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AFFTA Names Aug. 24 “A Day for Bristol Bay”

The American Fly Fishing Tade Association (AFFTA) has announced August 24th as A Day for Bristol Bay, with the goal to continue to raise funds to fight against the construction of mines in the Bristol Bay headwaters.

From AFFTA:

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.

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.

How can you participate?
Shop at your local participating retailer, support the participating brands, or make a direct donation!

Taking part in Day for Bristol Bay is easy: 

• Get to your local participating fly shop on August 24th, or visit them online and buy the gear you need (see the list of participating retailers)
• Support the brands who are rallying for Bristol Bay by purchasing their gear (see the list of participating brands)
• Book a day or a week away with a participating guide, outfitter or lodge (see the list of guides, outfitters, lodges)
• Make a direct donation!

All donations will be made to the AFFTA Fisheries Fund and 100% of the proceeds will be sent on behalf of the fly fishing industry to the Bristol Bay Defense Fund.”

You can make a direct donation, here!

To see a full list of participating retailers and shops, head over to this handy list on AFFTA.org!

Dry Fly Fishing – Tips and Techniques

When new anglers embrace the intricate world of fly fishing the ultimate goal is to catch a trout on a dry fly. The iconic image of a fly angler floating down the river or wading through a stream with a rod bent over from a heavy fish that has taken your dry fly is the peak of our sport for many. Approaching dry fly fishing with a few helpful hints will enhance your fishing experience and increase your success. 

Fly selection:

The most important factor to dry fly fishing success is fly selection. Size, silhouette, and color steer the selection process when choosing a dry fly.

Size falls under the old adage of “match the hatch” anglers need to choose flies that mimic the same size of the insects that are actively emerging. Fish become very selective during the hatch and size is the most dominant factor.

Silhouette refers to the shape of the fly on the water. Mayflies are easily mimicked with a parachute dry fly. Caddis can be copied accurately with the appropriately sized elk hair caddis. Grasshoppers have a very distinctive shape that even anglers recognize from a distance. The size and shape of the predominant insect in your watershed are the factors you should strive to imitate.

Color is the last factor in dry fly selection and can often be more for the angler than the fish. Dry flies become very difficult to track in broken water for anglers and fish. Indicator or Hi-vis dry flies allow for the first two factors, size, and silhouette, to seal the deal while the bright color assists anglers in setting the hook. Color could be as simple as changing the body color of your caddis fly from tan or olive to black. Trout notice the difference.

Dry Fly Dressing:

A dry fly is an adult bug that belongs on the surface in the air. Very few situations allow for a dry fly to be fished effectively drowned. Therefore there is a necessity to dress your dry fly for optimal performance.

Aquel, Flyagra and Shimishake are just a small sample of the myriad products available for dry fly dressing. Aquel made by Loon Products is an industry leader in environmentally safe products. Aquel is applied in small amounts with your fingers before the casting begins and is reapplied riverside when needed. Flyagra is a liquid you dip your fly into. Not so environmentally safe. This product needs to be applied ahead of time for the best effectiveness. Shimishake is a dry powdery desiccant you shake your fly into. The shake is used on the water and will require reapplication regularly to maintain high floating flies.

Leaders and Tippet:

Trout have an inquisitive eye requiring long leaders and fine tippets to present a dry fly effectively. Leaders longer than 9 feet in length and thin tippets are necessary in highly pressured waters like many tailwaters. Catch and release sections allow trout to become educated requiring extra stealth to entice a dry fly bite. 

Casting:

Accuracy is critical to put the fly where you need whether wading or float fishing. Misplacing your cast by inches can be the difference between a hookup and a pretty drift. As your skills improve a reach mend performed during the cast extends the effectiveness of your cast.

The Drift:

The drift, the way your dry fly floats upon the water, is critical to selling your dry fly. Careful mending both upstream and downstream is the only way to deliver your dry fly with the illusion of reality. Well-timed mending presents the fly for the longest amount of time unmolested by drag or negative water currents. 

Hatches:

Seasonal hatches are predictable for the time of year and water temperatures. However, rely on your fly shop for up to date info. Be aware of simultaneous hatches such as Pale Morning Duns emerging alongside Yellow Sallies as this is a common occurrence on Colorado rivers.

Be Observant:

Watch before you cast or enter the water. Knowing where the fish are feeding and what bug they are eating gives you the edge when you make your first cast. The observant angler understands where to place their first cast and that is often all it takes.

