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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: Leave_No_Trvce  at checkout for 15% off your first month, and we’ll donate 25% more to our charity of the month By Kevin Wolfe | Casts That Care Earlier this year, Casts That Care featured Idaho angler and creator Tyson Chavis (@Leave_No_Trvce). He is a steelhead-chasing, death-metal-loving fly fisherman who has made a name for blending his personal passions with the sport. Now Tyson is back with his boldest project yet: a fully custom Pokéball Fly Rod that he built by hand and is giving away to one lucky angler. From Childhood Nostalgia to River Reality The idea began with a simple observation. Tyson told us, “The idea for the Pokéball fly rod came from staring at fly reels. When I saw the Redington ID Core, it immediately struck me as looking like a Pokéball.” Pokémon was an important part of his early years. “Pokémon was a huge part of my childhood in the early 2000s. I played the games, collected the cards, and watched the original show religiously. This rod is really a love letter to that era, a reminder of the excitement, exploration, and the chase for something legendary.” Building the Pokéball Rod Tyson started with the blank, choosing the Blue Halo Retroflex 3, an 8-foot, 5-weight fiberglass rod. “It excels in tight quarters, and the vibrant red glass was perfect for a Pokéball theme,” he explained. He threaded, wrapped, and epoxied the rod with matching colors before turning his attention to the reel. “I measured and cut the vinyl by hand, then permanently applied it to the ID Core reel with rod-building epoxy. For a finishing touch, I cut out a holographic Magikarp card and set it into the rod with epoxy.” The build was not without challenges. “The toughest part of the build was a toss-up between epoxying the reel, something I had never tried before, and figuring out how to make the Magikarp card stay on the rod. Since the card was thicker than a standard decal, it took a few attempts to get it right.” Between building the first rod, filming and editing the video, and then creating a second version for the giveaway, the process stretched over three months. “At the time it was only my second rod build, and I was still learning a ton while relying on very basic hand tools.” Why a Giveaway? The decision to part with the rod came after some hesitation. “Originally, I planned to give away the first rod to someone who shared my love for both fly fishing and Pokémon, while also promoting the build video. But I ended up loving it so much that I decided to keep it and build a second one to give away instead, a nearly identical version with a few small improvements.” What he hopes the winner takes from it goes beyond gear. “What I really hope the winner gets out of the rod is a reminder that fly fishing is supposed to be fun. The challenge and rewards are great, but it is easy to forget the joy of simply being out there — something I am guilty of too.” Beyond the Pokéball The Pokéball rod has gained attention far beyond Tyson’s expectations. “The Pokéball fly rod has resonated with more people than I ever expected, especially across the fly fishing and Pokémon communities. It has been amazing to see how well it has connected on Instagram.” The success has sparked more ideas. “Up next are the Great Ball, Ultra Ball, and Master Ball rods, each one aimed at bigger and rarer fish. I am also still working on catching every trout species in Idaho.” And the creativity is not stopping there. “As for future builds, I have got plenty of ideas. One that excites me is a katana-inspired rod, I think it could be a really fun project.” Fly Fishing, Reinvented For Tyson, the Pokéball Fly Rod is more than just a creative build. “Pokémon is all about exploration and overcoming challenges. The Pokéball fly rod is all about creating something meaningful and having fun on the water. I hope those two ethos play a role in showing the next generation of fly anglers that fly fishing can be whatever they want it to be. It doesn’t have to be what most of social media and corporate marketing show you.” Tyson Chavis Where to Follow & Enter Instagram: @leave_no_trvce YouTube: Leave No Trvce The Pokéball Fly Rod giveaway closes on September 16th at 6 PM MST.

A River in Crisis The Miramichi River in New Brunswick has long been known as one of the great Atlantic salmon fisheries of the world. For decades, anglers traveled from across the globe to cast flies into its storied pools. Today, that legacy is under threat. Since 2012, Atlantic salmon populations in the river have dropped by nearly 86 percent. What was once a thriving run is now a fraction of its historic abundance, leaving conservationists, local communities, and fly fishers deeply concerned.

