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The Birth of Leisure Time As summer winds down and the long weekend approaches, anglers across the country prepare for what has become one of the most symbolic moments of the season.. . the Labor Day cast . On the surface, the holiday may seem like nothing more than an extra day to spend on the water. But woven into its history is a surprising connection between labor, leisure, and the growth of fly fishing as an American tradition. Labor Day emerged in the late nineteenth century out of the struggles of industrial workers who fought for shorter hours and humane working conditions. The push for the eight-hour workday, Saturday half-holidays, and the right to rest created something revolutionary: leisure time. Before these reforms, fishing for most people meant sustenance, catching food to survive. With time off finally secured, working families could venture out for recreation, and activities like fly fishing, once confined to elites and wealthy clubs, began to spread to a much wider public. A Holiday for Workers and Families The holiday was first celebrated in 1882 and became a federal observance in 1894, both as a tribute to the achievements of workers and as a recognition of their right to enjoy life beyond the factory floor. Over the decades, the first Monday in September became “summer’s swan song,” a moment for families to escape crowded cities, head for the countryside, and spend time by rivers and lakes. For fly fishers, it became a weekend to step away from the noise of labor and into the rhythm of moving water. The Rise of Fly Fishing in America This shift in American culture coincided with the rise of fly fishing itself. The earliest angling societies had already taken root, such as the Schuylkill Fishing Company of Pennsylvania, founded in 1732. By the mid-nineteenth century, books like The American Angler’s Book  introduced a growing audience to the techniques, patterns, and culture of fly fishing. As industrial labor reforms gave workers more freedom, these traditions were no longer confined to the privileged few. Fly fishing became part of the expanding world of leisure, accessible, aspirational, and deeply tied to the landscape. Escaping to the Outdoors Labor Day weekend offered something even greater: a chance to reconnect with nature. In cities where pollution and industry defined daily life, rivers were often buried, dammed, or spoiled. A rare day off meant an opportunity to travel outward, to clear streams and open air, to find the kind of peace that could not exist in the shadow of smokestacks. Families built traditions around these escapes, and many anglers still consider the holiday their “last cast of summer,” a final trip before the shorter days of autumn arrive. Conservation as a Labor of Love There is also another layer to this story, the labor that sustains the fisheries themselves. The rivers and fish we enjoy today endure because of the tireless work of guides, volunteers, and conservation groups. From stream cleanups to restoration projects and hatchery programs, generations have dedicated themselves to protecting the resource. Their efforts represent a different kind of labor, one born not of obligation but of passion, and one that ensures future generations can find the same solace in casting a fly line. In many ways, this spirit of stewardship mirrors the original purpose of Labor Day, recognizing the dignity of work and its role in shaping a better life. The Legacy The legacy of Labor Day and fly fishing is inseparable. Both grew out of a fight for freedom, freedom from endless toil, freedom to explore the natural world, and freedom to pursue joy on one’s own terms. Today, when an angler steps into a stream over the holiday weekend, they are taking part in a tradition that honors not just the end of summer, but the hard-earned right to rest, to wander, and to cast a line into history.