Best Positioning:

As part of being observant, there is always the best position for presenting your dry fly. Whether there are casting obstacles, difficult surface currents or mid river structures moving into the best position minimizes troublesome conditions. This is a task more easily achieved wade fishing by repositioning your casting angle. Positioning is crucial in netting your fish too.

Stealth:

Move slowly when wading. The slow-moving angler has more time to observe and spooks less fish. Wearing naturally toned clothing helps to hide the angler allowing for more accurate casting, less mending and better positioning. The angler bumping boots off underwater rocks and logs has already alerted fish of your presence. Be stealthy.

Dancing Game:

After the hook set, be prepared to move. Don’t stand still, now is the time to dance. Sitting square, boots planted in the river or without arm movement is a quick way to loose a fish during the fight.  Repositioning yourself for landing the fish is a regular occurrence.

Targeting trout with dry flies is the ultimate goal in fly fishing. Approaching dry fly fishing with these key points in mind will not be as intimidating to beginning fly fishers. Enhance your next fly fishing experience by booking a dry fly trip with your local fly shop. And to experience dry fly fishing in the most picturesque trout country in all of Colorado contact Vail Valley Anglers. Located in the heart of the Colorado Rockies Vail Valley Anglers specializes in float and wade trips that focus on dry fly fishing. Vail Valley Anglers can be reached here.

This article is written by Michael “Sal” Salomone @mikesalomone88 (www.michaelsalomone.com) a trout fly fishing guide and writer based in the mountains of Colorado at Vail Valley Anglers. Photos by the talented Nolan Dahlberg @dahlberg.digital. Follow along with them at @vailvalleyanglers for the latest in trout fishing in the west. 

https://theflylords.com/2019/05/02/float-fishing-for-beginners-10-tips-for-fly-fishing-from-a-raft-or-drift-boat/

https://theflylords.com/2018/12/14/5-reasons-why-the-scientific-anglers-amplitude-smooth-flyline-is-superior/

https://theflylords.com/2019/01/14/winter-fly-fishing-tips-making-the-most-out-of-winter-fly-fishing/

Photographer Spotlight: Jessica Haydahl Richardson

We had the opportunity to speak with the “Photo Geek herself,” Jessica Haydahl Richardson. She had the pleasure of joining a group of fishy women to take on renowned Christmas Island. Linked by Skinny Waters, they were hosted by Lagoon View resorts to document their adventure. We look forward to her video work of a group of strong women doing something outside of their normal comfort zone. It will also be submitted to both the FT3 and IF4.

Flylords: How would you describe Jessica Haydahl Richardson? 

Jessica: I think that Jessica Haydahl Richardson is creative, adventurous, caring, determined, strong-minded, hard worker, personable, chit-chatty, family-oriented and loyal.


Flylords: How did this excursion to Christmas Island come about? 

Jessica: I tie flies with a group of women in Montana during the winter. We were sitting around one night and someone said we should go somewhere warm to go fly-fishing. Christmas Island got thrown into the mix and the planning then started from there.

Flylords: How was this fly fishing shoot different than your usual photography jobs? 

Jessica: This shoot was a lot different in terms of the conditions I would usually be photographing in. I had to figure out a lot of different logistics… like the way I was going to carry my camera gear all day and not ruin my back. I didn’t want my gear to become a burden and impede me from documenting the trip correctly.

Flylords: What were the challenges photographically on this trip? 

Jessica: Being in water almost the entire day and figuring out how to carry my gear. Also, trying to get coverage of 7 different people and rotate between them was difficult. The weather was the biggest issue for us. High winds and lots of rains throughout the day really made it challenging.

Flylords: Tells us about your most frightening moment on the trip. 

Jessica: We got dropped off in some deeper water looking for some big GT’s. The water was up to our waists and the sky was pretty dark; the boat then took off to drop some of the other anglers off a bit away from us. Suddenly a massive storm rolled through and you couldn’t see anything. I had a moment of “oh shit, do they know where we are?” kind of feeling. Also, the rain and wind and darkness felt like we were sitting shark bait.

Flylords: What was the best moment of the trip?

