 1,000 permit have been tagged with dart tags, and 150 permit have been tagged with acoustic transmitters. The acoustic tracking portion of the study, originally designed as a three-year study but extended to five years, is now in its final year of tagging. Efforts in 2019 will be focused on the Upper Keys, with the aim of determining the extent to which permit migrate north of the Keys to areas where the species is not as well protected. Project Permit will also continue to examine the permit spawning movements between the flats and offshore wrecks and reefs.
“We thank Costa for its continuing partnership and steadfast support of Project Permit,” said BTT President and CEO Jim McDuffie. “Tracking data and other information from this study will inform future conservation efforts and improvements to the management of Florida’s permit fishery.”
(Photos available upon request)
*About Costa
As the first manufacturer of color-enhancing all-polarized sunglass lenses, Costa combines superior lens technology with unparalleled fit and durability. Still handcrafted in Florida, Costa has made the highest quality, best performing sunglasses and prescription sunglasses (Rx) for outdoor enthusiasts since 1983, and now its product portfolio includes optical frames. Costa’s growing cult-brand status ties directly to its mission to provide high quality products with a focus on sustainability and conservation as the company works hard to protect the waters it calls home. From the use of sustainable materials to its Kick Plastic initiative, IndiFly Foundation and strong partnership with shark research organization OCEARCH, Costa encourages people to help protect the Earth’s natural resources in any way they can. Find out more on Costa’s website and join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter at @CostaSunglasses.*
About Bonefish & Tarpon Trust
Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s mission is to conserve bonefish, tarpon and permit—the species, their habitats and the larger fisheries they comprise. As a science-based organization, BTT pursues this mission across the southeastern US, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean through research, conservation, education and advocacy.
GTs in the Maldives in an action-packed short video from Aardvark McLeod. Nothing like giant trevally.
To check out more from Aardvark McLeod, please click here.
A vintage IGFA video presented by Costa features some old school footage of fly fishing for marlin. Great to look back at these old videos.
To check out more from Costa, please click here.
From Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:
New BLM Leader Is Advocate for Sale of Public Lands
*William Perry Pendley, an outspoken proponent of selling off public lands and waters,
has been appointed BLM policy head, charting management of 245 million acres*
WASHINGTON – Backcountry Hunters & Anglers bluntly criticized an administration decision to elevate a well-known advocate of the sale of public lands to the top policy position at the Bureau of Land Management.
William Perry Pendley, an attorney with a long and established track record of supporting the sale of millions of acres of U.S. public lands and waters, has assumed a top position at the BLM, according to the agency’s own organization chart. Pendley’s ascension follows his appointment as BLM deputy director of policy and programs only a week ago. Since taking office, President Trump has failed to nominate a BLM director for confirmation by the Senate, leaving the public lands agency to be managed by a series of acting directors and temporary appointees for more than two years.
Land Tawney, BHA president and CEO, offered outspoken criticism of Pendley’s appointment.
“William Pendley has made a name for himself by relentlessly and brazenly attacking our American system of public lands and waters and advocating for the sale of this priceless American legacy,” said Tawney. “Mr. Pendley is not someone who should be entrusted with the management of our public estate. The fox has taken control of the hen house, and he is poised to systematically dismantle the very resources he is charged with overseeing.
“The Trump administration has stated over and over again its support for our public lands, for our fish and wildlife populations, and for the outdoor traditions cherished by millions of citizens,” Tawney continued. “Actions speak louder than words.”
Until late last year Pendley was president of the conservative law firm Mountain States Legal Foundation. He has authored books titled Warriors for the West: Fighting Bureaucrats, Radical Groups, and Liberal Judges on America’s Frontier; War on the West: Government Tyranny on America’s Great Frontier and It Takes A Hero: The Grassroots Battle Against Environmental Oppression. In 2016 he wrote a National Review column calling on the federal government to sell Western public lands.
The news of Pendley’s ascension at BLM follows a speech two weeks ago by President Trump touting his conservation record since taking office.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voicefor our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.
Learn more about BHA:
Visit our website.
Connect with us on Facebook.
Follow us on Twitter.
Find us on Instagram.
Perhaps more than any other anglers, trout anglers are often obsessed with the aesthetics of trout and nearly everything connected to the pursuit of them. For such anglers, the new Abel VAYA reel will certainly attract their attention.
The Abel VAYA reel has a beautiful native cutthroat finish with fly engravings that honor the beauty of cutties. Among features, this U.S.A.-made reel has a partially-ported to cut down on weight, a large arbor for quick retrieve and less line memory, and a “5-disc alternating carbon/stainless steel drag stack.”
The Abel VAYA reel comes in three sizes — 4/5, 5/6, and 7/8 — and will cost $495. To learn more about the new VAYA reel series from Abel, please click here.
More dorado action from the Bolivian Amazon!
From Tsimane Lodges:
“June dorado fly fishing action in Bolivia! The first months of the season have been thrilling to say the least. Another new video from Untamed Angling highlights some of the great fishing we’ve experienced so far this season.”
To check out more from Tsimane Lodges, please click here.
Fat Tire has launched a new film series that brings together enthusiasts from different sports to emphasize the importance of public lands.
From New Belgium Brewing:
“We’re not that different in the outdoors. Leland, a fly fisher, and Tyler, a whitewater kayaker, learn how even though they use rivers in totally different ways, they can come together to protect public lands. Fat Tire is donating up to $250,000 to organizations protecting our public lands. Visit http://www.publiclandsforall.com and share their full video to direct donations from Fat Tire to American Whitewater and National Wildlife Federation.”
Credit: The Fly Fishing Nation From The Fly Shop:
The Fly Shop® is very excited to announce their newest addition to their award winning portfolio of Signature Destinations – The Kola Reserve.
The Rivers of the Kola Reserve are the most exciting additions to Atlantic salmon fishing on the Kola Peninsula since the Ponoi.
