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Introduction Fly reels started as simple line holders—a way to store extra line while an angler fished. There were no sophisticated drags, no adjustable tension, and certainly no smooth resistance to slow down a running fish. Instead, anglers had to palm the spool or apply manual pressure to keep control, often leading to lost fish and snapped leaders.

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 in-depth stories, expert insights, and the best of the fly fishing community. Our content is always ad-free, never sponsored, and dedicated to providing unique, high-quality information. Subscribe today  and use promo code: "Bradysnets"  at checkout for 15% off and we'll donate 25% MORE to charity for exclusive interviews, insider tips, and to support fly fishing charities with every subscription—50% of all subscription fees go directly to a different fly fishing charity each month! Brady's Handmade Nets Some of the best businesses don’t begin in boardrooms or through grand plans—they start with a simple moment, an accident, or even a lost net. That’s exactly how Brady’s Handmade Nets came to life. What began as a son borrowing—and ultimately losing—his father’s net turned into a legacy of craftsmanship that is now known across the fly fishing community. From One Lost Net to a Thriving Business The story of Brady’s Handmade Nets begins with a mistake. A lost net led to a replacement, and that replacement met an unfortunate end when it broke under the weight of a fishing mishap. Instead of buying another store-bought net, the Bradys decided to build their own. Using the broken hoop as a template, they crafted their first handmade net. The result was more than just functional—it was a work of art. “That evening, we posted a picture to Facebook, and by nightfall, we had a buyer,” said Brady. “It wasn’t long before custom orders started trickling in.” As demand grew, the Bradys made the bold decision to turn their hobby into a full-time business. Today, their shop in Spartanburg, South Carolina, serves as the headquarters of Brady’s Handmade Nets, a company born from necessity and fueled by passion. The Path to Fly Fishing and Craftsmanship Before entering the world of net-making, Brady Sr. worked in NASCAR, while his son, Joshua, was a welder. Though they came from different industries, fly fishing was always in the background. “I was introduced to fly fishing by my grandfather in my teens but never really took it up until many years later,” Mr. Brady recalled. “It became a joint venture between Joshua and me about ten years ago.” For Joshua, fly fishing was always on the horizon. He and his father started with traditional spinning gear, but the stories of his great-grandfather’s fly tying inspired them to take the next step. A rod-building kit gifted at Christmas sealed the deal, and the two found themselves fully immersed in the art of fly fishing. “ Fly fishing was always intriguing as the next level in our journey as trout fishermen,” Joshua said. “We have been chucking and ducking ever since.” A Father-Son Partnership on and off the Water Building a business with family can be a challenge, and the Bradys felt that firsthand in their early days of working together. The first six months were a learning curve as they navigated their new roles side by side. However, the process strengthened their relationship, not only in the shop but also on the water. “The best part has been experiencing the satisfaction of completing a challenging build together,” Brady shared. “Nothing tops putting the first coat of finish on a net we weren’t sure we could build.” Their bond extends beyond business. Each June, they host the Brady’s Manly Fishing Trip, a gathering of four generations from New York, Florida, Indiana, and South Carolina for a week of fly fishing. It’s a testament to how their business is more than just a company—it’s a family tradition. The Art Behind the Craft Brady’s Handmade Nets are more than just tools for anglers; they are personal stories encased in wood and epoxy. Each net is custom-built with a blend of functionality and artistic design, often incorporating meaningful elements from clients’ lives. “When it comes to the design process, we marry clients’ ideas with materials that blend with the story they are trying to tell, [and...] "We have built nets in honor of fallen soldiers, family members, and even fur babies that have passed.” Their signature creation, the “Lightning Net,” is unlike anything else in the industry. Using a microwave transformer, they run an electrical charge through the wood, creating a unique, branching pattern. The charred wood