Last week I rolled out the Casting Across Fly Shop Box. This online resource  is intended to be a growing, dynamic, comprehensive list of all the fly shops in the lower 48. Even after scouring the internet, I’m aware that there are shops that I’ve missed. The call was put out to readers of Casting Across to send in shop info for any store that I neglected to include. Along with some bone-headed exclusions that were brought to my attention, I had a handful of suggestions for stores that aren’t exactly fly shops.

Well, they aren’t… but they are.

I’ve long maintained that there are sporting goods store managers and fly fishing department employees that go over and beyond. Their businesses aren’t fly shops in the narrow definition of the term, but they make fly fishing their business. They take their work seriously and they  take fly fishing seriously. Sometimes, they provide a service that exceeds traditional fly shops.

While I do desire to maintain a distinction between the culturally important fly shop proper and these other establishments,  I also want to acknowledge and recognize the stores that don’t fit the mold but shine nonetheless. They might be the only fly gear option around, they might be more affordable, or they might just to a really good job at helping people pursue fish.

Here’s how you can help highlight these stores:

If you know or work for a big box store or general outdoor retailer that takes fly fishing seriously, let me know. This directory won’t be included with the fly shops, but it will be accessible through that list. Use the contact form below to help me, and others, find these fly fishing diamonds in the rough.