For anglers, guiding is more than a profession. It is a craft that blends outdoor skills, safety, and responsibility to both clients and natural resources. Yet the rules governing who can legally call themselves a guide vary widely across the United States. From Maine’s tradition-heavy system to Michigan’s modern data reporting, each state has created its own standards shaped by history, culture, and management priorities.

Guiding in America has always been more than just taking someone fishing or hunting. It is rooted in the traditions of wilderness exploration, survival, and storytelling. Long before licenses and government oversight, guides were local experts who knew the rivers, trails, and forests better than anyone else. Their role was to help travelers, settlers, and sportsmen find their way through unfamiliar landscapes. The Early Days: Native Guides and Frontier Scouts The first guides in North America were often Indigenous people whose deep knowledge of the land made exploration possible. European settlers relied on them for everything from safe passage through mountain passes to finding fish-rich waters. Later, during the 18th and 19th centuries, frontier scouts and trappers became the forerunners of professional guiding. They combined hunting and fishing expertise with survival skills, offering their services to visiting sportsmen from cities and abroad. The Birth of Professional Guiding As railroads expanded in the mid-1800s, America saw the rise of tourism in wilderness areas like the Adirondacks, the Rockies, and Maine’s vast forests. Wealthy anglers and hunters from New York, Boston, and Philadelphia flocked north, eager for adventure. This demand gave rise to a new profession: the wilderness guide. Maine, in particular, became famous for its Registered Maine Guides, a program dating back to 1897 when Cornelia "Fly Rod" Crosby became the first licensed guide in the state. Her license marked the beginning of formalized guide regulation in the United States. Why Licensing Emerged By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, guiding had grown into a booming business. At the same time, concerns about overfishing, overhunting, and client safety became pressing. States realized that without oversight, both natural resources and paying customers were at risk. Licensing programs were introduced to ensure guides met certain standards in ethics, safety, and knowledge of regulations. The goal was to protect not only fish and game populations but also the reputation of guiding as a respected profession. Unique Traditions Across States Different states developed licensing in their own way. Maine’s program emphasized outdoor skill and tradition, requiring guides to demonstrate survival and navigation knowledge. Western states with vast wilderness areas often focused on big game hunting and backcountry safety. Coastal states like California emphasized financial accountability, even requiring surety bonds to safeguard clients. Each system reflected the character of the region and the challenges guides were expected to manage. Lesser-Known Stories One of the lesser-known aspects of guide history is how guiding often blurred the line between adventure and hospitality. Early guides were not only responsible for leading clients to fish and game but also for cooking meals, telling stories around the campfire, and sometimes even playing fiddle tunes at night. Their role was part expert, part entertainer, and part caretaker. Many of these traditions survive today in the camaraderie between guides and clients. From Past to Present Today, guiding is a regulated profession with written exams, first aid certifications, and often years of experience required. Yet the heart of the job has not changed. Guides remain the bridge between people and the natural world, carrying forward a tradition that started with Indigenous scouts and frontier woodsmen. While the paperwork has multiplied, the essence of guiding,k nowledge, trust, and connection to the land, remains timeless. Why It Matters Understanding the history of guide licensing gives us a deeper appreciation for the role guides play in American outdoor culture. What began as informal knowledge-sharing has evolved into a profession with standards and protections. And yet, guiding is still built on the same foundations of trust, storytelling, and respect for the outdoors that defined it centuries ago.

This piece is part of Sunday Cast , a weekly op-ed published in Casts That Care —our daily fly fishing newsletter. Each subscription helps support fly fishing charities, with 50% of fees donated every month, Join Us Here ! Read more. Think deeper. Fish better.   By Kevin Wolfe | Casts That Care When I first read the news that Kraft Heinz was splitting up, my mind immediately jumped to fishing. Not the fish sticks in the freezer aisle, but the fishing business world, especially Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s. We have talked a lot in this newsletter about their 2017 merger and what it meant for anglers, small shops, and the industry at large. So when I saw Kraft Heinz unwinding one of the biggest food mergers of the last decade, I could not help but think: what does this say about mergers in our own corner of the world? And are there lessons here for fishing companies, both big and small? The Kraft Heinz Story in a Nutshell Back in 2015, Kraft and Heinz came together in what was supposed to be a powerhouse partnership. Backed by Warren Buffett and 3G Capital, the idea was simple: scale up, cut costs, and dominate the grocery aisles. But over time, the cracks showed. Consumer tastes shifted toward fresher and healthier options, innovation lagged, and the company ended up writing down billions in losses. Stock prices dropped by more than half, and the merger that once promised synergy now looked bloated and sluggish. Now, Kraft Heinz is breaking apart into two new companies, one focused on grocery staples like Kraft Singles and Lunchables, the other on sauces and spreads like Heinz ketchup and Philadelphia cream cheese. The logic is that simpler companies can be more focused, more agile, and hopefully more profitable. The Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Comparison My first thought was Bass Pro and Cabela’s. That merger came from a similar place: two giants combining to achieve scale, streamline costs, and dominate outdoor retail. And while it worked in some ways, consolidating power and creating a national retail presence that is hard to ignore, it also left gaps. Independent fly shops and smaller gear makers suddenly had a stronger argument. They could deliver expertise, community, and authenticity in a way the big box behemoths could not. Fly fishing especially thrives on niche. It is not about how many rods you can stock in a warehouse, it is about the knowledge behind the counter, the stories told on the river, and the ability to match gear to local waters. Where Big Companies Thrive and Where They Struggle Here is what I have noticed: Thriving:  When big outdoor retailers focus on accessibility. If you are a new angler in a town without a fly shop, a Bass Pro or Cabela’s can be the place to get started. Big mergers do help broaden reach and lower costs, which makes fishing more approachable for beginners. Struggling:  When size becomes a substitute for focus. In fly fishing, the companies that try to be everything to everyone usually end up with shelves full of generic gear that does not inspire much loyalty. The cost savings angle rarely translates into meaningful innovation for anglers. That is exactly the lesson Kraft Heinz learned. Scale without innovation does not get you very far. If a Big Merger Were to Work in Fly Fishing If I imagine a merger in our world that actually makes sense, it would be between companies that complement each other rather than duplicate. Think of a rod company with strong warranties and reach teaming up with a fly line manufacturer that pushes innovation. Together, they could offer a better total package to anglers without losing their identities. But if two massive retailers or manufacturers merged just to cut costs, I would be skeptical. It usually means less variety, slower innovation, and more of the same gear pushed out in bulk. Lessons for the Fishing Business World So what can the Kraft Heinz breakup really teach us? Focus matters more than scale. Niche companies that know their anglers and innovate around them will always have a place. Consumer trends shift quickly. Just like people ditched processed foods for fresher options, anglers are shifting toward sustainable, durable, and responsibly made gear. Small does not mean weak. Independent shops and specialized brands can adapt faster than giants weighed down by layers of management. Consolidation is not always the answer. Growth sometimes means slimming down, not bulking up. Final Thoughts The fishing industry, like the food industry, walks a fine line between consolidation and community. Big players can bring people into the sport, but they will never replace the role of small shops, independent brands, and passionate innovators who keep fly fishing fresh. If Kraft Heinz’s story tells us anything, it is that bigger is not always better. In fact, sometimes breaking things apart is the best way to keep growing. And for us anglers, that is a reminder to keep supporting the places and companies that put focus, authenticity, and innovation first.

The fly fishing world is still casting lines, but the water beneath it is shifting. Since early 2025, a growing number of economic and cultural factors have begun to reshape how fly fishing brands, retailers, and anglers navigate the industry. While participation remains strong, the business side of fly fishing is facing something that feels less like a crash and more like a realignment.

Chilean Salmon Farm When we think of fishing, it’s easy to picture a quiet stream or a calm bay with fly rods in hand and flies drifting over the water. But beyond our personal moments on the water, there is a massive global industry shaping the future of fish: the international seafood market. The strategies that help multinational salmon companies in Chile thrive can teach us a lot about how to become better recreational anglers.

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. This month it is Reeling In Serenity . Use code “SERENITY15”  for 15% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 25% to support their mission. A Partnership for National Recovery Month For the month of September, Casts That Care  is proud to announce our new partnership with Reeling in Serenity , a nonprofit using fly fishing as a tool for healing and recovery from substance use disorder. With September recognized as National Recovery Month , this collaboration couldn’t come at a better time. Recovery is not a straight path; it is often a long, winding journey marked by challenges and setbacks. Reeling in Serenity provides a lifeline by combining the serenity of fly fishing with the power of community, creating safe spaces where people in recovery can find peace, connection, and encouragement. Together, we’re dedicating September to raising awareness, sharing stories, and fueling their mission. Who is Reeling in Serenity? Founded by a small group of anglers who saw firsthand how fly fishing can aid recovery, Reeling in Serenity  is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit built on the belief that time on the water can change lives. It was founded by Rebecca Sue Klein , and it is led by Executive Director Sylvia Huron,  and a dedicated team of guides, educators, and volunteers. Rebecca Sue Klein, Sylvia Huron Their flagship program is a series of free fly fishing retreats  for people in recovery. At each retreat, participants receive instruction, gear, meals, and one-on-one guidance; all at no cost. More importantly, they are welcomed into a community of mentors and peers who understand the recovery journey. The retreats begin with participants sharing their own stories, setting the tone for a day of empathy, resilience, and hope. Reeling In Serenity Past and Future Retreats Since its founding, Reeling in Serenity has hosted retreats in Montanta, Colorado, New York, Vermont, Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania, serving more than 50 guests in recovery. They have brought their model of healing through fly fishing and the outdoors to each of these events. What They’re Doing in September September is one of the busiest and most important months for Reeling in Serenity. Here’s what’s happening: Recovery Retreats  – New retreats are being hosted across their existing and expanding regions, continuing their mission to provide healing through fly fishing. Annual Fundraising Auction  – Their largest fundraiser of the year takes place this month. The online auction features guided trips, fishing gear, custom artwork, and more, with all proceeds funding future retreats. Join the auction as a bidder. Expanding Awareness  – By aligning their efforts with National Recovery Month, Reeling in Serenity aims to amplify their message and reach more people who could benefit from their programs. What Casts That Care is Doing in September At Casts That Care , we cover stories from all across the fly fishing world. Everything from Daily Fly Fishing News, Interviews, Market research, conservation updates, and more. We believe in pairing storytelling with action. For September, we are standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Reeling in Serenity in several ways: 50% of All Subscriptions Donated  – Every dollar from newsletter subscriptions this month will go directly to Reeling in Serenity. Promo Code Bonus  – Use code “ SERENITY15 ”  for 15% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 25% to support their mission. Spotlight Features  – All month long, we’ll be publishing stories about Reeling in Serenity, highlighting their retreats, volunteers, and the people they serve. Auction Promotion  – We’ll amplify their annual auction , encouraging our readers and community to participate, bid, and give generously. Why This Partnership Matters For someone in recovery, a fly rod is more than just fishing gear. It is a tool for healing. The focus and rhythm of a cast, the stillness of a river, and the support of a mentor can provide moments of clarity and connection that carry over into everyday life. As Sylvia Huron put it: “The stories shared at the start of every retreat, the immediate community and fierce focus that fly fishing requires provides a unique opportunity for healing.” Both Reeling in Serenity and Casts That Care are rooted in the belief that fly fishing has the power to transform lives. This September, we’re working together to prove it. How You Can Help Here’s how you can get involved in this partnership and make an impact this September: Subscribe to Casts That Care  – Your subscription directly supports Reeling in Serenity this month. Bid in the Auction  – Participate in their annual fundraiser and pick up unique gear, artwork, or trips while supporting recovery. Volunteer or Donate Directly  – Learn more about their retreats and donate at reelinginserenity.org . Casting for Serenity This September, every cast counts for more. Together with Reeling in Serenity, we’re proving that fly fishing is not just about the fish—it’s about healing, connection, and recovery. Join us in celebrating National Recovery Month. Let’s cast for serenity, and show that the fly fishing community stands strong in support of recovery. 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. This month it is Reeling In Serenity . Use code “SERENITY15”  for 15% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 25% to support their mission.

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