Skechers’ Strategic Pivot How focusing on an underserved market propelled Skechers to the top

This article is part of Casts That Care , our fly fishing charity newsletter.   Casts That Care  donates 50% of every subscription to a different fly fishing nonprofit each month, supporting conservation efforts, veterans, and at-risk youth through the sport we love. This is part of our free newsletter, which drops every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday at noon —but if you want daily  fly fishing news, industry insights, and stories delivered straight to your inbox, Subscribe Here ! Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, recently announced his retirement after six decades at the helm of one of the world's most influential conglomerates. While his investment acumen is well-documented, less known is his company's subtle yet significant presence in the fishing and outdoor industries. Casting into the Outdoor Industry: Berkshire's Lesser-Known Holdings Berkshire Hathaway's portfolio extends beyond insurance and railroads; it encompasses several companies integral to outdoor recreation: Forest River, Inc.: Acquired in 2005, Forest River is a leading manufacturer of recreational vehicles, cargo trailers, and pontoon boats. Its subsidiaries, including Berkshire Pontoons, South Bay Pontoons, and Trifecta Pontoons, produce vessels popular among anglers and boating enthusiasts. The acquisition was notably swift—Buffett reportedly agreed to the $800 million deal after a brief 20-minute meeting with Forest River's founder, Peter Liegl. American Angler: Through its 1986 acquisition of the Scott Fetzer Company, Berkshire Hathaway owned American Angler, a manufacturer of fishing fillet knives and accessories. However, in 2021, Berkshire sold Scott Fetzer's Kirby brand to Right Lane Industries, concluding its nearly century-long association with the company. Double-H Boots: A subsidiary of H.H. Brown, which Berkshire acquired in 1991, Double-H Boots manufactures western and work footwear, including cowboy boots favored by outdoor workers and enthusiasts. Brooks Running: While primarily known for running shoes, Brooks Running, a Berkshire subsidiary, has a presence in the outdoor apparel market. The company continues to expand globally, with significant manufacturing operations in Southeast Asia. These holdings illustrate Berkshire Hathaway's indirect yet impactful involvement in supporting outdoor lifestyles, including fishing, boating, and related activities. "Gone Fishing with Buffett": Investment Lessons Through a Fishing Lens The book Gone Fishing with Buffett  by Sean Seah employs a fishing narrative to elucidate Buffett's investment principles. Through a fictional dialogue between a young man and a seasoned investor, the book draws parallels between fishing strategies and value investing, emphasizing patience, discipline, and understanding one's environment. Buffett's Investment Philosophy Mirrors Fly Fishing Principles Buffett's approach to investing shares striking similarities with fly fishing: Patience and Timing : Just as anglers wait for the right conditions, Buffett advocates for waiting until the perfect investment opportunity arises. Understanding the Environment : Successful fishing requires knowledge of aquatic ecosystems; similarly, Buffett emphasizes understanding the businesses and industries before investing. Avoiding Unnecessary Risks : Buffett advises against unnecessary risks, akin to an angler avoiding hazardous waters. These parallels underscore the thoughtful, strategic nature inherent in both disciplines. The Legacy of a Quiet Outdoorsman While Buffett may not be an avid fisherman, his company's investments have undeniably supported the infrastructure and equipment essential to outdoor recreation. From manufacturing pontoon boats to producing reliable outdoor footwear, Berkshire Hathaway's portfolio reflects a commitment to industries that resonate with outdoor enthusiasts. As Buffett steps down, his legacy includes not only financial acumen but also an understated contribution to the outdoor and fishing communities.

Trout anglers in the Pacific Northwest are no strangers to challenge—dams, drought, and habitat loss are familiar foes. But there’s a new threat moving in fast, and it’s swimming in from warmer waters: smallmouth bass.

It’s 2025. You can pay for groceries with your face, unlock your car with your watch, and stream a movie on a smart refrigerator. So why does buying a fishing license still feel like you’re trying to break into a federal database? Welcome to the first edition of Sunday Cast , a weekly opinion column written by Kevin Wolfe, the chief editor of Casts That Care, where we unpack the things fly anglers talk about behind the scenes. A Modern Problem With an Outdated System The concept of a fishing license is simple: you pay a fee, you get the right to fish, and your money helps support conservation. Most of us are more than happy to pay our dues. But the process  of buying a license today—especially online—is a mess: Confusing state websites with outdated layouts Login systems that forget you every year Long forms with hard-to-read disclaimers Unexpected processing fees tacked on at the final screen No clear place to store or re-download your license later If you moved out of state, good luck buying a non-resident license in your former home state—it often fails or throws error messages Some systems ask for your Social Security Number , even though the websites feel decades old and don’t inspire confidence in their security Nearly every system includes "all sales are final"  disclaimers, so if you click the wrong box or enter incorrect info, there’s often no way to fix it or get a refund Customer support, when available, is inconsistent and can take days to respond Let’s Look Closer: Three Pain Points Worth Fixing 1. "All Sales Are Final" This one stings. Nearly every license system includes language that says all sales are final—no refunds, no do-overs. Even if the error was a typo, a misunderstood residency status, or a system glitch. While we understand this policy might exist to prevent fraud or limit administrative burden, it puts the entire risk on the angler. One misclick or missing field can turn into a lost fee, and your only option is to purchase the license again. At the very least, there should be an appeal process or a limited grace window to fix errors, especially in states where the systems are known to be buggy. 2. Moved Out of State? Good Luck Many anglers grow up in one state, move away for work or family, and return home for a visit to fish their old stomping grounds. But if you try to buy a non-resident license  in your original state, things often go sideways. The system may still have you logged as a resident. Or it may block your out-of-state payment method. Worse, it might deny your purchase entirely because your ID no longer matches what’s on file. It’s frustrating—and completely avoidable with better account recognition and updated software that lets you easily switch license status without error. 3. Why Do You Need My Social? Some state websites ask for your Social Security Number  during the purchase process, either for identification or to comply with state laws (often related to child support enforcement). But for most anglers, entering sensitive information into a dated, poorly secured website is a huge red flag. These systems rarely give reassurance that your information is encrypted, stored securely, or handled by a trustworthy vendor. It’s not that we don’t want to comply—it’s that we want transparency and digital safety to match the times we’re living in. Can’t I Just Buy It in Person? Yes—and for many anglers, buying a license at a place like Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, or a local outfitter is still the preferred route. You can ask questions, get help, and walk out with your paper license in-hand. But not everyone lives near a sporting goods store. And the fact that this is possible in-person  proves that the system can  work—it’s just that the online version is often far more complicated than it needs to be. Why It Matters For newcomers—especially younger anglers trying fly fishing for the first time—this kind of friction is a real barrier to entry. If your first experience is spending 45 minutes on a broken mobile website before even touching a rod, that’s not a great start. We talk all the time about making fly fishing more accessible. Fixing license platforms should be step one. The Case for Change Here’s what we’d love to see: Mobile-friendly design  with modern UX standards Instant email and text confirmations  with digital copies In-app license storage —like Apple Wallet or similar Annual reminders  before your license expires Clear explanations  of rules, expiration dates, and reciprocity (especially across state lines) Live chat or call support  for real-time issue resolution Some states are beginning to get it right. A few have launched apps that store licenses digitally, offer push notifications for renewals, and streamline the process into just a few clicks. These models show what’s possible when angler convenience and digital security are taken seriously. The Upside: Why Licenses Still Matter It’s easy to focus on the frustrating process—but let’s not forget why  we buy fishing licenses in the first place. That money funds: Fish stocking programs Stream restoration and access projects Public land maintenance Invasive species control Youth fishing education and outreach Conservation enforcement and habitat protection Your license is a ticket to cast—but it’s also an investment in the future of the sport. Final Cast This isn’t about complaining—it’s about caring. If we want more people fishing, more money going to conservation, and less time wasted clicking broken links, then we need to demand better systems. Fly fishing deserves a license experience that’s as smooth as a perfect roll cast. And until then, maybe keep a PDF backup on your phone... just in case. —Kevin Wolfe, Written for Casts That Care by The Fly Box LLC

In recent weeks, California’s coastlines have seen a troubling sight: starving brown pelicans turning up emaciated, grounded, and desperate. Wildlife rehab centers are overwhelmed, and the cause is becoming increasingly clear—it’s not just about the birds. It’s about the ocean they rely on, and the fish that are no longer there.

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: "Namor15"  at checkout for 15% off your first month, and we’ll donate 25% more to conservation efforts supported by Namor Outdoors. Namor Outdoors Logo For Logan Scott, fishing is more than a sport—it’s survival, purpose, and community. What started as a simple Instagram page has grown into Namor Outdoors, a brand and squad built around one core philosophy: no matter what life throws your way, fish through the storm . But don’t call it a movement. “Namor is not necessarily a movement,” Logan says. “It’s a symbol—an incorruptible symbol to fish through the storm regardless of what life throws your way.” For the Modern Nomad Namor Outdoors carries the tagline “For the Modern Nomad” , but it’s more than catchy marketing. For Logan, a modern nomad is anyone who embraces the great outdoors without pretense. “It’s someone who isn’t scared to post a dead buck on their Instagram or take a nap in their car,” he explains. It’s about raw, real adventure—the kind that doesn’t need to be dressed up to be meaningful. Namor’s beginnings were rooted in sharing that lifestyle. The original page wasn’t a brand—it was just about embracing fishing, learning, sharing knowledge, and having fun with friends. But the symbol grew. Fishing Saved My Life Logan doesn’t mince words about what fishing has meant to him. “If it wasn’t for fishing, I would probably be dead,” he says. The lessons he’s learned on the water? They’ve become life lessons: Respect the fish and nature. Ignore people who only want to see you fail. Watch YouTube, learn the sport, and don’t be scared to try new things—everyone has to start somewhere. That simple but powerful philosophy shapes Namor Outdoors as a brand, as a community, and as a way of life. The Namor Squad: More Than a Team Namor doesn’t run on algorithms—it runs on people . The Namor Squad  is a tight-knit group that feels more like family than brand ambassadors. “It’s all about team,” Logan says. “No fish pic, no crazy net job, no bonding. The Namor Squad is about bringing people together.” It’s not just a group of names—it’s a crew of characters: Cam (aka Cootie) : Fly fisher, fly tyer, hunter, outdoorsman, and Logan’s best friend. Cam’s been at East Rosebud Fly Shop for over a decade—and once saved Logan’s life from a grizzly bear ambush. Vaughn : The recon expert —the reason people blur their backgrounds. “Vaughn is the backbone of the support,” Logan says. “Insanely great at fly fishing, finding goated spots, and being someone you can count on.” Joey : The global ambassador . Caleb : The sturgeon expert . Ron : A flex angler —paddlefishing, catfishing, Pike, and likely to catch the Montana state record catfish. Christian : The ice fishing and brown trout animal —a streamer-tying machine. The Namor Outdoors Fish Crew “The Namor crew is for anyone who loves to fish hard,” Logan says. Fishing, Grit, and Grizzlies One moment stands out as the most memorable in Namor’s history—a trip that embodies what this crew is about. While fishing near Yellowstone, Logan and Cam were separated by about 30 feet when they heard a branch break behind them. “A grizzly bear charged me from behind,” Logan recalls. “I jumped in the river when the sound of breaking brush got loud and close—right where I was standing.” From the water, Logan watched as the bear approached, just as Cam raised his pistol and shot. The bear spun and retreated into the brush. They crossed the river, packed up camp, and reported the incident to authorities. “Be bear aware,” Logan says. The Gear, the Lore, and What’s Next Namor gear is built for the modern nomad—with 5th-generation Montana lore and fishy designs. “It’s hard to be original in this day and age,” Logan admits. “But the Fishblimp will continue to pump out streetwear for modern nomads.” This summer, Logan is guiding full-time on the Bighorn River through Bighorn Angler, with plans for more alpine adventures, tiger musky and pike content, and fresh YouTube drops. The vision for Namor? To become a trusted source for fishing knowledge, gear, and connections. “We want to grow into something people rely on,” Logan says. “A trusted resource that works with other creators and keeps fishing real.” Building a Nomadic Community Namor Outdoors isn’t just about the gear—it’s about encouraging people to break out of their routines and embrace the nomadic spirit . Logan’s advice? “Go solo, go with the wrong gear, just get out in the woods. Watch YouTube, take a chance. Your problems disappear when you see that nature is doing just fine.” The most rewarding part? The community . “Constantly posting, looking for new projects, doing things the right way, being a team player,” Logan says. That’s what keeps the connection alive. How to Join the Namor Crew Want to get involved? Logan keeps it simple: “Buy a hoodie. Buy a shirt. Tag us in a post. Reach out on Instagram or TikTok.” You can follow @namor_mt  on all platforms and check out the latest gear at namoroutdoors.com . And if you’re ready to fish hard, embrace the grind, and join the squad— reach out. Namor is more than just a brand. It's a symbol. It's about fishing through the storm.

This feature was written by The Fly Box and published in Casts That Care , our charity-driven fly fishing newsletter. Casts That Care  delivers real stories, deep dives, and the heart of the fly fishing world—while donating 50% of all subscription fees to a different fishing-related nonprofit each month. For May, we’re proud to support Rifles to Rods, a veteran-founded organization that provides free fishing trips to military veterans across Massachusetts. Subscribe today and use promo code: “RIFLES15” at checkout for 15% off your first month —and we’ll donate an extra 25% directly to Rifles to Rods. At Casts That Care , our mission is to harness the power of fly fishing to support causes that matter. Every month, we shine a light on a nonprofit that’s casting hope into the waters where it’s needed most. For the month of May, we’re proud to welcome Rifles to Rods  as our featured partner a remarkable organization using fishing as a tool for healing, connection, and recovery among America’s veterans. Who They Are Rifles to Rods  is a Massachusetts-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2016 with a singular mission: to serve the men and women who have served our country by providing them with therapeutic fishing experiences at no cost. From offshore saltwater charters on Cape Cod to peaceful fly fishing adventures in the western part of the state, their trips create space for veterans to decompress, reconnect, and rediscover a sense of purpose. The story of Rifles to Rods begins with two friends—Army veteran Ryan Puzzo and Gerard McAllister—who both discovered the quiet power of fishing. After returning home from Afghanistan, Ryan sought peace and reconnection through time on the water. Gerard shared that love for fishing, and together they realized how profoundly healing it could be. Whether casting in calm lakes or navigating coastal waters, they saw fishing as more than a pastime—it was a pathway to restoration, reflection, and community. Inspired by this realization, they launched Rifles to Rods to share that experience with veterans across Massachusetts. Over the years, their team has expanded to include other passionate veterans and anglers who volunteer their time, boats, and gear—all to ensure that no veteran is left behind. Why It Matters The transition from military service to civilian life is often described as one of the most difficult journeys a person can make. Many veterans return home only to face an invisible battle with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. Rifles to Rods addresses these challenges not with prescriptions, but with patience, presence, and the unmatched calm of a day spent fishing. These trips aren’t just about the fish. They’re about creating safe, judgment-free environments where veterans can be themselves, surrounded by others who understand their struggles. Through shared experience and the meditative act of casting a line, veterans begin to rebuild their confidence and reconnect with the world around them. In addition to the psychological benefits, Rifles to Rods also cultivates new friendships and networks of support that extend long after the day’s final cast. It’s a reminder that healing doesn’t always happen in a clinic—it can start on a riverbank, rod in hand. Casts That Care x Rifles to Rods Throughout the month of May, Casts That Care  will proudly: Donate 50% of all subscription proceeds  to support the mission of Rifles to Rods Share real-life stories of veterans whose lives have been touched by the program Feature interviews with volunteers and organizers who make these trips possible Spotlight upcoming events and opportunities for our community to get involved We believe that by combining storytelling with action, we can make waves that ripple far beyond the banks. And we know our readers—fly fishers who value connection, purpose, and conservation—will stand with us. How You Can Help Subscribe  to Casts That Care . Every dollar fuels both powerful journalism and tangible impact. Donate directly  at riflestorods.org  to help fund future veteran fishing trips. Volunteer  your time, your boat, or your expertise to support their on-the-water efforts. Share this article  with your friends and family to spread the word about this inspiring organization. Let’s make this May meaningful. Let’s put more rods in the hands of those who’ve carried rifles. Let’s show our veterans that their service is never forgotten—and that healing is possible, one cast at a time. Because every cast should count for something more. Join Us Here This feature was written by The Fly Box and published in Casts That Care , our charity-driven fly fishing newsletter. Casts That Care  delivers real stories, deep dives, and the heart of the fly fishing world—while donating 50% of all subscription fees to a different fishing-related nonprofit each month. For May, we’re proud to support Rifles to Rods, a veteran-founded organization that provides free fishing trips to military veterans across Massachusetts. Subscribe today   and use promo code: “RIFLES15” at checkout for 15% off your first month —and we’ll donate an extra 25% directly to Rifles to Rods.

This article is part of Casts That Care , our fly fishing charity newsletter.   Casts That Care  donates 50% of every subscription to a different fly fishing nonprofit each month, supporting conservation efforts, veterans, and at-risk youth through the sport we love. This is part of our free newsletter, which drops every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday at noon —but if you want daily  fly fishing news, industry insights, and stories delivered straight to your inbox, Subscribe Here ! In 2025, Trout Unlimited (TU) reignited its “Hands Off My Public Lands” campaign, responding to renewed efforts to transfer or sell federally managed lands to state or private entities. This movement aims to protect the 640 million acres of public lands that provide critical habitat for trout and salmon, as well as recreational opportunities for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts across the country.​ What Is the “Hands Off My Public Lands” Campaign? Launched by TU, the “Hands Off My Public Lands” campaign is a grassroots advocacy effort opposing legislative attempts to transfer federal public lands to state control or privatization. Such transfers could lead to reduced public access, increased development, and degradation of fish habitats. The campaign mobilizes anglers, hunters, and conservationists to contact their representatives and advocate for the protection of public lands. Who Is Behind the Campaign? Trout Unlimited, a nonprofit organization founded in 1959, leads the campaign. With over 150,000 members and 400 chapters nationwide, TU is dedicated to conserving, protecting, and restoring North America's coldwater fisheries and their watersheds. The organization collaborates with local communities, government agencies, and other conservation groups to achieve its mission. Why Is This Campaign Necessary? Public lands are essential for preserving fish habitats, ensuring clean water, and providing recreational opportunities. Transferring these lands to state or private ownership could result in: Restricted public access due to privatization or development. Increased resource extraction activities, such as mining and logging, leading to habitat degradation. Reduced funding and management for conservation efforts.​ TU emphasizes that federal management of public lands ensures consistent conservation policies and public access across state lines.​ Historical Context: Past Threats to Public Lands The struggle to protect public lands is not new. In 2017, Representative Jason Chaffetz introduced a bill (H.R. 621) to sell off 3.3 million acres of federal land.  The proposal faced immediate backlash from conservationists, hunters, and anglers, leading to its withdrawal. ​ Similarly, in 2018, TU members in Idaho actively opposed state legislative efforts to assume control over federal lands, recognizing the potential risks to public access and habitat conservation.  How Can You Get Involved? TU encourages individuals to participate in the campaign by:​ Signing petitions and contacting elected officials to express support for federal public land management. Trout Unlimited Active Petition Joining local TU chapters to engage in conservation projects and advocacy efforts. Educating others about the importance of public lands for ecological health and recreation. By uniting voices, the campaign aims to ensure that public lands remain protected for future generations.​ Conclusion The “Hands Off My Public Lands” campaign underscores the importance of collective action in safeguarding natural resources. Through continued advocacy and community engagement, Trout Unlimited and its supporters strive to preserve the integrity of America's public lands, ensuring they remain a haven for wildlife and a source of enjoyment for all. This article is part of Casts That Care , our fly fishing charity newsletter.   Casts That Care  donates 50% of every subscription to a different fly fishing nonprofit each month, supporting conservation efforts, veterans, and at-risk youth through the sport we love. This is part of our free newsletter, which drops every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday at noon —but if you want daily  fly fishing news, industry insights, and stories delivered straight to your inbox, Subscribe Here !

When Ross Reels first partnered with Coors Banquet in 2024, it was the kind of collaboration that made fly fishers and beer lovers alike raise their eyebrows—in a good way. Their limited-edition Animas fly reel wasn’t just a gimmick; it was a fully functional, precision-machined reel that sold out fast and raised funds for Trout Unlimited's Embrace A Stream program.

Centerpin fishing is a traditional angling technique that emphasizes natural bait presentation, making it a favorite among steelhead and trout anglers. Unlike spinning or fly fishing, centerpin relies on a reel that spins freely on its axis, allowing the angler to control the drift of the bait with precision.

Fly fishing often conjures images of complex gear setups, intricate flies, and anglers waist-deep in western rivers. Yet, an ancient Japanese approach called tenkara has recently captured the interest of the global fly fishing community, emphasizing simplicity, mindfulness, and minimalism on the water.

We like to think of fly fishing as timeless—rivers flowing, trout rising, the rhythm of a good cast. But the truth is, fly fishing got reshaped right alongside steam engines and steel mills. The Industrial Revolution didn’t just change cities. It changed fishing.