Jessica: I was fishing with one of the ladies, Jenny West. Jenny had really wanted to catch a Triggerfish and had been trying hard to hook one throughout the trip. On the second to last day on her final cast the guide spotted a Trigger Fish. Jenny made a great cast to the fish and the line took off. The expression and pure excitement on her face were pretty incredible to photograph and film. I started cheering for her and a wave of excitement and emotion came over me as well!

Flylords: What lens did you find yourself using the most?

Jessica: I found I shot primarily with the Nikon 16-35mm f4 lens and 24-70mm f2.8 lens. Most of my shots were up close and right there with my subject, so both of these lenses worked really well for still images and also video work.

Flylords: How did you manage to carry all your camera gear through the salt flats?

Jessica: I saw a photographer on Instagram that had used a small Scuba Diving Inflatable raft to carry all of his gear. He balanced his camera and underwater housing on the small raft and clipped a rope to his waist. He used this set up in Seychelles, so I thought it would be a great idea for Christmas Island. It turned out to work perfectly! “Bertha the Boat” was then born.  She held my underwater housing and my yeti backpack with 3 cameras inside. I also used a system called the Cotton Carrier system. There are a chest and hip mount carrier that I wore and was able to go hands-free with my cameras mounting to the harness set up.

Flylords: How did you deal with the changing weather and humidity?

Jessica: The changing weather and humidity were a big challenge. It rained every day or throughout the day. I had to quickly pack my gear away when the rains rolled through and then would bring them back out again once it all cleared up. I found I had some fogging issues with my underwater housing from sitting in the heat of the sun. So I ended up taking one of my lens cloths and soaked it in water to cover the housing from the direct sunlight. This kept the underwater housing at a good temperature and eliminated the fogging.

Flylords: What were your goals on this trip? 

Jessica: My goals for the trip were pretty lofty. I was documenting the trip for some brands and also for a Magazine article, but one of my main goals for this trip was to do some video work as well and then be able to create a short documentary film to submit to both the FT3 and IF4.  I really wanted to showcase a group of strong women doing something outside of there normal comfort zone and showcasing the unity and adventurous spirit of the trip.

Flylords: Did you end up meeting them?

Jessica: I ended up taking on a lot, but I felt like I achieved what I set out to do. Being the only shooter and trying to cover everyone and everything was a lot of work. I can’t say that the trip was a very restful vacation for me.

Flylords: What story were you trying to tell with your images?

Jessica: I was trying to capture document the entire experience of 7 women having an adventure together. For the still images, I was photographing for Anglers Journal magazine. For them,  I was trying to focus on not only the fish but the culture, lifestyle, and portraits of the some of the people on Christmas Island and of course the ladies on the trip and their experience.

Flylords: Which image is your favorite?

Jessica: One of my favorite images was not of anyone fishing. We were driving back from the dock at the end of the day and a man and women pasted us on a motorcycle. I had my 70-200mm lens in my hand and quickly snapped a shot of them driving past. The guy who was sitting behind the women had a spear gun over his shoulder, snorkel and mask on his head and a wide array of different types of fish and squid strung over the other solder. He had just happed to turn and look over at us as we passed them.  I love capturing these quick kinds of moments; ones that I know I will never see again.

Flylords: Do you find it hard to watch other people fish? 

Jessica: Yes. I have photographed sports fishing for almost a decade now. Nothing is harder for me to watch then Fly Fishing. I have photographed Big Marlin, Yellow Fin tuna and all sorts of other amazing fish on conventional tackle, but as soon as someone grabs the fly rod, a bit of envy comes over me. After I felt like I had successfully captured the trip, I then took the final day off of photographing to catch some of my own fish.

Flylords: Would you do it all again and go back?

Jessica: Yes I would go back again for sure. I didn’t get the chance to photograph any big GT’s so that is still on my list of fish to photograph.

Costa Takes Home “Best Eyewear” Award at iCast

From Costa del Mar:

“Costa’s WaterWoman frame won the title of Best of Category – Eyewear during the International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades (ICAST) 2019 New Product Showcase Awards in Orlando, Fla. earlier this month. This honor marks Costa’s first female style to win an ICAST award and the eleventh ICAST award Costa products have won for various new sunglass styles and lens technologies since 2008.

Designed for the woman who wrings every last drop out of her time on the water, the new WaterWoman offers a medium fit and combines elegance with performance. The new style features beautifully angled temples, CAM-action hinges and color-contrasting Hydrolite accents throughout. WaterWoman also features a newly-designed keeper hole, which fits all Costa keepers. Available colors include Matte Shadow Tortoise, Shiny Palm Tortoise, Shiny Wahoo, and Shiny Blond Crystal.”

