The judicious reader of this website will be well aware that he may encounter content that is fly fishing adjacent. The very subheading of the website, in contrasting white for all to see, promises that what follows is about “the quarry and culture of fly fishing.” The quarry is the fish. But as soon as you delve into rods, flies, locations, history, or conservation you’re squarely within the category of culture. Try as you might, you can’t have one without the other.
This reality does create some consternation among anglers, from time to time. If paid attention to, the sheer volume of the stuff and the marketing and the social media intensity can be off putting. For what it is worth, there is a kernel of truth in that sentiment. But there is more to the industry than that. Here are three observations:
- Fly fishing is a small economic fish in a big outdoor industry pond.
- No one is forcing you to scroll Instagram, attend a film festival, or read this website.
- The vast majority of people are in it for the genuine love of the quarry and the culture of fly fishing.
And I have a great example of that third point.
At the Edison stop of The Fly Fishing Show, there is a private industry party after the vendors close shop in the exhibition hall. Sponsored by the aforementioned event, Cross Current Insurance, Kismet Outfitters, and Oakpool, the goal is to raise money for three diverse organizations. The American Museum of Fly Fishing, Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, and Casting for Recovery don’t have a lot in common. Except for the fact that the fly fishing industry, along with the angling public, supports their work because of the pivotal role each group plays.
Last year the event raised over $18,000 to be split between the organizations. That is a significant contribution for the three nonprofits. And arriving at that figure is no small feat for a bunch of fly tyers, sales reps, and small business owners.
Aside from a feel-good story, what is the purpose of sharing a closed-door event? Perspective, I suppose.
I have been on either side of the industry fence in various capacities over the past 20+ years. Sure: I have been witness to some less than savory personalities and actions (but isn’t that true anywhere?). By and large, it is a collection of good people who all like chasing fish using a relatively inefficient method. It is a collection of good people that probably wouldn’t be in the same room if not for their shared passion for chasing fish. There is something refreshing about knowing the people you patronize fish, the companies you support give back, and the nonprofits have buy-in from their peers.
Culture matters. And in my humble opinion, fishing alongside others in this community makes the culture worthwhile.
If you’re not familiar with The American Museum of Fly Fishing, Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, and Casting for Recovery, definitely check out their links. Or even better, next time there is an outdoor show make a point to stop into their respective booths to talk face to face with one of their reps.
And it is worth mentioning that you might be interested in Cross Current Insurance, Kismet Outfitters, and Oakpool, too.