Celebrating National Recovery Month Through Fly Fishing This September, in honor of National Recovery Month, Reeling in Serenity is launching its much-anticipated 2025 Online Fundraising Auction, running from September 1 at 7:00 a.m. EDT through September 15 at 11:59 p.m. EDT. The auction serves as both a celebration of the healing power of fly fishing and a lifeline for individuals on their journey through recovery. Packed with world-class experiences, fine artwork, and gear, it represents one of the organization’s largest annual efforts to fund its mission. A Mission Rooted in Healing One Cast at a Time Reeling in Serenity is a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals in active recovery from substance use disorder find strength, peace, and purpose through the outdoors. Entirely volunteer-run, the organization provides free fly-fishing retreats guided by what they call the Pillars of Recovery: Health, Acceptance, Spirituality, Purpose, Community, and Service. Each retreat blends time on the water with mentorship and community support, offering participants an experience that is both therapeutic and transformative. The auction is more than a fundraiser—it’s a direct means to ensure that these retreats remain free and accessible to all who need them. Unforgettable Experiences and Artwork The 2025 auction lineup is a testament to the generosity of guides, lodges, artists, and brands across the fly-fishing community. Highlights include: A seven-day, six-night fly-fishing and ecotourism retreat at Krka River Lodge  in Slovenia, offering the chance to explore pristine waters abroad. (Here) A two-night stay at the Cast and Blast Inn in Blue Ridge, GA, accommodating up to four guests. (Here) Guided fishing trips across the country, from Eastern Idaho and the Yellowstone to smallmouth excursions in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and a flats trip in the Florida Keys with Captain Ben Trainer. (Here) A three-day salmon fishing experience for two on private waters of Ireland’s famed Munster Blackwater, courtesy of Glenda Powell Fishing. ( Here) Striking works of art, including fly-fishing paintings, prints, and photography by acclaimed artists like Sarah Landström, Josh Udesen, Diane Michelin, Lisa Savard, Don Ray, and David Vanden Boss. (Here) Fine Spotted Snake River Cutthroat Watercolor Painted on Board by Paul Puckett From bucket-list international adventures to one-of-a-kind artwork, the auction truly offers something for every angler and supporter. Why This Auction Matters Every dollar raised goes directly toward funding Reeling in Serenity’s retreats. Because the nonprofit is entirely volunteer-run, donor support translates into immediate and tangible impact—covering retreat costs like lodging, meals, transportation, and gear for participants. These funds ensure that financial barriers never prevent someone in recovery from accessing the healing that time on the water can provide. The auction is also a way to spread awareness, encouraging the wider fly-fishing and recovery communities to come together around a shared belief: that nature, fellowship, and purpose can change lives. Amplifying the Message This September, Casts That Care  will be supporting Reeling in Serenity’s mission throughout the month. We’ll highlight their story, share auction details, and publish articles that put a spotlight on both the fundraiser and the lives it supports. Our goal is to help amplify the reach of this effort and ensure the auction receives the visibility it deserves. How to Get Involved The auction will be hosted online at Reeling in Serenity’s Auction Site . Bidding opens on September 1 and runs until September 15. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or simply someone who believes in the power of recovery, your participation makes a difference. This September, every cast, every bid, and every story shared helps move recovery forward. Reeling in Serenity’s auction is more than just an event... it’s a testament to hope, resilience, and the healing that happens when fly fishing and community come together.

The Overview Four weeks ago, we launched Behind the Vise  — a grassroots initiative created to support American fly tyers through exposure, community, and, when possible, real material support. The mission remains simple: celebrate the craft, amplify the voices of tyers working at their kitchen tables, and ensure that fly tying stays accessible and alive for the next generation. One Day Left: What the Numbers Tell Us With just one day left to apply , the applicant pool already offers a remarkable snapshot of today’s fly-tying community. While each story is unique, some clear themes are emerging: Tying as therapy and creativity  — Many applicants describe the vise as a place of focus, stress relief, and connection. New blood at the vise  — A majority of tyers are in their first few years, showing fresh growth and enthusiasm. Entrepreneurial drive  — More than half are already selling flies or exploring business opportunities. Need for resources  — The strongest requests remain for materials, industry connections, and promotion — reinforcing exactly why Behind the Vise exists. Key Stats Experience 1–3 years:  38% Less than 1 year:  21% 3–5 years:  17% 5+ years:  24% Selling Status Currently selling:  55% Not yet selling:  45% Requested Support (Overlapping Results) States Represented Applicants come from 26 different states , with especially strong representation from Colorado, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Oregon. One Day Left Applications for this first round close tomorrow, August 31st . Every submission adds another voice to the bigger picture of who today’s fly tyers are — diverse, passionate, and eager to grow. Whether you’ve been tying for a few months or a few decades, this is your last chance to be part of the very first Behind the Vise round!