The Costa Del Mar WaterWoman frame which took home “Best in Category” at this year’s iCast

“‘As a solely female frame that’s now one of our newest best-selling styles (joining the ranks of many unisex or male-focused styles), we have been overwhelmed with the positive reception of the WaterWoman frame,’ said John Sanchez, vice president of product development for Costa Sunglasses. ‘This style has been a breakthrough frame for Costa—combining the on-water performance that Costa is known for with the latest styles and trends. We are honored to accept this award from a highly respected group of anglers, aficionados and industry professionals.’

The ICAST New Product Showcase Awards is an annual event featuring over 1,000 nominated products, with a 2018 attendance of over 15,000 registered attendees eligible to vote for their favorite innovations in tackle, gear, accessories and apparel in the global sportfishing world.
For more information on Costa Sunglasses, visit www.costasunglasses.com.”

TU Costa 5 Rivers Odyssey – Update 3

Week 3

The Odyssey crew has been extremely fortunate to have such an incredible itinerary set out for us from learning about cutting edge restoration projects, to fishing humbling rivers. This past week, however, due to some change of plans, the Odyssey crew was on their own. Seizing the opportunity, we quickly drove from the Methow Valley to the North Cascades National Park.

Blue Lake 5 Rivers 2019
Blue Lake, North Cascades National Park

Aside from the exciting presence of snow and expansive mountainous views, we were excited to take advantage of the alpine lake fishing in the area. Settling on Blue Lake (one of many lakes named so), we took to the trails and spent a day hiking up to and fishing the lake. Eager westslope cutthroat prowled the shores waiting for our dry flies – regardless of their size. With great success catching wonderfully patterned fish on dries ranging from small caddis, to larger sized stimulators and hoppers, the crew really enjoyed the alpine fishing scene. Before ending the day, we even met a new friend – a mountain goat.

Washington Coast 5 Rivers 2019
Josh and the Crew

Although not in the original itinerary, we decided to head on over to the Washington coast to visit Seattle and try to fish the coast. With a quick Instagram message, we connected with Josh Phillips, owner of Spawn Fly Fish, to try our luck at wrangling some aggressive sea-run coastal cutthroat.

The perfect PNW landscape

Based on a tip from a friend, we headed out to a spot with Josh that ended up proving to be a challenging hike in. Regardless, sometimes it takes a little bit of wandering with a side of bushwhacking and scrapes to find the best spots. While no cutthroats were to be found, the crew was rewarded with PNW-esque views and the first steelhead of the trip.

Native, wild steelhead

As we hopped our way from deep pool to deep pool, I suddenly hear Dan Eiden yell, “that just came out of nowhere, it hunted my streamer down. It was massive.” Aiding Dyer Benjovksy, Dan pointed out the spot where the mysterious beastly fish came from – a deep pool shielded by an overhanging fallen log. A perfect roll cast and two strips of a streamer saw Dyer fighting a fish that briefly doubled over his rod. A short fight and well-executed netting of the fish revealed a 20+ inch steelhead. While our trip does not perfectly coincide with summer run steelhead, the whole crew erupted with excitement at the sight of Dyer’s fish. Interestingly enough the steelhead had a tag — a specimen part of a wild steelhead reintroduction study in the area, Josh explained.

A Lower Snake River Dam

High on the energy of a special catch, the Odyssey crew parted ways with Washington and the coast for the rest of the trip and headed east towards the Grand Ronde area where we will be finishing off our journey. On the way, we stopped at the Lower Snake Dams — a strange and eerie experience in and of itself, lots of complex thoughts raced through my mind as I stood on chunk rock a few hundred yards from the dam. I sat reflecting upon all the stories we have heard thus far, from watching Columbia River basin fisheries decline to pondering the future of our native salmonids, trout and other anadromous fish that rely on open access to tributaries and headwaters.

We will be completing our journey with a week in the Grand Ronde area by taking part in more restoration efforts to enhance habitat for anadromous and native fish. It is quite mind-numbing to think about how quickly our time has gone by, but make sure to follow along with the remainder of our journey on Instagram @tucosta5rivers.

Article and pictures by FlyLords Media Intern Matteo Moretti.

