PGH Fly Co.: A Fresh Cast on Tradition and Community

A Dive into Fly Fishing and Creativity with PGH Fly Co. Founder

When you think about the art and passion behind fly fishing, it’s hard not to appreciate the dedication of those who have turned a lifelong hobby into a thriving business. That’s exactly what Kurt Shaffer, the founder of PGH Fly Co., has done. Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Kurt embodies the essence of ingenuity, grit, and community that the Steel City is known for. From tying custom flies to balancing family life and a full-time job, Kurt’s journey is one of creativity, hard work, and a deep connection to the water.

I recently had the pleasure of connecting with Kurt to discuss his path into fly fishing, the evolution of PGH Fly Co., and the stories that have shaped his approach to business and life. His candidness and humor made it clear that he’s not just a businessman—he’s an artist and a storyteller, with roots firmly planted in his community and craft, throughout this article you will see examples of flies that Kurt has created (and are for sale here)!

Early Days: Finding Fly Fishing

Lake Erie Steelhead Alley

Kurt’s journey into fishing began as many do: with a Zebco reel and childhood curiosity. “Like many Western PA fishermen, I started off with a Zebco at age 4 on the first day of trout season,” Kurt recalls. The next year, he was steelhead fishing in Erie, making weekend trips with his father. While his dad never took to fly fishing himself, Kurt’s introduction to it came years later during a family trip to Alaska in 2007.

“We were fishing for lake trout at Lake Louise and needed grayling for bait,” he explains. Using an Adams dry fly on a borrowed fly rod, Kurt discovered the magic of the sport. “I could have stayed there all day and caught those grayling,” he says. Though it would be years before he picked up a fly rod again, that moment planted the seed for what would become an obsession.

Tying Flies: From Hobby to Art

Kurt’s journey into fly tying is a story of curiosity and determination. It began with a simple fishing lure pen ("It was a legit swim bait without hooks with a pen insert") he bought it at a holiday market in fourth grade. “I was absolutely fascinated. I thought, when I got older, I would be a lure maker,” he says. Fast forward to his early days of fly fishing, and Kurt’s natural creativity led him to buy a cheap tying kit and start experimenting. “I began with egg patterns, moved to the classics, and eventually started making my own patterns,” he shares.

What kept him motivated was the thrill of success. “What really made me stick with it is that a good amount of them actually worked,” Kurt explains. Today, his patterns, like the KO Shiner, are a testament to his dedication and ingenuity.

Building PGH Fly Co.: A DIY Passion Project

PGH Fly Co. officially launched in 2023, but the idea began much earlier as a winter boredom project. “I started selling flies to friends and family, and it just kind of grew from there,” Kurt explained. What began with classic patterns soon evolved into selling his unique designs, which gained significant interest online.

Kurt’s DIY ethos runs deep. “I really want anything you get from PGH Fly Co. to be uniquely mine,” he says. From hand-pressing shirts (a skill his wife mastered) to creating dubbing from his kids’ pet rabbits, Kurt’s hands-on approach ensures that every product has a personal touch. The only exceptions are tying tools and printed stickers, though he’s actively exploring ways to produce those himself.

The KO Shiner: A Signature Fly

One of PGH Fly Co.’s standout creations is the KO Shiner, a fly that Kurt considers a personal milestone. Named after his father, Kurt Orie Shaffer, the pattern reflects both family ties and technical innovation. “In 2018, I discovered craft fur and alcohol ink markers,” Kurt says. After several iterations, he perfected the design in 2024, blending fine polyester fibers and coarse craft fur for optimal action in the water.

“The KO Shiner is really taking off,” Kurt notes, adding with pride, “I think you’re going to start seeing them in a lot of places.”

Challenges and Balance: Life Behind the Vise

Balancing PGH Fly Co. with family life and a full-time job as a refrigeration tech is no small feat. Kurt starts his days early, tying flies from 5 to 7 a.m. before getting his daughter ready for school. “My days are hectic, I don’t get enough sleep, and I’m running on caffeine,” he admits. But despite the chaos, he’s found a rhythm that works. “I always make time for family,” he emphasizes. “My kids won’t be kids forever.”

This commitment to family life underscores the values that drive Kurt both personally and professionally. It’s clear that his passion for fly fishing is matched only by his dedication to being present for his loved ones, a balance that shapes the ethos of PGH Fly Co. and reflects the care he puts into everything he does.

Giving Back: Inspiring the Next Generation

For Kurt, fly fishing is more than a business—it’s a way to inspire others. One of his favorite initiatives is installing fly stations on local streams for Mentored Youth Day. “I know how small of a spark is needed to create a blazing inferno,” he says. Whether it’s introducing kids to fly fishing or sparking an adult’s curiosity, Kurt’s goal is to share the joy of the sport with others.

This dedication to mentorship and outreach speaks volumes about Kurt’s character and the heart of PGH Fly Co. It’s not just about selling flies—it’s about cultivating a community and passing on a love for the outdoors. In a world increasingly focused on quick transactions and impersonal interactions, Kurt’s focus on connection and inspiration feels refreshing. His efforts to engage with both youth and adults ensure that the sport’s legacy continues, one fly station and curious angler at a time.

Lessons from the Water

Kurt’s approach to life and business is deeply rooted in the lessons he’s learned on the water. “I’ve learned to seek out short moments of perfection in all aspects of life,” he reflects. Whether it’s tying the perfect fly, experiencing the perfect drift, or savoring the perfect day, he’s discovered that these fleeting moments are what make the journey worthwhile.

This philosophy—of embracing the transience of perfection—extends beyond fly fishing. As Kurt notes, perfection often exists only in brief snapshots. “What’s often perfect today, tomorrow will be imperfect,” he says. Yet, this impermanence doesn’t diminish its value. Instead, it fuels his passion to continue seeking those moments of clarity and connection.

His reflections remind us of the broader lessons nature imparts if we take the time to listen. “Sometimes it’s best not to cast the rod but to take a minute and appreciate your surroundings,” he advises. Fly fishing, for Kurt, isn’t just about catching fish; it’s about observing and engaging with the environment. Nature, he believes, is the best fishing guide, offering clues and lessons for those willing to pause and pay attention. This perspective underscores not only his approach to the sport but also his commitment to living intentionally—a lesson that resonates well beyond the water.”

Looking Ahead

As PGH Fly Co. grows, Kurt has ambitious plans for the future. “I’m hoping to have a few of my products in fly shops scattered around the country,” he shares. This step would mark a significant milestone for his brand, introducing his innovative patterns to a broader audience while reinforcing the authenticity and craftsmanship that define PGH Fly Co.

New projects, like the KO Black Nose Dace pattern, showcase Kurt’s ongoing drive to innovate and refine his craft. His tying tools, which he’s particularly excited about, are poised to offer fly fishers high-quality equipment that aligns with the PGH ethos of functionality and creativity. Each of these ventures reflects not just a business goal but a continuation of his commitment to providing something unique to the fly fishing community.

What stands out is Kurt’s ability to balance these big dreams with his unwavering dedication to his craft and community. Despite the demands of running a business, he remains deeply connected to the values that started it all: creativity, family, and a passion for sharing the joys of fly fishing. As he navigates this growth, Kurt’s vision for PGH Fly Co. is as much about enriching the sport and its community as it is about personal success.

Closing Thoughts

Kurt’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and resilience. Whether you’re an experienced fly fisher or a beginner, his story is a reminder that success often comes from embracing your roots and staying true to your craft.

You can find PGH Fly Co. on Instagram, @pghflyco, or at www.pghflyco.com. If you’re looking for custom flies (and even earrings that look like flies) that blend artistry with function, or simply want to support a business that gives back, Kurt and PGH Fly Co. are the reel deal!

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