is then filled with colored epoxy and finished with a caramel stain. “I haven’t seen anyone else attempt to electrocute a net... it’s become a signature of ours.” The Surprising Reach of a Handmade Net The global demand for Brady’s Handmade Nets has been a pleasant surprise. What started as a personal project has now reached fly anglers across the world. Their nets have landed in the hands of trout fishermen in Japan, barramundi anglers in Australia, and grayling enthusiasts in Alaska. No matter the waters, their craftsmanship has found a home with those who appreciate the finer details of a well-made net. “It’s been surprising how many areas of the world offer fly fishing opportunities,” Brady said. “We have built nets for anglers from coast to coast in the U.S.A. and across the globe.” Looking ahead, the Bradys have big plans. They hope to expand their team, possibly bringing on a social media manager and a skilled craftsman who shares their passion. With a few new net features in development, they continue to push the boundaries of their craft while staying true to the tradition that started it all. Where to Find Brady’s Handmade Nets For those looking to own a handcrafted Brady’s net, their work can be found online at www.Bradyshandmadenets.com  or on social media under Brady’s Handmade Nets on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube @Bradyshandmadenets. Their nets are also available at Headwaters Outfitters in Western North Carolina and Colville Outfitters in Hamburg, NY. From a lost net to a family legacy, Brady’s Handmade Nets proves that sometimes, the best businesses aren’t planned—they’re built, one net at a time. 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 in-depth stories, expert insights, and the best of the fly fishing community. Our content is always ad-free, never sponsored, and dedicated to providing unique, high-quality information. Subscribe today  and use promo code: "Bradysnets"  at checkout for 15% off and we'll donate 25% MORE to charity for exclusive interviews, insider tips, and to support fly fishing charities with every subscription—50% of all subscription fees go directly to a different fly fishing charity each month!

Introduction Fly fishing is full of legendary patterns that have stood the test of time, but what about the ones that didn’t? Over the years, some flies that were once staples in every angler’s fly box  have quietly disappeared. Whether they were outperformed by new materials, became less relevant with changing fishing styles, or simply fell out of favor, these flies were once beloved but are now largely forgotten .

Introduction

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 in-depth stories, expert insights, and the best of the fly fishing community. Our content is always ad-free, never sponsored, and dedicated to providing unique, high-quality information. Subscribe today  and use promo code: "WACOutdoors"  at checkout for 15% off and we'll donate 25% MORE to charity for exclusive interviews, insider tips, and to support fly fishing charities with every subscription—50% of all subscription fees go directly to a different fly fishing charity each month! 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. Rice Lake, Ontario, Canada 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. Scotts's Tik Tok 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. Casts That Care  brings you in-depth stories, expert insights, and the best of the fly fishing community. Our content is always ad-free, never sponsored, and dedicated to providing unique, high-quality information. Subscribe today  and use promo code: "WACOutdoors"  at checkout for 15% off and we'll donate 25% MORE to charity for exclusive interviews, insider tips, and to support fly fishing charities with every subscription—50% of all subscription fees go directly to a different fly fishing charity each month!

Introduction In the world of fly fishing, the weight of a fly rod is a critical factor that influences casting performance, line selection, and overall angling success. But how did the standardized fly rod weight system come into existence? This article explores the history and development of fly rod weight numbers, shedding light on the key figures and decisions that shaped this essential aspect of the sport.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) has launched a new initiative to support youth in extended foster care through fly fishing. In partnership with Idaho Fish and Game and the nonprofit Idaho Sportsmen, Access & Opportunity, this program provides free fishing licenses to eligible foster youth aged 18 to 20, along with one foster parent per household.

Throughout American history, several U.S. presidents have been devoted fly fishermen, finding solace in the art of casting and the tranquility of nature. These leaders were not just occasional anglers but lifelong enthusiasts of fly fishing. In honor of Presidents' Day, here are the presidents who were truly passionate about fly fishing. 1. Grover Cleveland (22nd and 24th President) Grover Cleveland was an ardent angler who deeply valued fly fishing. He frequently fished in the Adirondacks and Cape Cod, preferring remote locations where he could fully enjoy the experience. Cleveland even authored Fishing and Shooting Sketches  in 1906, highlighting his dedication to the sport. 2. Herbert Hoover (31st President) Herbert Hoover was a lifelong fly fisherman and conservationist. He frequently visited trout streams, including those near his Rapidan Camp in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. Hoover believed that fishing was essential for mental well-being and once said, "Fishing is much more than fish. It is the great occasion when we may return to the fine simplicity of our forefathers." 3. Jimmy Carter (39th President) Jimmy Carter is one of the most dedicated fly fishers to ever hold office. He tied his own flies, fished extensively across the United States, and wrote about his experiences in multiple books. His love for the sport has remained strong throughout his life, and he continues to advocate for conservation and fly fishing education. 4. Dwight D. Eisenhower (34th President) Eisenhower was a dedicated angler who spent much of his free time fly fishing, particularly at Camp David and in Western rivers. He viewed fishing as a way to clear his mind and restore his energy while in office. 5. Calvin Coolidge (30th President) Coolidge enjoyed fly fishing, particularly during his summers in the Black Hills of South Dakota. He was known for his quiet and reserved nature, and fishing provided him with an opportunity to escape from public attention and enjoy solitude. 6. Theodore Roosevelt (26th President) A legendary outdoorsman, Theodore Roosevelt was a lifelong fisherman who frequently engaged in fly fishing. He fished in rivers across the U.S. and even during his post-presidency expedition in South America. His deep appreciation for conservation helped protect numerous fishing waters across the country. 7. George H.W. Bush (41st President) Bush was a lifelong fly fisherman who loved casting in Maine’s Kennebunk River and other prime fishing destinations. He often fished with friends and family, making it a cherished pastime throughout his life. Other Presidents with Fly Fishing Experience While not lifelong fly fishermen, other presidents such as Franklin D. Roosevelt and Barack Obama have tried fly fishing and enjoyed its peaceful nature. Franklin D. Roosevelt, despite his physical limitations due to polio, fished in New York’s Hudson Valley and took great enjoyment in the sport. Barack Obama had a well-publicized fly fishing experience in Montana, where he waded into the waters and cast a line, appreciating the patience and skill required for fly fishing. Lyndon B. Johnson occasionally fished on his Texas ranch, though he was more known for conventional fishing methods. Similarly, Richard Nixon took part in some fly fishing outings, particularly while staying at Camp David, though he was never a dedicated angler. Fly fishing has been a cherished activity among American presidents, providing them with an opportunity to unwind and connect with nature. Whether standing knee-deep in a rushing river or casting from a quiet lakeside, these leaders found moments of peace through the rhythmic motion of fly fishing

For two decades, the Two Fly Tournament  has stood as one of the premier competitive fly fishing events in the country. But it’s more than just a contest—it’s a movement, a community-driven effort that has channeled millions of dollars into charities benefiting Wyoming’s wildlife, conservation efforts, and social programs. As the 20th annual tournament  approaches on May 7-9, 2025 , anglers and philanthropists alike are gearing up for an event that blends sport with purpose.

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 in-depth stories, expert insights, and the best of the fly fishing community. Our content is always ad-free, never sponsored, and dedicated to providing unique, high-quality information. Subscribe today  and use promo code: COLTER  at checkout for 15% off and we'll donate 25% MORE to charity for exclusive interviews, insider tips, and to support fly fishing charities with every subscription—50% of all subscription fees go directly to a different fly fishing charity each month! The Inspiration Behind Colter Backcountry In the world of fly fishing, innovation is often inspired by necessity. We sat down with Patrick and Daniel, the brothers behind Colter Backcountry, to hear their take on the need for better gear in remote locations sparked their movement. After completing the Continental Divide Trail (CDT), they realized that traditional fishing equipment wasn’t designed for backcountry adventures. Their solution? Crafting ultralight, durable gear that allows anglers to reach the most secluded waters without the usual bulk and hassle. From the CDT to Colter Backcountry: The Journey Begins Patrick Bauman Founder + CEO Patrick, the original founder, started working on the concept for Colter Backcountry as soon as he completed the CDT in 2021. Backpacking for months on end opened his eyes to the importance of minimalist, functional gear. “That was the first time we were immersed in the ultralight backpacking community,”  he recalled. “We realized how essential minimal gear is to travel in the backcountry effectively. A lot of our favorite fishing gear—like packs, nets, and waders—just wasn’t appropriate for backpacking.” Recognizing this gap, he began designing products specifically for anglers who venture into hard-to-reach places. As the business grew and neared product launch, his brother Daniel joined in, and the two have been running Colter Backcountry together ever since. Daniel Bauman, Chief Fishing Officer The company’s name, Colter Backcountry , is a tribute to John Colter, a legendary frontiersman from the Lewis and Clark expedition. When granted an honorable discharge, Colter chose to return to the American West, exploring vast wilderness areas, trading with Native American tribes, and ultimately pioneering the exploration of the Greater Yellowstone region. “Colter Backcountry was founded in the spirit of Colter’s rugged journey,” Innovation Meets the Backcountry: The Thorofare Net One of Colter Backcountry’s most innovative products is the Thorofare Net , a patent-pending collapsible fishing net designed for backcountry anglers. The motivation? Pure necessity. “When backpacking or day hiking, it was a huge pain to strap a net to the outside of a pack where it inevitably gets hung up on everything,” Patrick explained. “It’s a bulky item that doesn’t stow well and takes up a ridiculous amount of space. On the other hand, if you go without a net, you inevitably find yourself hooked into a fish that you really need a net to land.” Their solution? A net that functions just as well as a traditional model but can be easily stowed away. During early development, Patrick and Daniel gathered feedback from fellow anglers, quickly realizing that their personal frustrations were widely shared. This validation gave them the confidence to pursue full-scale production, and today, the Thorofare Net has gained serious traction in the fly fishing community. Built for the Wild: Durability & Customer Feedback One of the biggest questions any angler might have about a collapsible net is durability. Can it withstand the rigors of the backcountry? The team at Colter Backcountry took this challenge seriously, working with materials engineers to develop a rugged yet lightweight solution. The result? A nylon blend reinforced with glass fiber  that stands up to water exposure, UV rays, and the demanding conditions of remote fishing trips. Understanding that anything can happen in the wild, they also back their product with a lifetime warranty . “If you break one, we’ll fix or replace it for free,” they stated confidently. Customer feedback has played a crucial role in Colter Backcountry’s development. The company actively engages with anglers through social media, direct surveys, and a contact form on their website. “We love when people reach out with suggestions on our current products or ideas for future developments,” emphasizing their commitment to continuous improvement. What’s Next for Colter Backcountry? But innovation doesn’t stop there. Colter Backcountry has more gear in the pipeline. “This year, we’ll be coming out with some pretty slick solutions for carrying gear and rods into the backcountry,” (you can stay tuned on their websites 'gear page' ) The brothers envision expanding their product line beyond nets to include a full suite of backcountry-specific fly fishing gear . Their upcoming products may feature ultralight carrying systems  that help anglers transport their rods and reels more efficiently, compact wader storage solutions , and other lightweight, durable accessories  designed to improve the backcountry fishing experience. Every product is crafted with the same attention to detail and functionality that made the Thorofare Net a success. A Commitment to Conservation Beyond crafting game-changing gear, Colter Backcountry is dedicated to protecting the wild places that inspire their products. They currently sponsor two major conservation initiatives: The Flyathlon  is a race series that raises money for native fish conservation. Fish for Garbage  organizes large-scale river cleanups. “We plan to continue supporting these organizations and are always open to additional conservation partnerships,” Where to Find Colter Backcountry For those eager to try the Thorofare Net  or stay up to date on Colter Backcountry’s latest innovations, the best place to go is colterbackcountry.com . They also keep an active presence on Instagram (@colterbackcountry) , where they share product updates, backcountry fishing tips, and stories from their community of anglers. With a foundation built on adventure, innovation, and a deep love for the wilderness, Colter Backcountry is redefining what it means to fish in the backcountry. Whether you’re hiking miles into a remote alpine lake or wading through an untouched river, they’re designing gear to help you travel lighter and fish farther . 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 in-depth stories, expert insights, and the best of the fly fishing community. Our content is always ad-free, never sponsored, and dedicated to providing unique, high-quality information. Subscribe today  and use promo code: COLTER  at checkout for 15% off and we'll donate 25% MORE to charity for exclusive interviews, insider tips, and to support fly fishing charities with every subscription—50% of all subscription fees go directly to a different fly fishing charity each month!

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 in-depth stories, expert insights, and the best of the fly fishing community. Our content is always ad-free, never sponsored, and dedicated to providing unique, high-quality information. Subscribe today  and use promo code: "Afterwork"  at checkout for 15% off and we'll donate 25% MORE to charity for exclusive interviews, insider tips, and to support fly fishing charities with every subscription—50% of all subscription fees go directly to a different fly fishing charity each month! Fishing isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way to connect, unwind, and build lifelong friendships. That’s the heart of the After Work Fish Club , a grassroots fishing community that started as a simple way to get people on the water after the workday. What began as a casual fishing group among friends has grown into a passionate network of anglers who share their love for fishing, conservation, and community. Founded by Sean, the After Work Fish Club was never meant to be a traditional fishing club confined to a single location. Instead, it’s a movement fueled by passion , where anglers from all backgrounds—whether fly fishing, conventional, or offshore—can connect over their shared experiences. The club thrives on its social and community-driven approach , welcoming anglers across the country into a network built on respect for the water and the fish that call it home. And out of this growing community came one of the most unique fishing tournaments around—the Red spot Roundup. The Red spot Roundup: A Fishing Tournament Unlike Any Other The Red spot Roundup isn’t just another catch-and-release tournament—it’s a fresh take on competitive angling that makes the most out of one of redfish’s most defining characteristics: their spots . Instead of measuring fish by length or weight, this tournament awards the angler who catches the redfish with the most spots that fit within a specific scoring area . It’s a creative, fun, and conservation-friendly approach to tournament fishing that makes every redfish count. How the Tournament Works Low-Cost Entry:  The tournament is accessible to anyone, with a $30 Red Card  serving as an entry ticket. Catch & Count:  When an angler lands a redfish, they place their Red Card on the fish and count the visible spots within the designated scoring circle on the card . Most Spots Wins:  The more individual, singular spots  inside the circle, the better. Clusters of connected spots do not count as multiple spots —they must be separate. Half Spots Count:  If a spot is partially within the scoring circle , it still counts toward the total. No Boat Required:  Unlike many tournaments that favor boat anglers, this one is open to all types of fishing —whether from a boat, kayak, beach, or pier. Social Media Submissions:  To enter, anglers submit their photos online, making it an easy and interactive way to compete. Important Rules: No nets (cast nets), no spears, no gaffing —fish must be caught legally and released in a healthy condition. Anglers must follow local fishing regulations  for their waters. Public Waters Only:  Catches must be made in public waters; private ponds or restricted areas are not permitted. Live Fish Photos:  The fish must be alive when the picture is taken to ensure ethical catch-and-release practices. Tie-Breaker:  In the event of a tie, the winner will be determined by the date of the winning entry's submission—the earliest submission wins. Card Visibility:  The unique number on your Red Card must be clearly visible in all submitted photos. When & Where? The tournament runs throughout April , giving anglers a full month to land their best redfish. It’s everywhere.  There’s no single location—anglers from across the country can participate, making this one of the most inclusive  tournaments out there. While redfish can be found in many places, Louisiana, Florida, Texas, and South Carolina  are some of the best locations for targeting high-spot redfish. The Prizes: What’s on the Line? The Grand Prize  for the Red Spot Round Up includes: Two Gen2 Turtlebox Audio Speakers One YETI Panga Bag plus additional YETI gear One LOWco Marsh MX 8wt Fly Rod One Fly Reel One Year Supply of Afuera Coffee Additionally, all participants who buy a card in the month of Febuary are automatically entered to win a Turtlebox Speaker are automatically entered into weekly giveaways throughout April, with prizes ranging from a case of Clawback Sauce to a Turtlebox speaker. The Grand Prize winner will be announced on May 3rd in Charleston, SC , via Instagram Live. Winners need not be present; they will be contacted via email following the announcement. Who is Sean? The Angler Behind the After Work Fish Club Sean’s journey into fishing wasn’t traditional. Growing up in Wilmington, North Carolina , his father tried to introduce him to fishing but wasn’t exactly great at it. It wasn’t until high school, when he befriended a fishing-obsessed family, that Sean really started to appreciate the sport. His true fly fishing moment  came during a visit to his uncle in Tampa, Florida . Struggling through his first 100 casts, he was about ready to call it quits—until he hooked into a school of ladyfish . From that moment, he was hooked on the precision and technique of fly fishing. Years later, after moving to Charleston, South Carolina , Sean found himself wanting to connect with fellow anglers. Working in the commercial flooring industry, he discovered that many of his colleagues shared a love for fishing. So, he started what he called the After Work Fish Club , an informal gathering of anglers looking to get out on the water every other Thursday . The group grew fast, and before long, it turned into something much bigger—an online community with thousands of engaged anglers, a growing social media presence, and eventually, the creation of the Red spot Roundup  tournament. The Fly Box’s Take: Why We’re Getting Involved As Sean mentioned in our conversation, he’s been working on this tournament for over six months. While he’s the driving force behind After Work Fish Club, he emphasized multiple times that it’s not just about him—it’s about the community . “This isn’t me. This is truly a community-driven Fish Club.” That’s what makes the Red spot Roundup  so special. It’s not just a tournament—it’s a movement built by anglers, for anglers, with a focus on bringing people together  and giving back . That’s why The Fly Box LLC  is excited to not only support the event  but also participate in it ourselves . We’ll be joining in on the fun, helping spread the word, and contributing to the tournament’s success. Whether you’re a seasoned fly angler or just looking for an excuse to get out and chase redfish, this is a tournament worth checking out. How to Get Involved Sign up:  Head over to the After Work Fish Club Website  to grab your Red Card . Start fishing in April:  Grab your fly rod, conventional setup, or whatever you prefer, and start chasing redfish. Follow the action:  Keep up with weekly giveaways, updates, and more through social media: @afterworkfishclub and tournament announcements. The Red spot Roundup is about more than just fishing—it’s about bringing people together, celebrating a love for the sport, and making an impact while doing it. We can’t wait to see how this tournament unfolds, and we’re looking forward to being a part of it! 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 in-depth stories, expert insights, and the best of the fly fishing community. Our content is always ad-free, never sponsored, and dedicated to providing unique, high-quality information. Subscribe today  and use promo code: "Afterwork"  at checkout for 15% off and we'll donate 25% MORE to charity for exclusive interviews, insider tips, and to support fly fishing charities with every subscription—50% of all subscription fees go directly to a different fly fishing charity each month!

For years, the fly fishing industry has been dominated by graphite rods—light, fast, and highly efficient. But in the background, a quiet revolution has been brewing. Fiberglass fly rods, once thought to be a relic of the past, are making a surprising comeback. But is this just a nostalgic trend fueled by purist anglers, or is there something more to it?