The Volcanic River – West Rangá, Iceland

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Check out the latest video from Switch Productions, where they head to Iceland to fish the West Ranga River. The river sits below the spectacular Mt. Hekla, one of the country’s active volcanoes. It is entirely a spring-fed source is responsible for both the consistent water temperature and flow resulting in an insanely productive fishery. Be sure to check out Switch Productions on Instagram at @switchproductions

https://theflylords.com/2019/07/22/new-high-tech-fish-tags/

https://theflylords.com/2019/04/22/finnmark-with-switch-productions/

The Best Fly Fly Fishing Packs That’ll Have Your Back (2019 Edition)

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Whether you’re heading out for a longly anticipated journey into the mountains, or just want to make sure you’ve got all the gear you need for a day on the water, having the right backpack is essential. Considering Anglers have been transporting gear, food, and of course: Beer, in backpacks for as long as the means has existed, we decided to make a list of the best fly fishing packs that’ll have your back for the year of 2019.

We took into account practicality, durability, and functionality as our primary points when assessing what we believe to be the best packs available on the market. Please note that the styles and purposes differ for each pack, all accommodating for certain preferences and styles any anglers may have.

Like what you see? Click here to be taken to the buyer’s guide at the bottom of the page.

1. The REI Ruckpack 28

rei fly fishing backpack
Image courtesy of REI.com

This day pack comes in at 28 Liters and is made up of durable ripstop nylon that can take anything you throw its way. With comfort kept in mind, the Ruckpack comes with a rugged foam frame, and a ventilated mesh back, allowing easy breathing and sweat minimalization. On this inside of the medium-sized streamlined backpack, you’ll find a large storage area, as well as a reservoir pocket for stowing fragile gear such as a laptop. On the outside, you have a top pocket, and side pockets to the body built for incredibly easy access. Additional features include a concealable daisy chain, trekking pole holders, and most importantly, a built-in stowable rain cover to assure everything in your pack stays bone dry even when mother nature doesn’t comply.

2. Patagonia Storm Front Roll Top

patagonia fly fishing backpack
Image courtesy of Patagonia

Patagonia has reengineered their bags to become the pinnacle of fly fishing equipment. This fully welded, 40L waterproof bag is made of 800 denier Nylon with a Tpu AND DWR finish. In its large main compartment, you’ll find a built-in zippable mesh pocket that can hold objects you don’t want to bounce around during your journey. On the outside, the bag possesses a removable waist belt, an adjustable shoulder strap, and low profile adjustable shoulder harnesses compatible with a Patagonia convertible vest. Additional features include a built-in rod tube strap (as well as a spot for an additional one), and an adjustable shock cord for holding wet gear or a net.

3. The Fishpond Bitch Creek Tech Pack

fish pond bitch creek fly fishing backpack
Image courtesy of FishpondUSA

Conservationists take note: this bag is made with Fishponds fish net based material Cyclepond, and is a piece of recycled genius. Built with structured back airmesh paneling, and load control padded shoulder straps, you’ll be able to go all day without the ache or sweat. This pack’s features include aquaguard water-resistant YKK zippers, two zip rod tube holders, as well as a D ring attachment tab for your net. Built to be compatible with an internal water bladder, as well as Fishponds signature Oxbow chest rig, this loadout can be the one-stop-shop for practicality and versatility

4. Yeti Panga Submersible Backpack

Yeti fly fishing bag
Image courtesy of Yeti

leave it to Yeti to make a bag we simply can’t take our eyes off of. Its simple yet functional design capitalizes on its THICKSKIN TPU lamination, as well as its patented Hydrolock zipper technology, keeping it completely waterproof as well as submersible. Inside the main compartment of the bag, you’ll find a mesh stowaway sleeve to keep your gear neat and organized. On the outside, the ergonomic DryHaul shoulder design, as well as the adjustable chest and waist strap assure that your gear is riding high and comfortable. Not to mention, if your looking for additional external storage, the bag is completely compatible with the also waterproof Yeti Sidekick hopper.

5. Simms Dry Creek Z

simms fly fishing backpack
Image courtesy of Simms

The folks at Simms are committed to putting forth American made, nature proof gear; and the Simms Dry Creek Z Backpack is no exception. Here we have yet another completely submersible backpack, held together by welded seams, 500D TPU-coated nylon fabric, and patented TIZIP tech waterproof zippers, you can take this pack anywhere. On the inside of this bag, you’ll find a stretch mesh storage pocket, perfect for holding water bottles upright. On the exterior, the pack has a built-in D ring, velcro patch, rod straps, and lash points for any extra utilities. Also, this pack is sure to help you keep dry and comfortable rain or shine with a water-resistant, breathable foam back pad.