This interview was conducted by The Fly Box and featured in Casts That Care , our charity-driven fly fishing newsletter. Casts That Care  brings you real stories, big ideas, and the heart of the fly fishing world — all while donating 50% of subscriber fees to a different fly fishing charity each month. Subscribe today and use promo code: SHAKEDOWN15  at checkout for 15% off your first month, and we’ll donate 25% more to our charity of the month From South Carolina Shores to Montana Rivers For Dylan Creech, fly fishing didn’t start in childhood, it began with a cross-country move and a cheap Amazon starter kit. “I didn’t start fly fishing until my wife and I decided to move from Charlotte, NC, to Helena, Montana in late November of 2022,” Dylan says. Growing up in South Carolina, fishing meant piers and beaches with his grandpa, dad, and brothers. No one in his circle fly fished, so the idea didn’t click until his mid-20s. Outdoor passions like mountain biking and climbing opened the door, but it was that first Montana spring that pulled him in. “I rigged up that cheap outfit and quickly fell in love with the sport. I’m the kind of guy who will do something relentlessly if I enjoy it, so it quickly consumed most of my free time.” That obsession, mixed with a big move, leading to new outdoor passions, and diving into something headfirst, is a familiar story for so many who find fly fishing later in life. It proves there isn’t just one path into this world; sometimes all it takes is a change of scenery and a bit of curiosity to ignite something bigger than expected. The First Fish (and the Tug That Stuck) Dylan’s first catch on the fly was a small brook trout from a pond outside Helena. “I still had no idea what I was doing… but that first fish reminded me how much I enjoyed fishing and definitely confirmed my interest in fly fishing.” Weeks later, after countless YouTube videos, dumb questions at the fly shop, and hours of flailing casts, he landed his first trout in moving water. The real breakthrough came on the Missouri River in November 2023. “It was a nice-sized rainbow, about 18 inches, that I hooked on a white woolly bugger. That was a huge moment for me… The tug was, in fact, the drug.” If you’ve ever landed that first fish that really matters, you know exactly what he means. Fly fishing has a way of locking you in for life with one single tug. For Dylan, that rainbow was less about the fish itself and more about a shift in perspective, and a reminder that this wasn’t just a pastime, it was a craft worth chasing. The Birth of Shakedown Stream What started as an Instagram side account became something with a bigger picture. Originally called @shakedown_streamers, Dylan used it as a space to share fishing photos without spamming friends and family. “I didn’t start the account with the idea of growing it into a brand. I just wanted to combine two of my biggest passions — the Dead and fly fishing. ” A friend helped him design a Stealie logo with trout skin patterns, and soon the idea of turning it into a real brand took hold. “For the first time in my life, I’m wholeheartedly going after something I actually want to do to make a living… not just doing what’s needed to pay the bills.” That kind of leap is what makes small brands like this worth following. It isn’t a corporate play or a half-hearted side hustle, it’s someone putting their passion on the line and seeing who it resonates with. And in Dylan’s case, it’s resonating with people who understand both sides of the culture: the river and the music. Deadhead Spirit, River Soul The Grateful Dead runs deep in the fly fishing community, and Dylan’s life. “They played over 2,000 live shows in 30 years, with over 400 unique songs. That sense of art and connection goes hand in hand with fly fishing.” Fly fishing, like the Dead, is about being present in the moment... casting, adjusting, and never playing the same tune twice. “You’re connecting to nature, the river, the fish, and yourself while creating art with each cast.” It’s not just a metaphor; it’s the backbone of Shakedown Stream. The logo, the vibe, even the name itself are built on this idea that creativity, connection, and imperfection are what make both music and fishing beautiful. Building the Vibe Dylan’s vision for Shakedown Stream is about more than hats and hoodies. “I want to use the brand to build a community focused on kindness, gratitude for the beauty of life and the earth, and inclusivity.” When he started fishing, he didn’t have a mentor. That isolation shaped his mission. “I would love for this brand to ‘send it back down the ladder.’ In other words, I want it to be something that welcomes people who might feel excluded from fly fishing.” That message hits home. Fly fishing has long wrestled with an image problem; a sport that can feel exclusive, intimidating, or even gate-kept. Shakedown Stream pushes against that. It’s an open door, an invitation to join a jam session where everyone’s welcome, no matter what gear you fish or how many casts you’ve blown. Challenges and First Wins Launching the first merch drop was nerve-wracking. “I was terrified it wasn’t going to land. My goal for the year was just to get to 1,000 followers and make a single sale. As of now, I’ve got about 630 followers and 15 sales — which blows my mind.” One of the coolest moments came while wearing his logo-ed gear in Ouray, Colorado. “The bartender, Seth, asked me where I got my hat and shirt. It was the first time I ever told someone it was my brand. That moment made me realize a dream was actually possible.” Someone has already gotten the Shakedown Stream logo tattooed. Dylan didn’t ask them to. “They just liked the logo and got it tattooed. Won’t forget that either.” Moments like that. Whether it’s a bartender’s compliment or a stranger’s tattoo; prove that even the smallest brands can carry a real sense of meaning. It’s not about numbers yet, it’s about connection. And connection has always been the point. Looking Ahead Dylan’s working on a winter product line, with an eye toward water-ready gear and sustainable materials like recycled plastics and hemp. He hopes to move into conservation partnerships as the brand grows. “Part of my business goals includes partnering with a conservation project — ideally something local to Montana, Trout Unlimited, MAPS, or even a rotating list of organizations that help preserve the rivers and trout populations we cherish.” The future for Shakedown Stream feels open-ended in the best possible way. Like a good Dead jam, it’s less about a rigid setlist and more about where the moment leads. “I have some big ideas for products that are very much in the works. Follow along for updates.” Where to Find Shakedown Stream Check out Dylan’s work and grab gear at the Shakedown Stream Website Follow along on Instagram: @shakedown_stream This interview was conducted by The Fly Box and featured in Casts That Care , our charity-driven fly fishing newsletter. Casts That Care  brings you real stories, big ideas, and the heart of the fly fishing world — all while donating 50% of subscriber fees to a different fly fishing charity each month. Subscribe today and use promo code: SHAKEDOWN15  at checkout for 15% off your first month, and we’ll donate 25% more to our charity of the month

