Featured Angler: The Journey of Scott Moore and WAC Outdoors

The Fly Box LLC
Feb 18, 2025
5 min read

This interview was conducted by The Fly Box and featured in Casts That Care, our charity-driven fly fishing newsletter.

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Fly fishing is often more than just a pastime—it’s a lifelong journey filled with unforgettable moments, personal growth, and a passion for sharing knowledge. This next featured angler, Scott Moore, of WAC Outdoors, embodies all of these qualities. From childhood curiosity sparked by a bamboo rod to becoming a mentor for new fly fishers, his story is a testament to the lasting power of the sport.

A Lifelong Passion Begins

For many fly anglers, the first encounter with a rod is a defining moment. For Moore, it all started with his father’s bamboo fly rod, adorned with a Shakespeare 1837 automatic reel. The beauty and intricacy of the setup ignited his imagination. That fascination led him to a flea market in Norton, Ohio, where he convinced his mother to buy him a 9’ 8 wt Berkley fly rod for just $4. That very rod became the foundation of a lifelong adventure—and still hangs proudly on his wall today. This level of sentimental value and connection to a first rod speaks volumes about how deeply fly fishing roots itself in a person’s identity.

The defining moment that turned fly fishing from a simple hobby into a lifelong passion came through the pages of an outdoor magazine. A Dave Whitlock article on bass fishing with a fly rod captured his imagination, and from that moment on, he knew he would be a fly fisherman for life. It’s incredible how a single article can inspire such a long-term commitment, highlighting the power of storytelling and shared experiences in the fly fishing world.

Memories on the Water

Some fishing experiences stay with us forever, and for Scott, one of the most memorable came at the age of 14. During a family trip to Rice Lake in Canada, he spent an early morning casting a black gnat fly along the shoreline. What followed was an incredible session of catching 15-20 yellow perch one after another—the first time he truly "got into them" with a fly rod. Moments like these serve as a reminder that it’s not always about the size of the fish but the thrill of mastering the technique and connecting with the water.

Another unforgettable experience came years later in an unexpected place—a cattle pond on his in-laws' farm in Alabama. With nothing but a green woolly bugger on the line, he cast into the deeper water near the dam. What happened next shocked everyone, including his skeptical family: a 4lb bass hit like a freight train. By the time he returned to the farmhouse with photos of multiple big bass, his relatives—who had always believed there were no fish in the pond—were stunned. The very next morning, the once-forgotten farm pond looked like it was hosting a professional tournament. This story highlights one of the greatest joys of fly fishing—the element of surprise and discovery. Sometimes, the best fishing spots are the ones we least expect.

Targeting the Best Species

While he has a deep appreciation for many species, striped bass and hybrids hold a special place in his heart. It’s no surprise, as these fish are known for their power and aggressiveness on the line, making them a favorite among fly anglers who enjoy a good fight. If given the chance to take a dream fly fishing trip, Scott would return to the pristine waters of Canada, where smallmouth bass, untouched by heavy fishing pressure, eagerly take a fly. The idea of heading to remote locations where fish see minimal angling pressure is something many of us can relate to—it’s about more than just catching fish; it’s about the experience of fishing in its purest form.

Sharing the Knowledge

Not every angler has the luxury of mentorship in their early days, and Scott understands the challenges of learning fly fishing without guidance. Before the internet and YouTube, he had to figure things out the hard way. Now, his mission is to “pay it forward” by providing clear, easy-to-follow advice for beginners. His content is built around simplicity—turning the camera on during everyday fly fishing tasks, explaining techniques with a beginner in mind, and addressing common questions from followers. This is an approach that truly sets great educators apart—by focusing on accessibility, he’s ensuring that no one has to struggle through the early stages alone.

Through WAC Outdoors, his goal is to inspire, mentor, and motivate others, ensuring that those new to the sport get the solid foundation they need to succeed. In a world where information can sometimes feel overwhelming, having a straightforward and trusted source can make all the difference for a beginner trying to navigate the world of fly fishing.

Quick Takes: Wisdom from the Water

One Piece of Advice for Beginners: Seek guidance when selecting your first fly rod and line. A properly matched setup will make all the difference in your success and enjoyment of the sport. Too many beginners start with mismatched gear, leading to frustration that could have been avoided with expert advice.
If You Could Only Fish One Fly Forever: The Clouser Minnow. Versatile, effective worldwide, and capable of mimicking a wide range of prey—it’s the ultimate confidence fly. This choice speaks volumes about Scott’s practical approach to fly fishing. The Clouser Minnow is a fly that does it all, making it an indispensable pattern for any serious angler.

Where to Follow Along
"Doing a search for WAC Outdoors on any platform will find my content" - Scott
Instagram/Facebook: @Wac_Outdoors
TikTok: @WacOutdoors
Youtube: @WIldaboutchrist

Final Thoughts

Scott's journey is one of discovery, perseverance, and giving back to the fly fishing community. From childhood curiosity to lifelong devotion, his story reminds us why we pick up a fly rod in the first place—for the thrill, the adventure, and the chance to share the experience with others. His dedication to helping beginners is an example of how fly fishing isn’t just about personal success—it’s about growing the sport and fostering a welcoming community.

Be sure to follow Scott Moore on all social media @ WAC Outdoors for more insights, stories, and helpful fly fishing tips!

This interview was conducted by The Fly Box and featured in Casts That Care, our charity-driven fly fishing newsletter.