6. Rockgator Kanara

rockagator fly fishing bag
image courtesy of Rockagator

Pack the car and leave a note, the mountains are calling and you must go. This pack means BUSINESS. With a whopping 90L of storage space, you can pack enough gear for the fishing trip of a lifetime. Built with a 500D PVC construction, as well as 1000D connection points for added strength, this pack can hold its own (Not to mention if it can’t, its got a limited lifetime warranty….yup). Not to mention, with welded watertight seams, you’ll never have to fear a wet sleeping bag again. Still, this pack does not sacrifice comfort, as it includes adjustable padded shoulder straps, hip straps, and a top carry handle. Additional features include Hypalon attachment points on either side, mesh side pockets, and a large external mesh zipper map pouch. However, tread cautiously, because with a bag that has it all, you’re always subject to becoming the group’s mule.

7. Fishpond Wind River Roll Top

wind river fly fishing backpack
Image courtesy of FishpondUSA

Fishpond is back with another brilliant design sure to keep your gear safe and dry. Again, this backpack is constructed with the signature Cyclepond recycled fabric and coated with a 420D TPU. Inside the body, you’ll find the main compartment, as well as a zipped pocket, and an additional stash spot for smaller gear. The outside features a removable hip belt, adjustable fishpond gear straps, and for extreme ease of access, front stretch mesh pocket with zipper closure. It also features a coated webbing hauling haul handle for the user’s convenience. This Backpack can be folded down to 24″ to be compact and light, keeping you fishing longer.

8. Umpqua Surveyor 2000 ZS

Umpqua 2000 fly fishing pack
Image courtesy of Amazon.com

Designed with Fly fishing in mind, and 2000 cubic inches of carrying compacity, the surveyor allows anglers to go further for longer. This pack is built with a solid ABS frame, a suspended back panel, and a full-length ventilation channel that keeps you feeling cool and clean all day. Featuring an easy to access clamshell opening, two front pockets, two side pockets, and two loft pockets built into the 420D body, you’re going to have to try to find more to carry. The Surveyor also has 2 webbed rod straps, an internal key clip, and built-in wet loops. Tie that all together with closed foot sliders and a fully padded waist belt, and you’ve got the perfect culmination of practical and comfortable.

9. Orvis Waterproof Backpack

orvis pack fly fishing pack
image courtesy of Amazon.com


What this name lacks in creativity, it surely makes up for in design. With a 500D TPU coated exterior and a flex seal waterproof zipper, this bag provides 21L of safekeeping, included a padded bottom for fragile objects like a camera. Outside of the pack, you’ll find a comfy suspension padded back panel, an adjustable padded waist belt, and adjustable padded shoulder straps. On said straps, there’s a built-in gear station where you can store forceps or clippers. On top of all that, there are also 2 water bottle/ rod holders (mix and match for maximum utility) and an easy to reach back pocket for smaller items.

Buy Them Here:

REI Ruckpack 28

Patagonia Storm Front Roll Top Pack

Fishpond Bitch Creek Tech Pack

Yeti Panga Submersible Backpack

Simms Dry Creek Z Backpack

Rockgator Kanara Pack

Fishpond Wind River Roll-Top Backpack

Umpqua Surveyor 2000 ZS Backpack

Orvis Waterproof Backpack

 

This article was written by Wills Donaldson 

Cover photo courtesy of Ryan Forbus 

https://theflylords.com/2016/10/14/596/

https://theflylords.com/2018/08/11/gear-review-axis-go-phone-case/

Artist Spotlight: Ed Anderson

We are excited to release this awesome Artist Spotlight piece with the talented Ed Anderson. We also have an exclusive artist collaboration item for sale for you if you read through the interview!

Flylords: Tell us a little about when your art career started?
Ed:
Been doing it my whole life. But when the economy collapsed in 2008 it was the only trade I’ve ever known…. gave me a sense of urgency.

Flylords: When did your passions for fishing and art collide?
Ed: About the same time. I was working for the No Business Lodge and Jackson Kayak and hitting a lot of trade shows. I thought that crowd would like to see my interpretation of trout.

Flylords: How would you describe your artistic style?
ED:
A controlled mess

Flylords: Tell us about your journal.
Ed: Long story short; all my finished pieces are based on sketches.  I believe all art is just telling a story.  It took a bit of refining, but now the pages have become a very effective way to tell about adventures and the folks I’ve met along the way.

Flylords: Do you have a favorite piece of artwork you have done?
Ed: I have a large black and white painting of my grandfather in his WWII flight gear.  It sits in my basement and reminds me of sacrifice and legacy.

Flylords: Biggest accomplishment as an artist?
Ed:
Lucky enough to have had the 50th anniversary cover of Grays Sporting Journal.

Flylords:  Favorite fish to draw?
Ed: Spawned out red salmon…. tons of symbolism.

Flylords: Tell us a little about the brown trout collaboration we worked on! What inspired you to draw this fish?
Ed:
I love angry brown trout and thought it’d be a fun design.  My thought on the story is its something everyone can relate to you.  Even if you don’t have a lucky hat, you’ve thought about it.

The Flylords X Ed Anderson Lucky Hat Collaboration

Flylords: Are you working on anything cool for the end of this year?
Ed: Tons.  Finishing the build on an 85 Bronco 2.  Getting ready for three gigantic shows including a synopsis of my 2 month residency at Ding Darling NWR for their 75th year.

Flylords: Would you rather catch a trophy fish, or draw a trophy fish?
Ed: Id rather listens to others tell their fish stories.

Flylords: Favorite Beer, Movie, Band?
Ed:
Anything Cold, Bull Durham, shifts regularly but have been appreciating the hell out of Tom Petty after his death.
Flylords: Have you had any near-death experiences?
Ed:
Hit a tree skiing… should have died.  I’m thankful to be here.

If you want to snag one of the exclusive Flylords Brown Trout Hats from Ed check out the link below and be sure to follow @edandersonart on Instagram.

A Lucky Hat: Artist Series


https://theflylords.com/2019/07/02/artist-spotlight-eric-estrada/

https://theflylords.com/2018/12/14/artist-spotlight-mandy-hertzfeld/

Lodge Plane Crash in Canada Leaves 3 Dead and 4 Missing

On July 14th, Three Rivers Lodge in Canada lost contact with their plane carrying a pilot, 2 guides and 4 clients as they traveled into the Labrador wilderness for a day of fly fishing. After an extensive search conducted by local and Canadian Authorities, 3 bodies have been recovered, those of Matthew Weaver, John Weaver III, the 66-year-old pilot Gilles Morin and a 50-year-old guide from Newfoundland and Labrador are still missing, but are presumed dead by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

The small Quebec airline that provided the air-service to the lodge, Air Saguenay, has had 3 fatal crashes in the past 9 years.

We are saddened to see another fatal incident involving fly anglers and would like to extend our condolences to the families and friends affected by this tragedy.

Three Rivers Lodge has released a statement about the crash, which you can read, here.

For continued coverage and updates on the recovery efforts, follow the story, here on CBC News.

Video of the Week: Finding Common Ground

With our sport rapidly growing, there is unfortunately sometimes conflict on the river. I have heard multiple cases of anglers complaining about others bothering them in one way or another. This film aims to solve some of those issues. Finding Common Ground is a series put on by Fat Bottom Brewing that brings together people from multiple industries that often knock heads. Some other episodes in this series include rock climbers colliding with hunters, and mountain bikers encountering off roaders. In this video they focus on a fly fisherman and a kayaker.

The film focuses on Leland Miyawaki, an avid fly fisherman, and Tyler Bradt, a professional kayaker. They both discuss the stereotypes of each other and begin to understand the perspective of the other person. Throughout the film they have the opportunity to experience each other’s passions and realize that they are both fighting for a common goal, to protect public lands. Be sure to check out the full film to see what you can do to help their cause.

This film is presented by Fat Tire Brewing, be sure to check out their YouTube channel to see the rest of the “Finding Common Ground” series.

The video of the week is selected and written by Fly Lords team member Conner Grimes (@doublehaulfishing).

https://theflylords.com/2019/07/18/video-of-the-week-belize-permit-club-sizzle/

https://theflylords.com/2019/07/11/throwback-video-of-the-week-eastern-rises/

https://theflylords.com/2019/07/05/video-of-the-week-alphlexo/