Introducing the Rivers of the Kola Reserve
The Fly Shop® recently joined a cadre of professional fly fishing pioneers led by Stephan Dombaj of Fly Fishing Nation on a mission to determine whether rumors of the existence of two phenomenal, lost and completely private Atlantic Salmon fisheries on the northern coast of the Kola Peninsula were true. Adding to the intrigue and speculation was the fact that both rivers flow north into the Barents Sea at a point only slightly southeast of the trophy-laden Yokanga and to the northwest of the prolific Ponoi. They are dead-center in the heart of a region famous for trophy-sized Atlantic salmon, numbers of grilse, and large Osenka (fall run) Atlantics. The rivers are completely private and have been designated catch-and-release, fly fishing only fisheries that will remain shielded from poaching, commercial harvest, and exploitation.
Credit: The Fly Fishing Nation Minutes after the helicopter arrival from Murmansk at the recently completed River Camp, the talented reconnaissance team was dressed for the occasion, had their rods rigged, and was launching spey casts toward the far bank of the home pool. It quickly became apparent that the river harbors an impressive run of trophy Atlantic salmon. The fish were acrobatic, dime-bright, full of fight, and our first one to grass was estimated to tip the scales at over 8 kilos. The rest of our scouting week proved the rivers were the real deal and had a healthy population of the large Atlantic Salmon typical of the North Coast of the Kola.
Credit: Matt Harris Members of the exploratory team of anglers stayed on for the next month, filing daily reports on their successes and recording the entire, incredible experience on film. They were joined occasionally by members of the family, owners of the Kola Reserve, who were active participants in the angling survey.
Simply expressed, what they found left little room for exaggeration!Both rivers are cut from the same cloth as the other magnificent Atlantic salmon fisheries in the northern Kola. They share the same large fish, as well as grilse and Osenka.
An autumn intel-gathering expedition is planned in 2019 and will include another experienced team to vet the late season fishery.
The Kola Reserve was purchased by the family in 2018. Both drainages and fisheries have been set aside in perpetuity with the goal of preserving and protecting this part of Russia’s pristine, untouched wilderness while adding to some of the best fishing for Atlantic salmon found in the world. The rivers of the Kola Reserve flow north into the Barents Sea and, like the Kharlovka, Yokanga, Varzina and other regional fisheries, harbor some of the finest Atlantic salmon on Earth. Each of the rivers appears designed by Mother Nature to test both fish and fishermen. They have remained beyond human impaction and are wild, undisturbed, and free-flowing. The Kola Reserve rivers flow steep and fast, with perfect holding areas for swinging flies in between white water. These magnificent salmon have faced some of the most rugged obstacles and conditions imaginable on their annual spawning pilgrimage and have evolved into what many experts feel are among the very largest and strongest strains of their species.
Fishing the Kola Reserve is not for everyone. Both breathtaking rivers flow through steep canyons carved from stone before entering the sea. They are exceptionally picturesque, but remember you will have to wade the same terrain that forced the salmon to evolve big and strong. Bring your wading staffs and wear your cleats! What makes these two rivers unique and separates them from most other Atlantic salmon fisheries on the north coast of the Kola though, is their size. They are not massive, but rather have an intimate character. Neither river is navigable; all the angling is done while wading, not from boats. Small dories have been positioned on some pools to allow safe and easy crossing of the rivers. Competent spey casters will appreciate the ability to successfully wade, cast, and systematically cover the 3 or 4 pools in each beat and to be able to battle these fish from the shoreline.
The 2020 inaugural season at the Kola Reserve will incorporate what are expected to be the eleven most productive weeks of the Atlantic salmon run and only eight anglers will be hosted at the Camp (far fewer than the number of expansive beats on the two rivers). Guests will be transported by helicopter from Murmansk to Camp where they will be surrounded by a deluxe property with accommodations that will challenge even the most well established camps on the Kola for supremacy.
While there may be some wrinkles to be ironed out in the first season, no excuses will have to be made for a nearly completed, top-tier lodge, warm, spacious, single-occupancy duplex cabins with en-suite baths, queen beds, superb cuisine, an open bar, and other first-class amenities that contradict the remote, arctic environment.
No expense will have been spared to ensure the most successful and comfortable angling holiday possible. The Kola Reserve has also assembled a remarkably skilled first-year guide staff with the help of The Fly Shop® (with more than 40 years of experience outfitting lodges and camps from Kamchatka to Tierra del Fuego), Matt Harris (Legendary Photographer) and the Fly Fishing Nation (one of Europe’s most experienced team of fly fishing trailblazers). The team will be dialed in.
Some guests will be transported each day to the most distant angling on one of two rivers by helicopter. For convenience, practicality, and to avoid any weather delays home river anglers will be quickly and comfortably driven by 4WD ATVs to the most productive of the spectacular pools, runs and tail-outs.
Pricing for the 2020 Inaugural season at the Kola Reserve will be temporarily reduced as an introductory incentive and those anglers will be given priority in the allocation of space in subsequent seasons.
This may be the best opportunity in decades to get in on the ground floor, and visit what promises to be among the top echelon Atlantic salmon lodges on Earth!
To learn more about the Kola Reserve or to inquire about 2020 introductory pricing and rod dates contact the Kola Reserve’s exclusive North American agent:
The Fly Shop®4140 Churn Creek Road
Redding, California 96002
(800) 669-3474 / (530) 222-3555 Fax: (530) 222-3572 travel@theflyshop.com / www.theflyshop.com
A good book has value for various reasons. A great book inspires. Wild Trout by Javier Urbanski and Isaias Miciu is a book that demonstrates all that a great book ought to be. Compelling writing, stunning photography, and complete in every way, Wild Trout is an impressive work that every trout angler ought to own — especially those who have been to or have a fondness for Patagonia.
Javier Urbanski is an Argentine fly fishing guide and fish biologist — a great combination. And Isaias Miciu was born in Uruguay and now lives in San Martin de los Andes — a beautiful mountain town in Northern Patagonia. Neither men are ones to boast, and Miciu almost seems disinterested in any form of self promotion — rare among photographers, especially in fly fishing, in this day and age. He is, however, a bit of a legend in Patagonia and is known for his photography that largely looks at life in Patagonia — covering everything from gauchos to fly fishing.
Yet despite their low profile in the fly fishing industry in the U.S., Urbanski and Miciu have both achieved absolute mastery in their respective fields, and Wild Trout is a testament to the excellence and expertise that men have.
Wild Trout is intended to capture, with with writing and images, the trout of Patagonia. Written in Spanish and English, the book details all aspects of trout — from their biological characteristics to their diet to their habitat. Those less interested in science shouldn’t be turned away — the book is science-rich but not science-heavy, and the generous amount of images loaded in this large hardback book is enough to captivate any reader for hours on end.