The Birth of America’s First Angling Club In 1732, along the banks of Philadelphia’s Schuylkill River, a small group of men established what would become the first angling club in the Thirteen Colonies, the Schuylkill Fishing Company.

A Timely Dive With the Burning Man festival underway in the Nevada desert, it’s a perfect moment to explore the Burning Man fly... a tungsten-beaded jig nymph that’s been quietly earning respect among stillwater anglers. While the fly shares a name with the famous festival, it has no direct connection to the desert gathering. Instead, it reflects the ongoing evolution of fly design, innovation in materials, and the ways anglers adapt their gear to seasonal challenges. Origins of the Pattern The Burning Man fly was developed with the help of Ken Pennington of Joyce, Washington, in collaboration with Big Y Fly Co. Pennington was known for experimenting with effective stillwater patterns that could perform in harsh winter conditions. He and Big Y Fly Co refined the Burning Man to be simple, durable, and above all, effective in cold-water fisheries where trout often hold deep. The fly was designed as a year-round stillwater nymph, not just a winter pattern. Its effectiveness across seasons gave it staying power. While many stillwater flies mimic specific insects like chironomids or callibaetis, the Burning Man functions as an attractor nymph... its flashy bead and slim profile making it visible and enticing to trout without being overly imitative. The Role of Tungsten Beads When tungsten beads became widely available in the 1990s and 2000s, they transformed nymph design. Tungsten’s density—almost twice that of brass—allowed patterns to sink quickly and maintain better depth control. The Burning Man takes full advantage of this innovation: Fast sink rate: Ideal for dropping into deep stillwater zones where trout feed. Jig-style hook: Rides point-up, reducing snags along the bottom. Versatility: Works under indicators, in Euro nymphing rigs, or on slow retrieves. This combination makes the Burning Man a reliable choice for anglers fishing lakes, ponds, and reservoirs, especially when trout are lethargic or suspended in the water column. Comparisons and Relatives The Burning Man belongs to a larger family of modern tungsten nymphs that prioritize sink rate and durability. Notable comparisons include: Copper John (John Barr, 1990s): A river-focused tungsten bead nymph that became a global standard. Perdigon nymphs (Spain/France, competition fishing): Ultra-slim, resin-coated nymphs designed for rapid descent and Euro nymphing. Balanced leeches & chironomids (stillwater staples): Like the Burning Man, these use tungsten to achieve lifelike presentation in lakes. What sets the Burning Man apart is its balance between attractor and imitation. It doesn’t strictly mimic one insect, but its slim, dark body and bead profile make it suggestive enough to work across many scenarios. Availability and Variations Big Y Fly Co commercialized the Burning Man in multiple variations: Colors: Orange, pink, silver/red. Sizes: Commonly size 12 and 14. Hook style: Jig hook for durability and snag prevention. These variations give anglers flexibility depending on local conditions. The brighter beads (pink, orange) excel in murky water or during low-light conditions, while the subtler silver/red works when trout are pressured or selective. The Burning Man in Today’s Fly Boxes Although not as universally famous as the Copper John or Prince Nymph, the Burning Man has developed a loyal following, especially among anglers who target stillwater trout throughout the year. Its design reflects the priorities of modern fly fishing: fast-sinking, versatile, and adaptable across techniques. For anglers exploring new stillwater waters or facing challenging conditions, the Burning Man is often a confidence fly—simple, effective, and dependable.