Wild Trout is indeed largely a tribute to a fish species in a certain place, but after all, anglers from states with great trout fishing have traveled thousands of miles to encounter the trout of Patagonia. This book honors these fish but also the anglers who hold the wild trout of Patagonia in their hearts. We travel there to only leave the fish and bring home the memories and feelings. This book aids us with this.
Presently, there is no distribution of Wild Trout in the United States; however, it is worth pursuing copies nevertheless. To purchase Wild Trout, contact Javier Urbanski directly at info@expoflyfishing.com.
Distant Bay – Trailer from Machado Outdoor Films on Vimeo.
The giants of Jurassic Lake in Argentina are the focus of “Distant Bay” — a new film with footage from Estancia Laguna Verde.
From the filmmakers:
“Last november I was filming “Distant Bay” at @estancialagunaverde accompanied by my friends and great fishermen Nick Reygaert, from New Zealand, Ole Frithjof Rogowski from Germany and Pato Churruarin from Argentine, this is an advance of the film that this year will be watched around the world in the RISE FLY FISHING FILM FESTIVAL 2019.”
To see more from Machado Outdoor Films, please click here.
Vintage footage of fly fishing in Alaska! Very cool old video …
From Costa:
“Vintage IGFA Video from the video library at International Game Fish Association, presented by Costa Sunglasses. A vintage Fly Fishing film from famed Bristol Bay, Alaska with huge Grayling and fish for every dry fly in the box.”
To check out more from Costa, please click here.
In The Salt has just released a new issue of their digital fly fishing magazine, and there is some great saltwater content from around the globe in this one. Among many great features, Christiaan Pretorius writes about his experience of managing Abaco Lodge in the Bahamas. Enjoyed seeing Will Graham’s photos of this trip, as The Venturing Angler was also there that week, and the photos brought back memories.
To check out the new issue of In The Salt, please click here.
2018 Drone Fly Fishing Reel from Waist Deep Media on Vimeo. If you like drone footage of beautiful fly fishing destinations, you’ll love this reel of aerial action from Waist Deep Media.
To check out more from Waist Deep Media, please click here.
SANTA CRUZ DE LA SIERRA, Bolivia (July 18, 2019) — Untamed Angling is pleased to announce the expansion of their operations into Cuba with El Faro Lodge.
Well-known for their lodges in Bolivia and Brazil, as well as their commitment to finding remote and pristine fly fishing destinations that offer world-class experiences unlike any other, Untamed Angling is excited to share Western Cuba with the angling world.
Backcountry flats, coral reefs, and expansive bluewater make these remote waters especially attractive for fly fishing and conventional angling. The Guanahacabibes Peninsula and its national park and biosphere reserve have been preserved for 40 years and offer world-class fishing for many flats and offshore species. The region is not only still wild and without fishing pressure, but it is also home to a unique mix of beaches, channels, mangroves, flats, and bluewater, thereby allowing anglers to take on different waters and experiences each day. El Faro Lodge will be the first and only beachfront fishing lodge in Cuba and will offer the first-class service and luxuries that Untamed Angling destinations are known for.
“We are very excited about this new destination in Cuba,” states Marcelo Pérez, CEO and founder of Untamed Angling. “This wild, beautiful, and huge national park and biosphere reserve offer anglers a wide variety of species and many diverse environments. This will be a new challenge and adventure that we are pleased to share with fellow anglers.”
As is with all of their destinations, Untamed Angling is deeply committed to protecting the ecosystem and preserving a way of life for the local community through sustainable fly fishing tourism. With their partners in Cuba, including the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust and Eckerd College, andCuban institutions, including CIM-UH, Guanahacabibes National Park, and the Center for Marine Research at the University of Havana (CIM-UH), Untamed Angling is actively supporting research programs and biological data collection to further understand the fishery and ecosystems.
El Faro Lodge will welcome its first clients for an exploratory season in May 2020.
About Untamed Angling:
Founded in 2001 by Marcelo Pérez, Untamed Angling takes a unique approach to destination fly fishing by combining fly fishing in exclusive areas with a significant social benefit to local populations and the preservation of natural resources.This model project allows Untamed Angling to explore the best areas for fishing while supporting local communities, cultures, and ecosystems. For more information about Untamed Angling, please visit their website. Also, learn more about El Faro Lodge on their website and on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Mending Lines from Fishpond USA on Vimeo.
Water is for fighting for, and with population booms, more water diversions, and other factors, Colorado is in for a tough battle.
From Fishpond:
“10 years ago, the Bruchez family had a meeting to discuss what needed to be done with their family ranch on the Colorado River. Water levels weren’t what they used to be, and the resources and systems they had relied on for generations were changing and disappearing at an unprecedented pace. They could either sell the ranch or fight to protect the land that had provided for them for years. They decided to fight. Now, Paul Bruchez has found another reason to ensure the water and land around him continue to provide for years to come.
Video: Hidden Woods Media”
To check out more from Fishpond, please click here.
Costa Sunglasses just dropped a new stoke video featuring some familiar faces. From Kemi Werner and Mark Healey to Wil Flack and Camille Egdorf (on the fly side), this video shows some of those we know and love as they pursue their passions on the water. The fly fishing footage comes from Belize at the Belize Permit Club.
To check out more from Costa, please click here.
Taking on trout in the creeks of Costa Rica!
From Backwater Fly Fishing:
“I got robbed shortly after moving to Costa Rica. I lost all my backpacking gear and a good portion of my fly gear as well. Since then I have made due with what I do have: health, a few fly rods, and a satisfied mind!”
To check out more from Backwater Fly Fishing, please click here.
LANDSICK from PMD Productions and Costa toured with The Fly Fishing Film Tour, and it is now available to watch online.
From The Fly Fishing Film Tour:
“For decades, Chuck Ragan seemed to be in constant motion, first touring with the influential punk band, Hot Water Music, and later as a solo artist. But in 2015, Ragan got his guide’s license and downshifted to life in Grass Valley to spend more time with his wife and young son, while putting clients on trout, steelhead, and bass in the Sierra foothills, along with stripers in the California Delta. LANDSICK from Costa del Mar and filmmaker Matt Devlin, is about the tension between life on the road and the water.”
To check out more from The Fly Fishing Film Tour, please click here.
And to check out more from PMD Productions, please click here.
This Is Fly is back with a new issue of their online magazine that covers content from all over the globe. From redfish in Virginia to Kayla Lockhart’s glorious permit experience in Mexico, the new issue (as always) is packed with great content.
To check out the new issue of This Is Fly, please click here.
Costa Rica has it all!
From Backwater Fly Fishing:
“Brad and Mike from Walton Rods came down and had an epic five day fishing session the first week of February. Trout, machaca, roosterfish and more were landed in different areas of the country. Overall it was an absolute epic adventure! Learn more about our tours at http://www.506outdoors.com.”
To check out more from Backwater Fly Fishing, please click here.
From the Yellow Dog Community & Conservation Foundation:
The effort to ban gillnets in Belizean fisheries has been a hotly debated subject for decades. With large sums of money exchanging hands (both legally and illegally), unfavorable political climates and private interest groups unable to reach a consensus, it’s no surprise that past initiatives for a ban have failed. However, the situation has changed and people are starting to fully realize a healthy fishery is much more than wildlife protection and reaches far into the Belizean economy affecting almost everyone’s lives.
The dangers gillnets pose to marine life are well documented and indiscriminately kill animals that are ensnared by them. Species that fall prey to gillnets are not only the marketable fish sought after by commercial fishermen but also permit, tarpon and bonefish, as well as sharks, manatees, sea turtles, and countless other marine species. Over the past year, environmental groups and fishermen in Belize have raised the alarm signaling a decline in fish stocks and that current gillnetting practices are unsustainable. But to outright ban gillnets means taking away a person’s livelihood who may depend on that net to support their family. With this in mind, a coalition of NGO’s, commercial and sport fisherman, lodge owners, guides and outfitters came together to find a solution. Out of the Coalition for Sustainable Fisheries meetings came the idea to train gillnetters in a different trade, an alternative sustainable livelihood. Sustainable shrimp harvesting was proposed, and now with a curriculum and new training, this trade is currently being implemented. Potential alternatives also included training in tourism, seaweed farming, entrepreneurial training, and business mentorship as well as continued education.
As the proposal stands with the Belizean Government, the Coalition for Sustainable Fisheries is committed to securing the necessary funds to transition licensed gillnetters to more sustainable ways of fishing or alternative livelihoods. Your donation is critical and will go directly to the Gillnet Transition Fund created by the Coalition for Sustainable Fisheries in Belize. Please forward this email to your email lists and be sure to post on social media. This is of critical importance, and we need your help to spread the word and help raise the necessary funds.
For the first time in the history of Belize, a gillnet ban is now possible. Bigger than that, if Belize continues to move forward with the legislation banning gillnets throughout its marine environment, they will be the first country in the world to do so.
The link below will take you to the Go Fund Me campaign where we are trying to raise $1 million. We are on the cusp of a landmark victory for Belizean fisheries and citizens. With the gillnet ban the closest it’s EVER been to succeeding, please play your part in pushing the initiative over the final hurdle. Any donation amount is welcomed and appreciated in addition to helping us spread awareness and information.
For more information please contact:
Dillon Gruber
Associate Director – Yellow Dog Community & Conservation Foundation
info@ydccf.org
YETI has announced a new product that ought to please many outdoors men and women. The new YETI Daytrip Lunch Bag is an insulated soft bag designed to keep food from getting soggy. Water resistant and featuring a leakproof liner, this pack also takes up less space than hard plastic containers. Also, it’s reusable. Good for cutting plastic consumption.
The new Daytrip Lunch Bag comes in three colors — Navy, Charcoal, and River Green and costs $79.99. It’s dimensions are 8.75” x 5.75″ x 8.75.”
To learn more about the YETI Daytrip Lunch Bag, please click here.
Dorado seem to get all of the attention in the Bolivian Amazon, but let’s not forget the mighty pacu!
From Tsimane Lodges:
“Pacu on the fly! June in the jungle is an exciting time to be on the water, and this past June brought exciting and explosive fly fishing action for pacu, dorado, and more.”
To check out more from Tsimane Lodges, please click here.
Gordonville, Pa. – July 8, 2019 – Bevanda®, a company rooted in quality and community, announces the addition of triple insulated beverage solutions. The new line of triple insulated products expands on the company’s existing lineup of powder-coated beverage containers.
Founded by brothers seeking to provide beverage container solutions for their community, Bevanda has expanded its product line to cater to outdoor enthusiasts who are committed to finding alternatives to single-use products. The new line of stainless steel, triple insulated products are available in four sizes – 14-ounce mug, 22-ounce water bottle, 40-ounce water bottle and gallon jug.
The 14-ounce mug offers a shatterproof slide lid and is available in four colors – white, navy, surf and coral. The 22-ounce and 40-ounce bottles have a wider mouth opening to accommodate ice and come with a stainless steel lid. The bottle options also have a straw lid available as an accessory. The bottles are also available in white, navy, surf and coral.
The gallon jug offers a bulk beverage solution for those working or playing outside for extended periods of time. The triple insulated technology helps keep beverages colder (or hotter) longer and alleviates condensation on the exterior of the bottle. Featuring the same new colors – white, navy, surf and coral – the gallon jug is a great addition to Bevanda’s size options.
“Our business started with a desire to create sustainable beverage containers for our local community,” said Leon Fisher, CEO of Bevanda. “Our local community responded, as did the outdoor community, which has led us to offering new insulation technology and the added benefit of our small-batch printing solutions.”
In addition to the new triple insulated technology, Bevanda is also the leader in custom beverage solutions. Bevanda has an in-house UV printing process, which allows the ability to offer unique colors and custom printing on the 22-ounce and 40-ounce bottles, without minimum quantity restrictions. Printing solutions are available as full or partial wraps and include everything from custom colors to simple logo printing.
For more information on the new product line and Bevanda’s full product offering, visit BevandaProducts.com.
About Bevanda
Founded by two entrepreneurial brothers, Bevanda focuses on making quality products for a sustainable life on the go. Hard work, integrity, family – these are the values Bevanda is built on, and are at the core of this family-owned business based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. In-house UV printing and a range of unique colors and sizes mean countless customizable opportunities to design a Bevanda that speaks to you. No matter your pursuit or passion, Bevanda lets you lead your life on the go, more sustainably.
Some sweet permit fly fishing action in a new video from the Belize Permit Club (made by Will Phelps and Bryan Gregson Photography).
From the Belize Permit Club:
“‘We wake up every day, and our sole focus is catching a permit on the fly.’ In a new video, Wil Flack and crew give a glimpse into what the Belize Permit Club is all about. Follow Wil and the team as they fly fish for permit on the flats of Belize.”
To check out more from the Belize Permit Club, please click here.
Trout — not the first fish you might think of when it comes to Costa Rica, but the Central American country does have good trout fishing in the mountain creeks. Nice video.
To check out more from Backwater Fly Fishing, please click here.
Taking on Florida with a 5 weight!
From Estrada Art Films:
“Jump in the truck with Eric Estrada, Jameson Redding, and Jonathan Jones as they fished their way around central to south Florida.”
To check out more from Estrada Art Films, please click here.
Sage rod innovation seems to reach new heights year after year, and it’s almost routine for Sage to improve upon graphite technology and rod design and performance. Yet despite the progress, it’s common that rod junkies will name one particular rod from way back that they wish was still in production. For example, the 9-foot 6-inch 6 weight XP is frequently sought after in forums and on eBay, and for me, the 9-foot 4 and 5 weight SLT rods were my favorite Sage trout rods of all time. That is no longer the case.
Admittedly, I didn’t pay much attention when Sage announced the new TROUT LL rod. We posted the news on The Venturing Angler, and that was that. I have a 5 weight Sage ONE and X, and MODs and other rods perfectly fill the trout quiver. I assumed the TROUT LL would suit some anglers but wouldn’t be a rod I would care too much about. Getting on the water, I rigged the rod and threw a few casts to get the line out and knew immediately that this rod is something special. In fact, within no time, I determined, at least for my liking, the TROUT LL is the best Sage trout rod of all time. The SLT is now for the Sage museum (if there’s such a thing at HQ), and the TROUT LL is now the rod worthy of my love and devotion.
The TROUT LL is described by Sage as a medium action dry fly rod. My somewhat impatient run and gun style of trout fishing — largely now from drift boats and rafts — generally lends itself better to a faster rod. I also tend to spend most days on the water fishing tailwaters in the freezing cold to avoid crowds. Nymphs often get the call in such conditions. Sage R&D design engineer Peter Knox used the words “delicate touch” when describing the style of fishing with this rod, so I simply assumed it might be perfect for the Ranch on the Henry’s Fork but maybe not chucking double nymph rigs on the Lower Sacramento River. And while Sage designed this rod for a slower, smooth cast and gentle delivery, experimenting with this rod revealed it is ideal for many on-the-water applications.
We fished the 9-foot 5 weight TROUT LL with everything from smaller dries to terrestrials to terrestrials with beadhead droppers to small double nymph rigs with indicators. We cast the rod in close quarters and attempted picking up large amounts of line from a fast-moving raft. The TROUT LL was perfect and performed flawlessly with everything we did.
I can already predict what some readers will say — it’s the angler, not the rod that performs. In this case it’s both. A new angler on the boat enthusiastically proclaimed that he was casting, controlling line, and fishing better with the rod. I watched as I rowed. His claim was very true.
This isn’t grandpa’s old dry fly rod. KonneticHD technology gives this rod strength and power. The measure of a good rod isn’t simply the cast — it’s also fish fighting and line control strength. Sage’s graphite technology is key with these needs and also brings enhanced accuracy due to less vibration with the blank.
In addition to the KonneticHD technology, Sage uses Fuji ceramic stripper guides and hard chromed snake guides, and a snub-nose, half-wells cork handle maximizes grip and feel. The rod comes in seven models from a 7-foot 9-inch 3 weight to a 9-foot 6 weight. The retail cost of the Sage TROUT LL is $800, and all rods come in a hard rod tube and with a lifetime warranty. The rods are a nice mahogany color (that even reminds me of the SLT).
Readers owe it to themselves to take this rod for a spin. Sage really does have something special here.
To learn more about the Sage TROUT LL, please click here.
–
Disclosure: Sage is in a professional relationship with The Venturing Angler. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
POULSBO, WASHINGTON (July 2, 2019) – Grundéns, producer of the world’s best fishing foul weather gear, today announces a new, rugged line of fishing rain gear in partnership with Gore-Tex®. 3 jackets and 2 bibs, all designed with specific fishing features and utilizing Gore-Tex’s® proprietary waterproof breathable technology, will provide exceptional wet weather protection to anglers in a variety of climates. Available to Grundéns top dealers and on Grundens.com in Fall 2019, the line will be widely available at all retailers in Spring of 2020.
“Gore-Tex® is synonymous with waterproof breathable protection and the Guaranteed to Keep You Drypromise. By combining our years of experience building apparel for one of the toughest jobs on the planet with their membrane technology, we’ve created an exceptional line of products,” says David Mellon, CEO of Grundéns. “All five styles are designed and built for a specific use and users will find that they are more rugged than what is currently offered for fishing and offer better performance than anything Grundéns has ever produced. There is a style and feature set that will appeal to nearly all anglers and we know our customers will be stoked with this line of products.”
The flagship products are the new Buoy X Gore-Tex® Jacket and Bib. Utilizing Gore-Tex® 3-layer laminate, the 150-denier face fabric is treated with C6 DWR for maximum water beading performance and avoids wet-out that can be created by contamination from oil, blood or fish slime. The result is the burliest Gore-Tex® garments ever produced for the fishing industry. The jacket includes neoprene shingled cuffs in the sleeves, dual zippered storage pockets, and a kill switch anchor among other fishing-centric features. The jacket will be available in three colors in sizes from small to 3XL and retail for $479. The bibs utilize Grundéns famous adjustable suspenders, a Grundéns removable belt, and water diversion system at the front lower closure. Available in two colors in sizes from small to 3XL, the bibs will retail for $449.
The workhorse fishing suit is the Downrigger Gore-Tex® Jacket and Bibs. Built with Gore-Tex® 2-layer laminate technology, the Downrigger maintains the same exterior ruggedness and water beading performance of the Buoy X but at a more affordable price and the next-to-skin comfort of a liner. The Downrigger jacket has a single chest pocket, an adjustable hook and loop cuff closure and a unique hood that handles wind and rain while running in boats without flopping around. Also available in three colors ranging from small to 3XL the Downrigger Gore-Tex® Jacket will retail for $349. The Downrigger Gore-Tex® bib has handwarmer pockets and lower leg zippers to facilitate easy on/off over bibs. Available in two colors in sizes from small to 3XL, the bibs will retail for $329.
The most portable jacket in the line is the packable Charter Gore-Tex® Jacket. Featuring Gore-Tex® Paclite® Plus, which provides an improved interior next-to-skin feel compared to classic Paclite® technology, the jacket is extremely breathable and highly packable. Gore-Tex® Paclite® Plus offers an improved interior next-to skin feel compared to classic Paclite® technology. The compressible jacket has engineered sleeves for range of motion, zippered hand warmer pockets, and adjustable hook and loop closure on the sleeves. Available in two colors including refraction camo glacier, the Charter Gore-Tex® Jacket will be available in sizes from small to 3XL and retail for $269.
According to Director of Product Design Curtis Graves, “Grundéns is the newest Gore-Tex® brand in fishing and our rainwear is super rugged and burly. Nobody else’s can compare. We have every confidence that when customers get their hands on these products, they’ll be exceptionally happy and won’t return to anything less rugged.”
For more information or to request a media interview with Grundéns CEO David Mellon or Director of Product Design Curtis Graves, please contact Cory Lowe at Cory.Lowe@BackboneMedia.net or 970-963-4873, ext. 127.
Golden dorado action in Bolivia!
From Tsimane Lodges:
“The 2019 season is underway at Tsimane, and the fly fishing for golden dorado has been incredible. Check out the sights and sounds of the Bolivian Amazon in a new video from Tsimane.”
To check out more from Tsimane Lodges, please click here.
A new issue of The Mission is now live, and Issue 16 follows anglers as they take on unique fish in distant lands. From golden mahseer in Bhutan to Niger barbs in Nigeria, this issue has some great content.
To check out the new issue of The Mission, please click here.
Laxardalur from In the Loop Magazine on Vimeo.
Big beautiful browns in Iceland in a new video from In the Loop Magazine.
From In the Loop Magazine:
“Laxa in Laxardalur is, perhaps, one of the most overlooked brown trout rivers in Iceland. It is, however, undoubtedly one of the best! This film was shot during 2,5 days of fishing on the river in early June 2019 – a hectic few days that provided spectacular fishing for brown trout averaging an impressive 60,5cm.
For more information, please refer to: icelandangling.com/”
A new video from Backwater Fly Fishing takes on SUP fly fishing for machaca in the Costa Rica jungle. A gnarly fish as they put it.
To check out more from Backwater Fly Fishing, please click here.
Ph: Will Phelps A tragedy took place last week in Belize when a fly fishing guide and a U.S. angler were murdered on the water. Lives were lost in a horrific manner, and their friends and families will endure suffering and sorrow for the rest of their lives. In some ways, this should be the beginning and the end of the story; however, regretfully, many news outlets and even fly fishing websites have taken the opportunity to use this tragedy to attract clicks or sensationalize the event.
Among others, the NY Post (often known for the reckless manner in which they report news and currently leads their website with a feature story that has Che Guevara’s hat and hair Photoshopped onto Mayor De Blasio’s face) used histrionic language from a political opposition party leader in Belize as the foundational points to then exaggerate the reality on the ground. It was an effort to score political points. This type of behavior from some in the media and politicians have become too familiar in recent years. I live near San Francisco, and when a young woman was killed in a rare isolated incident on the wharf (a tourism attraction) in 2015, the tragic death and unusual murder was used distastefully by the media and politicians for months. Some politicians still name the victim to this day to score political points that can’t be made as easily without evoking emotion to garner support for a political cause.
The fact is, violent crime at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco is rare. Likewise despite the use of hyperbolic language to describe life in Belize, anglers and many other tourists have enjoyed peaceful and crime-free trips to the country for decades. I have several friends who consider Belize their paradisaical home away from home.
Let’s look at the facts. Like any city or densely populated area, Belize is not crime free. There are areas of San Francisco I avoid, and there are areas that are ideal for showing guests, planning nice dinners, and having a night on the town. Sadly, rural towns in the U.S. are also suffering from crime in new ways due to drug crises. Tomorrow I will float a favorite river. I’m looking forward to showing off the area to my brother who just moved here from Washington, D.C. because he wants to enjoy California and the great city on the Bay. Yet, despite the day on the water in the foothills of the Sierras, I will be looking over my shoulder at the put-in and take-out because of the crime that has come with the opioid crisis. Sadly, this is just the way the world is now.
I grew up in D.C. in the 80s and 90s. For those old enough to remember, the city was a war zone in those days. To be honest, I was often scared. Yet, despite the fear, I knew in the back of my mind that I didn’t need to concern myself much with violent crime because I didn’t dabble in drugs or gangs or crime in general. In 1996, a child beauty queen in Boulder, Colorado was tragically murdered, and most reading this will be able to remember her name — 23 years later. I never knew the name of one single murdered child in my home city growing up, and the media didn’t care much either.
On June 23 in Chicago, four people were murdered. In the two days prior, an astonishing 25 people were killed. We should hear the names of all of those killed, but sometimes some murders stand out more than others. “Prominent Virginia Doctor Is Fatally Shot While Fly Fishing on Family Vacation in Belize” was the headline from People. What about the guide? Sadly, writers and reporters know how to attract readers, and this is why some deaths get more coverage than others.
Socioeconomic status should not determine how much press attention a tragedy should attract. Ignoring people of color or the poor or others who are murdered is an injustice. Likewise, using such tragedies to make suggestions about a country or its people is also wrong. This is especially the case when towns like San Pedro rely so heavily on tourism dollars. Presently there is no Global Rescue alert for Belize, and the State Department has Belize at the same advisory level as Italy. With going just about anywhere nowadays — from Belize to Omaha to a suburban public school — caution may be necessary at times, but fear isn’t.
Unfortunately in the case of this tragedy in Belize, the guide was an independent part-time guide who was connected to violent people who were involved with illegal activities. There was an attempt on this guide’s life the day before, and when the follow up attempt took place the next day, the U.S. angler was at the wrong place at the wrong time and was likely killed for being a witness.
Needless to say, this double murder was unusual, and this is in part the reason it has attracted so much attention. And in fact, the shooting was so unusual that the Belizean government took swift action and the alleged killer surrendered after an aggressive manhunt. Additionally, the police are planning to arrest many more. The killing has both shaken and surprised those who know and love the country. “In El Pescador’s 45-plus years of operation, we have never heard of or experienced anything like this,” stated Ali Gentry the owner of El Pescador Lodge. “This was a case of being with the wrong guide, in the wrong place, at the wrong time.”
For Jim Klug of Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures and author of Fly Fishing Belize, this double murder should not characterize Belize, its standing as a tourist destination or the character of its people. “Violent crime against tourists in Belize is incredibly rare, and in general, Belizeans are incredibly warm and friendly people who welcome visitors to their country with open arms,” states Klug. “Each year, thousands of anglers visit the country to fish the productive flats for bonefish, permit, tarpon and snook.”
For Wil Flack of Tres Pescados and the Belize Permit Club, the tragedy is personal, and he hopes people can learn for themselves the kind and welcoming ways of the people of Belize. “Our heartfelt condolences go out to those affected by this senseless tragedy,” he states. “This is my home and I welcome everyone to come visit Belize and experience the hospitality of our nation.”
For the thousands of others who have visited Belize, they know what a special place this destination is and how much the country has to offer. Hearts go out to the victims.
-TH
Mongolia Taimen Fishing from Frontiers Travel on Vimeo.
Taimen in Mongolia! For salmonid junkies, taimen are certainly on the bucket list.
To check out more from Frontiers, please click here.
ALPHLEXO – The Full Version from Keith Rose-Innes on Vimeo.
“Alphlexo” appeared on the Fly Fishing Film Tour this year, and the film is now available online.
From Keith Rose-Innes:
“Every so often a fly pattern evolves to significantly change the odds of enticing the most difficult fish species, which have been driving fishing guides and anglers to the brink of insanity for decades. Alphlexo is the story of how the Alphonse Fishing Company guides combined and evolved various crab patterns, to finally tie a fly that has revolutionized the odds of catching Indo-Pacific Permit. The Alphlexo is a hybrid that combines flies like the Flexo-Crab, Orvice Crab and various others to change the odds of catching the most technical fish that swim the flats of the Seychelles. The end result is a crab that an angler can confidently cast at an Indo-Pacific Permit with a true belief that they have a chance at a reaction or even striking gold.”
To check out more from Keith Rose-Innes, please click here.
From Costa Sunglasses:
Daytona Beach, Fla. – June 25, 2019 – Costa Sunglasses is collaborating with SweetWater, an Atlanta-based brewery, to continue to bring awareness and action to the growing issue of plastic pollution in our waterways through its new Kick Plastic Pilsner.
The 2019 summer collaboration with SweetWater expands upon Costa’s commitment to Kick Plastic, an initiative Costa launched in 2015. The beer’s namesake, Kick Plastic, is a program the Costa team created to draw attention to the excessive plastic polluting our waterways and oceans. As part of Costa and SweetWater’s continued commitment to protecting our watery world, a percentage of profits from the sale of the Kick Plastic Pilsner will be donated to various clean water partners, including Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, Coastal Conservation Association, Trout Unlimited and Waterkeeper Alliance. In addition, the collaboration is part of SweetWater’s annual Save Our Water campaign, which has donated well over $1 million to organizations who protect natural resources and habitats.
“Protecting the health of our oceans has always been a top priority at Costa and we take great pride in partnering with like-minded organizations who share our passion,” said T.J. McMeniman, vice president of marketing at Costa. “Our collaboration with SweetWater is helping to raise awareness to the growing issue of plastic pollution while also removing plastic from our waterways through cleanup efforts.”
By purchasing Kick Plastic Pilsner, consumers are supporting conservation organizations’ efforts to remove plastic from our waterways. Additionally, fans are encouraged to devote time this summer to their own clean-up efforts. Consumers can win free Costa sunglasses by posting an Instagram photo of the trash they remove, and tagging it #SaveOurWater19. For details and rules, visit http://waterkeeperbrew.org/terms-conditions.
“SweetWater has always been passionate about the outdoors and fishing, and no one helps us see it better than Costa,” said Freddy Bensch, SweetWater founder. “The mission of their Kick Plastic campaign is to make sure our watery world stays viable for natural habitats to thrive, and for future generations to enjoy. We love having a partner who wants to see our streams, oceans and rivers cleaner and clearer.”
Kick Plastic Pilsner is a refreshing Czech-style pilsner that pops with herbal notes and tropical fruit aroma, balanced by malty, oceanic characters on the palate. View the can art by fisherman and visual artist, Eric Estrada here. Kick Plastic Pilsner is available June through mid-September in bottles, 12-ounce cans and on draft. Learn more at www.waterkeeperbrew.org/kick-plastic-pilsner.
About Costa
As the first manufacturer of color-enhancing all-polarized sunglass lenses, Costa combines superior lens technology with unparalleled fit and durability. Still handcrafted in Florida, Costa has made the highest quality, best performing sunglasses and prescription sunglasses (Rx) for outdoor enthusiasts since 1983, and now its product portfolio includes optical frames. Costa’s growing cult-brand status ties directly to its mission to provide high quality products with a focus on sustainability and conservation as the company works hard to protect the waters it calls home. From the use of sustainable materials to its Kick Plastic initiative, IndiFly Foundation and strong partnership with shark research organization OCEARCH, Costa encourages people to help protect the Earth’s natural resources in any way they can. Find out more on Costa’s website and join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter at @CostaSunglasses.
About SweetWater
SweetWater Brewing Co. is celebrating 22 years of making heady beers in Atlanta, Ga. Its award winning line up of beers includes flagship 420 Extra Pale Ale, SweetWater IPA, 420 Strain G13 IPA, and Guide Beer Lager, plus a variety of additional year round, seasonal and barrel aged brews. SweetWater is passionate about protecting natural resources and habitats, and is recognized for its contributions to environmental initiatives throughout its distribution footprint. Supporting the conservation of some of the nation’s most threatened rivers, streams and coastlines is a cause near and dear to the brewery – the annual Save Our Water campaign generates over $100,000 to conservation organizations like Waterkeeper Alliance, Trout Unlimited, Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, and Coastal Conservations Association (learn more at www.sweetwaterbrew.com/saveourwater). For more information about SweetWater Brewing Company and brewery hours, please visit www.sweetwaterbrew.com. Follow SweetWater Brewing Company on Twitter/ Instagram @sweetwaterbrew, and become a fan at facebook.com/sweetwaterbrew.
From Winston Rods:
We are very excited to announce that the new Winston AIR TH has won the Best New Fly Rod at the 2019 European Fishing Tackle Trade Exhibition.
Our new Winston AIR TH rods redefine two-hand casting performance. Utilizing our SuperSilica resin system and Boron technology, these rods are unbelievably light, perfectly balanced, powerful, responsive, and just plain fun to fish.
Featuring a deep loading action with fast recovery rates, AIR TH models are ideal for any steelhead and salmon fishing application. They showcase adaptive and specified grain windows that are ideal for specific two-hand applications. In addition to the dialed grain windows, AIR TH models utilize smaller diameter grips to give anglers more feel and intuition during the cast.
WEIGHTS: 5 thru 9wt.
ACTION: Medium Fast
SECTIONS: 4
GUIDES: Satin finished stripper guide with Silicon Nitride ring. Hard chrome snake guides.
REEL SE AT: Charcoal Gray anodized aluminum, down locking
STORAGE: Premium graphite rod tube with logo rod sock
MSRP: $1250
AVAILABLE AT YOUR AUTHORIZED WINSTON DEALER
SEPTEMBER 2019
HIGHLIGHTS
- Advanced Boron III technology combined with our proprietary SuperSilica lightweight resin system
- Extremely light, yet powerful and responsive
- Deep loading action with a fast recovery rate
- Standardized rod lengths across multiple grain windows to support any casting style
- Winston-designed grip for better “feel”
- Designed and Handcrafted in Twin Bridges, MT
| LINE | LENGTH | GRIP | SKAGIT LINE | SCANDI LINE | ROD PRICE | BLANK PRICE | | 5wt. | 12’ | TWO HANDED | 390-420 | 360-390 | $1250 | $625 | | 6wt. | 11’6” | TWO HANDED | 420-450 | 390-420 | $1250 | $625 | | 6wt. | 12’6” | TWO HANDED | 420-450 | 390-420 | $1250 | $625 | | 6wt. | 13’3” | TWO HANDED | 420-450 | 390-420 | $1250 | $625 | | 7wt. | 12’3” | TWO HANDED | 510-525. | 440-480 | $1250 | $625 | | 7wt. | 13’3” | TWO HANDED | 510-525 | 440-480 | $1250 | $625 | | 8wt. | 12’3” | TWO HANDED | 540-570 | 510-540 | $1250 | $625 | | 8wt. | 13’3” | TWO HANDED | 540-570 | 510-540 | $1250 | $625 | | 8wt. | 14’6” | TWO HANDED | 540-570 | 510-540 | $1250 | $625 | | 9wt. | 12’9” | TWO HANDED | 570-600 | 520-540 | $1250 | $625 |
Ph: Brian Grossenbacher Dan “Rooster” Leavens is a well-known guide and the owner of Stonefly Outfitters Inn & Outfitters in Twin Bridges, Montana. Known for his fly fishing expertise and dynamic personality, we were pleased that Rooster took the time during the busiest time of the year to sit down to interview with The Venturing Angler:
Why do you guide where you do?
I know it is rude to answer a question with a question – but this warrants it.
Have you ever been to Montana? Fly fished there? Floated the Big Hole River?
Unless you have, it is difficult to explain. If you have, then you know precisely what I am talking about.
What is your favorite fish specie?
The ones that are hungry.
What is your favorite thing about guiding?
The freedom it allows.
What is the most memorable trip you’ve guided and why?
A few years ago I was guiding a fellow from New Zealand. They catch a lot of big trout there – according to him. He was really putting the pressure on me to show him what Montana is all about. So, I did.
I drove him all around the region, never touching pavement. He caught 5 species of trout, all on a dry fly. Only one of them was big. That was the brown. And it was really big. We then drank most of a 12 pack of good beer, stopped and ate a steak at a strip club and then got a bull elk to bugle at us on the way home.
Mission accomplished.
What is the funniest thing you’ve experienced while guiding?
That would be when a pretty funny fellow from Texas was with me on the Jefferson River.
When we hit the get out there was a young couple in a pickup expressing their love for one another.
We took the boat out, put our gear away, and once again fired up the engine.
About then she saw us. At which point the young man fired up his pick up and headed on down the road. Fast. However, he forgot that there was a hairpin turn about a quarter mile down the way and ended up in the ditch. I’m pretty sure they are still embarrassed.
What makes your guide service great?
My staff. I have the most reliable, flexible guide staff I have ever worked with. They are hysterical, serious, nervous, confident and very damn capable.
If you had only one day off all year, where would you fish and what fish would you target?
Permit. In Mexico. With Jorge.
What are your favorite three flies?
Trout – A Bareback Rider……
Permit – A fresh tied Jorge Crab.
GT’s – A Popovic style fly, tied by my daughter. Red and White. Old School.
What is the one piece of gear you couldn’t bear to leave at home?
I hate to say it, but my doggone phone.
I can bite line up to 200#, so it’s not my nippers.
Most of my hosted trips I play the music and open beers – it’s hard to do either without my phone.
Do you have any other passions?
Bird Hunting. Running my bird dogs all over the Rocky Mountain West. That’s where you find me in October and November.
To learn more about Dan “Rooster” Leavens and Stonefly Outfitters, please click here.
Planning a trip to the Bahamas? A new video from Cortland and featuring Christiaan Pretorius looks at what you might need for a trip to the Bahamas.
To check out more from Cortland, please click here.
Kingfish on the fly in New Zealand!
From Trippin on Trout:
“My first trip this season to hunt Yellow Tail kingfish on the flats. They don’t come easy and you have to put in the time and effort but when it all comes together, it’s all completely worthwhile!”
To check out more from Trippin on Trout, please click here.