This interview was conducted by The Fly Box and featured in Casts That Care , our charity-driven fly fishing newsletter. Casts That Care  brings you real stories, big ideas, and the heart of the fly fishing world — all while donating 50% of subscriber fees to a different fly fishing charity each month. Subscribe today and use promo code: HERON15  at checkout for 15% off your first month, and we’ll donate 25% more to fly fishing charities! The First Cast For Jessica Hamilton, fly fishing wasn’t a childhood pastime, it was a spark that lit in 2021 when her close friend, Tyler Morehouse, handed her a fly rod. “What started as curiosity quickly became a shared passion, and we’ve been inseparable on the water ever since,” she says. From long days on the river to late nights at the vise, the two pushed each other to learn and stay rooted in the Catskills’ rich fly fishing traditions. Her first fish on the fly, a brook trout from a tiny Pennsylvania creek, sealed the deal. “I was completely hooked, the colors, the moment, the thrill of it all.” An origin story like this one matters, because it’s proof that you don’t need a lifetime on the water to become deeply connected to it. In just a few seasons, Jessica’s gone from her first trout to guiding others through the same milestone moment. It’s a reminder that passion accelerates experience. From Obsession to Calling What began as personal passion quickly became something bigger. “There’s nothing like watching someone catch their first trout and knowing I helped make that moment happen,” Jessica says. Guiding wasn’t something she chased, it found her. “People kind of decided that for me,” she laughs. Requests to take folks out kept coming until she realized she already had a client base. “If I already have it, why not lean into it and turn this into something real?” She chose to guide at home. “I’ve lived in New York my whole life, and the Catskills have always felt like home. It’s where I feel connected, confident, and at peace, and now I get to share that with others.” Magic in the Mountains Ask her what makes the Catskills special, and she paints a picture: early morning light on the water, the rhythm of familiar pools, quiet you can only find deep in the hollows. But the real magic? The people. “So many come back year after year, not just for the fishing, but because this place is part of their story. There’s a deep sense of tradition here, a passing down of memories and meaning. This really puts an emphasis on tradition, because it links today’s Catskills anglers to generations before them. Guiding in a place like this isn’t just about showing someone where to cast, it’s about handing them a small piece of history. The Story Behind Hemlock & Heron The name was born on a drive to the river. “We didn’t know it at the time, but we were building something that would eventually become part of who I am,” Jessica recalls. Heron felt right immediately, graceful, patient, always observant at the water’s edge. Hemlock came from the trees she loves along her favorite streams, ancient, grounding, essential to the Catskills ecosystem. “Together, Hemlock & Heron became more than just a name, it became a reflection of my values: conservation, connection, and honoring the quiet beauty of these wild places.” Guiding with Purpose For Jessica, guiding isn’t just about putting fish in the net, it’s about intention. “I make sure every trip includes some element of education, whether it’s about trout behavior, river health, or the role native plants like hemlocks play in keeping the ecosystem in balance.” She believes the community could do more for native species, especially brook trout. “They’re part of the soul of these mountains, and if we’re not actively working to protect them, we risk losing something truly irreplaceable. This is where her approach really stands out, because conservation isn’t an “extra” in her trips, it’s the foundation. It’s baked into every cast, every conversation, every release. That’s how awareness moves from being a talking point to becoming a habit. Empowerment and Realness Jessica’s voice resonates with women and younger anglers who follow her journey. “Whether they’re picking up a fly rod for the first time or trying to find confidence in the outdoors, that connection and support is what keeps me going.” She believes her generation brings an important honesty to the sport. “It’s not always big fish and perfect conditions — and I think showing the real side of it helps more people feel like they belong here.” From the River to the Brewery? Recently, Jessica became an ambassador for Roscoe Brewing Co., a partnership that made perfect sense. “They’re deeply rooted in the Catskills and genuinely committed to supporting the local fly fishing community.” Beer and fly fishing, she says, share the same rhythm: “After a day on the water — whether you’ve landed fish or just soaked up the scenery — there’s something special about gathering with friends, cracking open a cold one, and swapping stories.” What’s Next Jessica’s schedule is stacked, she’s now an ambassador for Hex Fly Co. and part of the Royal Wulff Products pro team. She’s planning a Colorado trip this fall, with creative collaborations and brand partnerships on the horizon. “I’m excited to keep building those relationships and see where it all leads.” Where to Find Jessica Follow along on Instagram at @jess.h_hemlockheron  for guiding days, conservation work, and everyday life on the water. To book a trip in the Catskills, reach out at jessicahamilton@hemlock-heron.org  or send her a DM. This interview was conducted by The Fly Box and featured in Casts That Care , our charity-driven fly fishing newsletter. Casts That Care  brings you real stories, big ideas, and the heart of the fly fishing world — all while donating 50% of subscriber fees to a different fly fishing charity each month. Subscribe today and use promo code: HERON15  at checkout for 15% off your first month, and we’ll donate 25% more to fly fishing charities!

When most anglers think of fly fishing, images of bushy dry flies drifting across a glassy current or bright streamers swinging through riffles often come to mind. Yet beneath the surface, quite literally, the unsung heroes of modern fly fishing are nymphs—flies designed to imitate aquatic insects in their juvenile, underwater stages. The global market for these patterns is not just holding steady; it’s growing, and it offers one of the clearest windows into how fly fishing is evolving in the 21st century.

The Overview Three weeks ago, we launched Behind the Vise  — a grassroots initiative created to support American fly tyers through exposure, community, and, when possible, real material support. The goal has always been simple: to celebrate the craft, amplify the stories of tiers working at their kitchen tables, and ensure that fly tying remains accessible and alive for the next generation. Three Weeks In: What We’re Seeing The first wave of applications has offered a remarkable look at the people who make up today’s fly-tying community. While each applicant’s story is unique, several clear themes have emerged: Tying as more than a hobby  — For many, fly tying is not just about filling fly boxes. It’s a form of therapy, a source of mental clarity, and a creative outlet that builds resilience and connection. A new generation of tyers  — A significant number of applicants are in their first one to three years of tying, signaling fresh growth in the community and a hunger to learn. Entrepreneurial spirit  — From side hustles to dreams of opening shops, many applicants are already thinking about how to turn their craft into sustainable businesses. Community and legacy  — Applicants repeatedly described tying as a bridge: a way to honor family legacies, teach kids, or bring friends together. Several veterans and mentors emphasized the healing and unifying power of the vise. Overwhelming need for support  — The most common requests by far are for materials, tools, and industry connections. This reinforces our mission to connect everyday tyers with the resources and recognition they need to thrive. Key Stats Gender Men — 71% Women — 29% Experience 1–3 years — 35% Less than 1 year — 26% 5+ years — 24% 3–5 years — 15% Requested Support (Overlapping Results) Materials — 85% Industry Connections — 82% Exposure / Promotion — 59% Tools — 56% Business Help — 44% Financial Help — 29% Fish Mentioned By Fly Type (Normalized to 100%) Trout — 42% Bass — 15% Saltwater (general) — 10% Panfish — 6% Steelhead — 4% Musky — 3% Salmon — 3% Other (1–2% each): Striper, Redfish, Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, Rockfish, Tarpon, Permit, Bonefish, Fluke, Carp, Arctic Grayling, Predator, Streamers Motivations (Why They Tie) Stress relief / mental health & flow state — 27% Creativity & artistic outlet — 24% Family / friend connections — 18% Deeper connection to fly fishing — 15% Functional / personal achievement — 15% Long-Term Goals Selling more flies / business growth — 27% Open shop / entrepreneurship — 18% Community building & teaching — 18% Signature tyer / bulk supplier — 12% Using tying as therapy / helping others — 12% Media, content creation, brand expansion — 12% One Week Left Applications for this first round close in just one week (On August 31st). Every story we receive helps show that this craft is alive, diverse, and worth investing in. Whether you’re new to tying or have years of experience, this is your chance to be part of the first Behind the Vise  support boxes. If you haven’t applied yet, now’s the time. It’s free, it’s simple, and it’s the start of something bigger. [Apply Now →]

A New Normal for Anglers on the Coast In the last five years, hurricanes have battered the Gulf and Atlantic Coasts with relentless force: Ian (2022), Helene and Milton (2024), and now Erin (2025). For coastal anglers, guides, and marinas, these storms are no longer rare catastrophes—they’re recurring events reshaping the very waters they depend on.

The Shift Beyond Wild Harvest For decades, wild-capture fisheries and traditional aquaculture have dominated the conversation around seafood. But as global demand for protein surges and pressure on wild stocks intensifies, the industry is shifting toward more innovative and sustainable systems. Among the most exciting developments: land-based salmon farming and seaweed cultivation .

How We Got Here: Breaking Down the $1.1 Trillion Figure According to a July 2025 report from Business Wire, the global Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping market is valued at approximately USD 1.1 trillion, with strong expected growth projecting to reach USD 2 trillion by 2034, propelled by a healthy 7.2 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR).