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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 Join Here. Rogue River, OR, USA A controversial ballot initiative in Oregon is moving closer to becoming reality, and if approved by voters this November, it could fundamentally change the future of hunting, fishing, farming, and wildlife management throughout the state. Known as Initiative Petition 28, or the PEACE Act (People for the Elimination of Animal Cruelty Exemptions), the proposal would remove long-standing exemptions within Oregon's animal cruelty laws. Supporters argue the measure is necessary to provide greater protections for animals. Opponents say it would effectively criminalize hunting, fishing, trapping, livestock production, and many forms of wildlife management. Oregon PEACE Act Last week, organizers announced they had submitted more than 126,000 signatures, surpassing the approximately 117,000 valid signatures required to qualify for Oregon's November ballot. State officials must still verify those signatures before the measure officially appears before voters. What Would The Initiative Do? At the center of the debate is Oregon's current animal cruelty law. Today, activities such as hunting, fishing, trapping, farming, ranching, and wildlife management are specifically exempted from criminal animal abuse statutes. Initiative Petition 28 would remove many of those exemptions. Critics argue that by doing so, nearly any activity that injures or kills an animal could become a criminal offense unless it falls under limited exceptions such as self-defense or veterinary care. The implications could be sweeping. Opponents say recreational and commercial fishing could become illegal. Licensed hunting seasons could disappear. Wildlife management practices used to control invasive species or balance game populations could be challenged under criminal law. Agricultural practices involving livestock could also face significant legal uncertainty. Supporters of the proposal argue that animals deserve stronger legal protections and that existing exemptions allow unnecessary suffering to occur. They have also proposed a transition fund intended to help workers in animal-related industries move into other careers if the measure passes. Why Anglers Should Pay Attention For fly anglers, the debate extends far beyond whether people can keep fish for dinner. Much of modern conservation in the United States is funded by hunters and anglers. License sales, excise taxes on fishing equipment, and other user-generated revenue help pay for habitat restoration, fisheries management, scientific research, public access projects, and fish stocking programs. Several conservation and sporting organizations have warned that eliminating hunting and fishing could dramatically reduce funding available to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, potentially impacting conservation efforts across the state. The issue also touches tribal communities. Hunting and fishing rights have deep cultural, historical, and treaty significance for many tribes throughout Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. Critics of the initiative argue the proposal creates significant uncertainty regarding those rights and how they would be interpreted under the new law. Opposition From Both Sides Of The Political Aisle One of the more unusual aspects of this story is the broad coalition opposing the measure. Conservation groups, hunting organizations, agricultural groups, and political leaders from both major parties have publicly criticized the initiative. Even Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has voiced opposition, arguing that the proposal could criminalize common agricultural practices and create unintended consequences for Oregon's economy and natural resource industries. Organizations ranging from the Oregon Farm Bureau to sporting groups such as the National Wild Turkey Federation, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, Ducks Unlimited, and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation have also spoken against the proposal. Oregon's Hunting and Fishing Ban A Vote That Could Reach Far Beyond Oregon Whether voters ultimately approve or reject Initiative Petition 28, the debate is likely to be watched closely across the country. For decades, conservation in North America has largely operated under a model where hunters and anglers fund a significant portion of wildlife management. Oregon's vote could become one of the most consequential tests yet of how the public views that relationship. For fly fishers, the question goes beyond access to a river or a fishing season. It raises a broader discussion about who pays for conservation, how wildlife is managed, and what role anglers should play in the future of America's natural resources. This November, Oregon voters may help answer that question. 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 Join Here.

Eleuthera, The Bahamas What’s Happening in the Bahamas and Why Fly Fishing Should Pay Attention A general election in The Bahamas is not usually headline news in the fly fishing world. This week, it should be. On May 12, Bahamians are voting in a national election that could shape how the country manages its economy, its infrastructure, and its natural resources. At the center of that conversation, unexpectedly but clearly, is fly fishing. Prescott Smith, president of the Bahamas Fly Fishing Industry Association, issued a warning in the days leading up to the vote. His message focused on ports, shipping, and economic control, but the implications reach far beyond cargo and logistics. "He who controls your port controls your economy," Smith said, pointing specifically to Morgan’s Bluff Port in North Andros. At first glance, that sounds like a shipping story. It is not. It is a resource story, and for fly anglers, it is a fishery story. What Is Actually Being Debated Smith’s concern centers on control. Control of ports, control of development, and ultimately control of the natural systems that support the Bahamian economy. North Andros is not just another island. It holds a massive portion of the country’s land, freshwater reserves, and ecological diversity. It is also home to some of the most productive bonefish flats in the world. Morgan's Bluff Harbor in AN, Bahamas Smith pointed to the broader implications of development tied to port expansion and industrial proposals, including limestone extraction. Those projects, he argued, could impact freshwater systems, mangroves, agriculture, commercial fishing, and the surrounding marine environment. For fly fishing, those systems are not secondary. Bonefish depend on shallow flats, seagrass beds, mangrove shorelines, and tidal creeks. Any change to those environments changes the fishery itself. This is why a conversation about port control becomes a conversation about fly fishing. The History Behind the Tension The Bahamas has been here before. In 2017, the government implemented formal flats fishing regulations. These rules required licenses for anglers, restricted certain species from harvest, and recognized Bahamian guides as central to the fishery. The goal was clear. Protect the resource and ensure that Bahamians benefit from the economic value of their own waters. But even then, the debate was not simple. Some conservation groups supported stronger protections but warned against concentrating too much control in a single organization. Others raised concerns about access and whether visiting anglers would face increasing restrictions. At the same time, Bahamian guides and industry voices pushed back against foreign operators, illegal guiding, and yacht-based businesses that used local fisheries without contributing meaningfully to local economies. That tension has never fully gone away. Bonefish Rely on These Systems Bonefishing is one of the main draws to The Bahamas. For many fly anglers, it is the reason the country sits at the top of bucket lists. Just like trout define Montana, bonefish define The Bahamas. Entire lodges, guide operations, and local economies are built around the consistency and quality of this fishery. Juvenile Bonefish, Red Mangroves in Bonefish Pond National Park But bonefish are not just a product of the flats that anglers see. They are the result of an entire system working together. The fish that tail across white sand on a rising tide have likely spent time moving through mangrove creeks, feeding over seagrass beds, and navigating deeper channels that connect different parts of the coastline. Juvenile bonefish rely heavily on protected mangrove environments, where they are able to grow with reduced predation. As they mature, they spread across the flats, but they remain dependent on the health of everything around them. That is what makes this moment in The Bahamas so important. The same systems that support bonefish are the ones most directly exposed to the types of development now being discussed. Port expansion, dredging, and shoreline construction do not just affect a single location. They alter the structure of the coastline and the water itself. More Info Seagrass beds can be damaged or buried during dredging, removing key feeding areas. Increased sediment in the water can reduce visibility and limit the growth of the grasses that support the entire food chain. Changes to freshwater flow, especially on an island like Andros, can shift salinity levels in ways that affect where bonefish can survive and feed. Mangroves are often the most vulnerable. They sit directly in the path of coastal development, and when they are removed or degraded, the effects are immediate. Losing mangroves means losing nursery habitat. It means fewer juvenile fish reaching maturity. It means fewer fish on the flats over time. None of these changes happen all at once. They build slowly, often out of sight, until the fishery itself begins to feel different. That is why the concerns being raised are not just about access or economics. They are about whether the systems that make bonefishing in The Bahamas possible will still function the same way in the years ahead. Why This Moment Feels Different What makes this moment stand out is scale. This is no longer just about who can guide a boat or sell a fishing trip. It is about national infrastructure, economic control, and long-term development decisions that could reshape entire ecosystems. Ports determine how goods move, how industries grow, and how development expands. In a place like Andros, those decisions are directly tied to land use, water systems, and coastal environments. When those systems change, fisheries change with them. Why This Matters Beyond the Bahamas It would be easy to write this off as a local issue. It is not. The Bahamas is one of the most important saltwater fly fishing destinations in the world. What happens there often reflects broader pressures building across global fisheries. As destinations become more valuable, the same questions start appearing everywhere. Who owns the resource? Who gets paid? Who has access? Who protects the habitat? Who makes the rules? The Bahamas may be in a position to act more aggressively than many other regions. It is a sovereign nation, heavily reliant on tourism, with a globally recognized fishery tied directly to local livelihoods. In places like the United States, similar changes would face more legal complexity due to public access laws, federal land systems, and property rights. But the underlying pressure is the same. Crowding is increasing. Travel is expanding. Fisheries are becoming more economically valuable. And local communities are paying closer attention to how much of that value stays local. The Bigger Question for Fly Fishing This story forces a difficult question. What makes a fishery successful? Is it access? Is it conservation? Is it economic return? The reality is that those goals do not always align. A fishery can be protected but hard to access. It can be open but degraded. It can generate significant tourism revenue while local communities see only a fraction of the benefit. The Bahamas is trying to navigate that balance in real time. Prescott Smith’s warning is rooted in the idea that Bahamians should not lose control of the systems that define their economy. His critics may argue that too much restriction risks limiting opportunity and access. Both sides are responding to the same underlying reality. The fishery is valuable, and that value is growing. Where This Goes Next The outcome of this election will not settle the debate. It will shape the direction of it. Decisions about ports, development, and resource management will continue to influence the flats, the fisheries, and the communities tied to them. For fly anglers, the takeaway is not just about the Bahamas. It is about recognizing that the future of fly fishing is increasingly tied to questions of ownership, control, and long-term stewardship. The next major debates in this sport may not be about techniques, gear, or even access alone. They may be about who gets to decide what happens to the water in the first place. 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 Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF15” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join 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. This month it is Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF15” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join Here. Warriors & Quiet Waters In the mountains of Bozeman, Montana, small groups of veterans arrive carrying experiences most people around them will never fully understand. Some arrive dealing with chronic pain, anxiety, or isolation. Others arrive searching for structure and purpose after military service. And while the setting may look peaceful from the outside, the work being done at Warriors & Quiet Waters reaches far beyond a week of fly fishing. Based in Bozeman, Montana, Warriors & Quiet Waters works with post-9/11 combat veterans through immersive outdoor programs centered on outdoor recreation like fly fishing, archery hunting, photography, and holistic wellness. Focused on guided discussions and long-term personal development. Veterans attend the program in small cohorts, spending a week together at the ranch while participating in outdoor activities, reflection exercises, wellness work, and conversations designed to help them reconnect with themselves and with others. Moment From Warriors and Quiet Waters Programs At first glance, many people see the rivers, the mountains, and the fly fishing and assume the program is simply a retreat. But those who participate in the Built For More Program quickly realize the experience is built around something much deeper. More Than A Week Outdoors One of the defining aspects of Warriors & Quiet Waters is that the experience does not end after a single week in Montana. While the in-person week introduces veterans to fly fishing, outdoor recreation, wellness work, and guided discussions, participants also continue through what the organization calls its “Discovery Phase,” a nine-month period of continued personal development, and the defining of their purpose and path ahead. Discovery Phase, Second of Three Phases in the Program During that time, veterans participate in one-on-one conversations, journaling exercises, wellness work, group discussions, and continued reflection designed to help them build structure and purpose long after they leave the ranch. Eventually, participants return for a capstone experience before continuing into the organization’s alumni engagement network. The larger goal is not simply to provide veterans with a temporary escape from daily life. Instead, Warriors & Quiet Waters focuses on helping veterans build tools, relationships, and support systems that continue long after the Built For More Program ends. A Conversation With Ashlee Perry As part of our Memorial Day coverage, we sat down with Warriors & Quiet Waters Annual Fund Manager and wellness coach Ashlee Perry to better understand the deeper mission behind the organization and why the work being done at the ranch resonates so strongly with veterans. Warriors & Quiet Waters Annual Fund Manager - Ashlee Perry Perry joined the Army National Guard while still in high school before later serving during Hurricane Katrina relief efforts and eventually deploying to Iraq in 2006 as a military police officer stationed outside Baghdad. After leaving the military in 2008, she said she largely disconnected from military life and struggled to find direction in the years that followed. “I wish I knew of a program like Warriors & Quiet Waters back then, because I was just lost,” Perry said. Mountain Range, Bozeman, Mt Over time, Perry found wellness and stability through the outdoors after moving to Montana, eventually becoming heavily involved in trail running and fitness. When she later discovered Warriors & Quiet Waters, she said the organization’s mission immediately resonated with her because it reflected many of the same things that had helped her personally after service. “It almost felt like my life was coming full circle,” Perry said. Today, Perry works not only on the fundraising side of the organization, but also directly with veterans as one of the ranch’s wellness coaches, helping lead movement sessions, guided discussions, and wellness-focused programming throughout the week. That perspective gave valuable insight into how Warriors & Quiet Waters approaches healing, connection, and life after service. Why Fly Fishing Works While fly fishing is one of the most visible parts of the program, the fishing itself is often simply the setting that allows deeper conversations and reflection to happen naturally. The rhythm of casting, long stretches of quiet water, and time spent outdoors create an environment where veterans are able to slow down mentally and reconnect with themselves in ways many have not experienced for years. Warriors & Quiet Waters offers Post 9-11 combat veterans the chance to engage with nature, rediscover purpose, and rebuild community through their long-term Built for More Program. For some participants, simply being surrounded by other veterans becomes one of the most important aspects of the experience. There is less pressure to explain themselves, less need to over-describe experiences, and a greater sense of shared understanding. Throughout the week-long experience in Montana and the guided 6-9 month virtual phase of the program, veterans are encouraged to participate in guided discussions, journaling prompts, and self-reflection exercises focused on identity, purpose, relationships, and life after military service. “What you put into this is what you’re going to get out,” Perry explained while discussing the structure of the program. The Wellness Side Of The Ranch Another part of the Warriors & Quiet Waters experience that many people do not initially realize is the organization’s growing focus on holistic wellness. The ranch recently transformed an unused indoor pool space into a dedicated fitness and training facility where veterans can participate in movement and wellness-focused activities throughout the week. Perry, who is also a certified personal trainer, now helps lead wellness sessions and structured workouts during the programs. Warriors & Quiet Waters Ranch: Bozeman, Montana The focus is not on intense physical training or pushing veterans beyond their limits. Instead, the goal is to help participants reconnect with movement, confidence, and long-term wellness in a supportive environment. “We want to give them the tools to figure out their next purpose in life,” Perry said while explaining the organization’s broader mission. Big Takeaway for This Year Recently, the VA Put together a report, which highlighted the main causes of veteran suicide. The main themes were; hopelessness, isolation, pain, and chronic inflammation. Perry said "we realized that our program basically addresses all of those things". This is an incredibly important focus, as the veteran suicide rate continues to climb year after year. Built For More Warriors & Quiet Waters is dedicated to helping veterans transition from military service by rediscovering purpose beyond their uniforms. The organization emphasizes healing and helping veterans realize they are "built for more." Warriors and Quiet Waters Mission Statement Warriors & Quiet Waters empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature and evidence-based programs that foster growth, discovery, connection, and community. This mission permeates all activities, from guided discussions to quiet interactions in Montana rivers. While it may seem focused on outdoor recreation and fly fishing, the deeper goal is to reconnect veterans with purpose, confidence, and community. Healing often starts quietly, among those who understand the challenges veterans face. 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 Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF15” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join 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. This month it is Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF15” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join Here. Warriors & Quiet Waters As Memorial Day weekend approaches, many Americans begin preparing for cookouts, travel plans, and the unofficial start of summer. But for veteran organizations across the country, the weekend carries a much deeper meaning. This year, Warriors & Quiet Waters is helping bring that meaning into focus in Montana through the first annual Carry The Load Memorial May event in Billings. The event is part of Carry The Load’s nationwide Memorial May campaign, which was created to help restore the true meaning of Memorial Day while honoring veterans, first responders, and those who sacrificed in service to the country. What Is Carry The Load? Carry The Load is a national organization that hosts Memorial May events and rucks across the country each year. Moments From Previous Carry The Load Events The idea behind the movement is simple: encourage communities to come together in active remembrance instead of allowing Memorial Day to become just another long weekend. Events are held in cities across the country and often include walks, rucks, gatherings, speakers, and opportunities for veterans, families, first responders, and civilians to connect. This year marks the first time a Carry The Load Memorial May event will be held in Billings, Montana. The First Event In Billings Warriors & Quiet Waters is helping organize and support the first annual Montana Carry The Load event, which will take place next weekend in Billings. The event will include both a 5K and a 4.5-mile route, along with speakers, a national anthem ceremony, food trucks, community gathering spaces, and tables featuring veteran-focused organizations. Unlike many nonprofit events tied to Memorial Day weekend, the event is not centered around fundraising. Instead, the focus is on bringing the community together in recognition of service, sacrifice, and continued support for veterans and first responders. The event is expected to create a relaxed but meaningful atmosphere where veterans, families, and community members can gather together while reflecting on the significance of Memorial Day. More Than A Fundraiser One of the more unique aspects of the Billings Carry The Load event is that it is intentionally not designed as a fundraising campaign. While Warriors & Quiet Waters and other veteran organizations rely heavily on community support throughout the year, the goal of Carry The Load is centered more around awareness, remembrance, and community participation. The event is meant to create space for people to come together physically and intentionally during Memorial Day weekend instead of simply observing the holiday from a distance. That emphasis on participation and visibility has become a major part of why Carry The Load events continue expanding across the country. Why Events Like This Matter For many veterans and military families, Memorial Day carries emotional weight that can often get lost beneath the noise of holiday weekends and social media posts. Events like Carry The Load are designed to help communities reconnect with the meaning behind the holiday while also reminding people that support for veterans should not begin and end with a single weekend each year. Stats From Carry The Load Organizations like Warriors & Quiet Waters continue that support year-round through programming, community-building, and long-term veteran engagement. But events like Carry The Load create an opportunity for the broader public to participate in that mission together. Looking Ahead As the first annual Carry The Load event arrives in Billings, Warriors & Quiet Waters hopes the event can continue growing in the years ahead while bringing more veterans, families, and community members together. And while the routes, speakers, and gatherings are all important parts of the weekend, the larger goal remains simple. To ensure Memorial Day continues to mean something. Not just as a holiday, but as a reminder of service, sacrifice, and the responsibility to continue supporting those who carried the load long after their military service ends. For the month of May, Casts That Care is proud to partner with Warriors & Quiet Waters. Throughout the month, we will be sharing their story through daily content, highlighting their programs, and expanding awareness within the fly fishing community. We will also be donating 50% of all subscription revenue in May directly to support their work. 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 Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF15” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join 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. This month it is Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF15” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join Here. Warriors & Quiet Waters Memorial Day weekend often brings images of flags, cookouts, long weekends, and the unofficial start of summer. But for many veterans across America, the realities of life after service continue long after the holiday passes. That is part of why organizations like Warriors & Quiet Waters matter. Based in Bozeman, Montana, Warriors & Quiet Waters works with post-9/11 combat veterans through outdoor experiences, including fly fishing, archery hunting, photography, and holistic wellness coaching. Focusing on guided discussions and long-term personal development programming designed to help veterans reconnect with purpose, community, and themselves. While many people are familiar with the organization's weeklong nature experiences, the work being done at the ranch, located outside of Bozeman, Montana, stretches far beyond a week on the water. What Is The Spring Appeal? The Spring Appeal is designed to help fund future WQW programs. All Warriors & Quiet Waters programs are 100% free for the veterans who participate, making community donations and fundraising efforts essential to keeping the programs running and accessible. This year, the organization’s goal for the Spring Appeal is to raise enough support to send one full cohort of veterans through both the immersive week-long Montana experience and the extensive nine-month program that follows. Moments from the Built For More Program by Warriors & Quiet Waters Each Built For More, fly fishing track cohort typically consists of eight veterans who travel to Montana for a week focused on learning how to fly fish alongside professional guides, outdoor recreation, wellness, reflection, and connection alongside fellow veterans. But unlike what many people assume, the experience does not end after the initial trip. Following the in-person week, veterans continue through months of guided discussions, journaling exercises, wellness work, one-on-one conversations, and continued personal development before eventually returning for a capstone experience and alumni engagement opportunities. Gallatin Valley’s annual “Give Big” campaign A major part of this year’s Spring Appeal also coincided with the Gallatin Valley’s annual “Give Big” campaign, a large community-wide fundraising effort involving hundreds of nonprofit organizations across the region. Through local support, sponsors, and community donations, Warriors & Quiet Waters was able to raise a significant portion of its Spring Appeal goal during the campaign, helping push the organization closer toward fully funding the next veteran cohort. The organization has continued highlighting the importance of long-term veteran support throughout the appeal, emphasizing that programs like Warriors & Quiet Waters remain possible because of continued community involvement and donor support. More Than A Retreat One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding organizations like Warriors & Quiet Waters is the idea that they are simply outdoor retreats or week-long fishing trips. While a big part of the Built For More Program is the fly fishing track, the broader mission focuses on helping veterans reconnect with identity, structure, purpose, and community after military service. Programs throughout the week are designed to encourage self-reflection, conversation, wellness, and long-term personal growth. Veterans participate in guided discussions, journaling prompts, wellness sessions, and activities built around reconnecting with themselves and others who understand similar experiences. Warriors and Quiet Waters offers veterans the chance to engage with the outdoors through learning archery, photography, and fly fishing. The organization also places a strong emphasis on holistic wellness. Warriors & Quiet Waters has expanded its wellness programming by developing a fitness and training space at the ranch where veterans can participate in movement and wellness-focused activities during the week. The focus is not intense physical training, but rather helping veterans rebuild healthy habits, reduce stress, regain confidence, and reconnect with movement in a supportive environment. Why The Work Matters For many veterans, one of the most difficult parts of life after service is losing the structure, identity, and sense of mission that military life once provided. Warriors and Quiet Waters, Built For More Program helping veterans rediscover their sense of purpose Organizations like Warriors & Quiet Waters aim to help veterans navigate that transition through long-term support, shared experiences, and community-centered programming. That mission has become increasingly important as conversations surrounding veteran wellness, isolation, chronic pain, and mental health continue growing nationwide. The organization’s current Spring Appeal has also helped highlight the deeper layers behind its programming. While fly fishing and outdoor experiences may initially draw attention, the real focus is on building connection, purpose, and sustainable support systems veterans can carry with them long after leaving Montana. Supporting The Next Cohort Programs like Warriors & Quiet Waters do not happen accidentally. They exist because veterans need them to thrive, communities continue supporting them, and organizations continue investing in long-term solutions instead of short-term gestures. The Spring Appeal is ultimately about making sure that work can continue for the next cohort of veterans who may still be searching for purpose, connection, and a path forward after service. And while the rivers, mountains, and fly fishing may be what first catches people’s attention, Warriors & Quiet Waters hopes the deeper mission is what ultimately stays with them. For the month of May, Casts That Care is proud to partner with Warriors & Quiet Waters. Throughout the month, we will be sharing their story through daily content, highlighting their programs, and expanding awareness within the fly fishing community. We will also be donating 50% of all subscription revenue in May directly to support their work. 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 Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF15” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join 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. This month it is Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF15” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join Here. Throughout the winter, fly anglers across the West watched snowpack numbers fall behind normal across major river basins in places like Oregon, Washington, and Colorado. At the time, much of the conversation centered around one question: what could this mean later in the year? Now, as spring has unfolded and May conditions have taken shape, that question is starting to answer itself. Over the past several weeks, updated snowpack reports, drought declarations, and fisheries observations across the West have begun to show a consistent pattern. Snowpack totals came in well below historical averages in several key regions, and as a result, rivers are already reflecting those deficits through lower flows, earlier peak timing, and rising water temperatures. Idaho Is Already Reflecting Low Snowpack Conditions Idaho is one of the clearest real-time examples of how this year’s low snowpack is translating onto the water. In April 2026, Governor Brad Little approved an emergency drought declaration covering all 44 counties after a historically warm winter and well below average snowpack across much of the state. The declaration was based on current data, not distant projections. By early spring, runoff forecasts and water supply concerns reflected the weak winter snowpack. As of early May, snowpack levels were 55 to 60 percent of normal. Record Low April 1st Snowpack Locations Many river systems experienced earlier rises and quicker drops, unlike the sustained runoff of stronger snow years. Several Idaho basins have not reached typical peak flows and are stabilizing or declining sooner than expected. Compared to 2025, when higher snowpack extended runoff periods, 2026 shows a compressed runoff. This year is characterized by shorter peaks, lower volume, and a quicker transition to early summer flow conditions. Snowpack Totals Came In Below Average Across Much Of The West As of early May 2026, multiple western basins reported snow water equivalent totals significantly below normal. In parts of the Pacific Northwest, snowpack hovered well below the 30-year median, while areas of the Rockies also reported deficits heading into peak melt season. 2026 Western Snow Water Equivalent - ClimateCentral.org In Washington, statewide conditions were severe enough that officials issued a drought declaration in April, marking the fourth consecutive year the state has taken that step. Snow drought conditions were cited as a primary driver, with reduced accumulation during the winter months limiting the total volume of water available for runoff. Compared to spring 2025, when many basins entered May closer to average snowpack levels, 2026 has started from a noticeably lower baseline. That difference is already showing up in how rivers are behaving. Rivers Are Peaking Earlier And At Lower Levels One of the clearest signals over the past few weeks has been the timing and scale of runoff. In a typical year, gradual warming allows snow to melt over a longer period, creating sustained high flows through late spring. This year, however, a combination of lower snowpack and periodic warm stretches has led to earlier melt in several regions. The result has not been unusually large runoff events, but rather shorter, less sustained peaks. In some basins, peak flows are arriving earlier in May and dropping more quickly than historical norms. This is a meaningful shift when compared to last year, when higher snowpack levels supported longer runoff periods and more consistent late spring flows in many western rivers. Water Stored in Snowpack 2026 Season as Compared to Past Years Median across the West - ClimateCentral.org Early Signs Of Lower Summer Water Conditions Beyond runoff timing, early May data and field reports are already pointing toward reduced water availability heading into summer. In Oregon, fisheries and conservation groups have begun raising concerns about declining streamflows and the potential for elevated water temperatures as the season progresses. Lower water levels reduce habitat availability and can concentrate fish into smaller sections of river, increasing stress on both trout and native salmonids. Across parts of Colorado and the broader Rocky Mountain region, outlooks are similarly cautious. Forecasts indicate below average streamflows in several basins, with concerns that rivers may transition into summer conditions earlier than usual. These patterns contrast with 2025, when higher carryover snowpack helped sustain flows deeper into the summer in many areas. Water Temperature And Habitat Pressure Are Emerging Early With reduced runoff volume and earlier peak timing, water temperatures are beginning to enter the conversation sooner than normal. Lower flows tend to warm more quickly, particularly during extended periods of warm weather. While widespread temperature-related fishing restrictions have not yet been implemented in most regions, agencies and conservation groups are already monitoring conditions closely. Seasonal temperature outlook for June through August 2026, showing widespread above-average heat across the western United States. Warmer air temperatures accelerate snowmelt, reduce late-season flows, and increase pressure on river temperatures In systems that support coldwater species, including trout and salmon, even small increases in temperature can have significant biological effects. Oxygen levels drop, metabolic stress increases, and fish become more vulnerable to disease and handling pressure. The key point is not that these impacts are fully realized yet, but that the conditions that lead to them are already developing earlier in the season than many anglers are used to. A Clearer Picture Is Beginning To Form The story of 2026 in the West is no longer just about a low snowpack winter. It is about how that winter is translating into real, observable conditions on the water. So far, the pattern is consistent across multiple regions. Snowpack totals came in below average. Runoff has been shorter and, in some places, earlier. Rivers are already showing signs of reduced flow compared to recent years. And concerns about summer water conditions are beginning to surface sooner than usual. This does not mean every river will fish poorly, or that every region will experience the same level of impact. Western fisheries are complex, and local conditions will continue to vary widely. But as of mid May, one thing is becoming clear. The effects of this winter’s snowpack are already here, and they are shaping the early part of the 2026 fly fishing season in real time. 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 Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF15” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join 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. This month it is Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF15” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join Here. What Does Fly Rod Weight Actually Mean Fly rod weight is one of the first things anglers learn, but it is also one of the most misunderstood. When someone says they fish a 5-weight or an 8-weight, they are not describing the physical weight of the rod. They are describing the weight of the fly line the rod is designed to cast. Fly Rod Weight Chart In fly fishing, the line carries the mass that loads the rod during the cast. Because flies are typically too light to cast on their own, the rod is built to match a specific range of line weights. Those weights are standardized based on the grain weight of the first 30 feet of fly line. That is why a 5-weight rod pairs with a 5-weight line. The number is simply a system that ensures the rod and line work together properly. Once that concept is understood, everything else about fly rod weights starts to make more sense. The Problem Fly Fishing Needed to Solve Before modern gear, fly fishing worked very differently. Rods were made from bamboo, lines were made from silk, and matching the two was not always straightforward. Because the fly itself carries almost no weight, anglers relied entirely on the line to load the rod and deliver the cast. That meant the relationship between rod and line was critical, but there was no universal system to guide it. Rod makers and line makers worked more like craftsmen than manufacturers. Anglers often had to experiment, test combinations, or rely on experience to find a setup that worked. As the sport grew, that lack of standardization became a real limitation. Before Numbers, There Were Letters Early fly lines were not labeled with numbers. Instead, they used a letter-based system like HDH, HCH, or GBF. Old Style Line Diameter Chart These letters referred to the diameter and taper of the line rather than its exact weight. In the era of silk lines, diameter and weight were closely connected, so this system worked well enough for both anglers and rod builders. But it was not precise. Two lines with similar designations could still behave differently, and matching them to rods required a level of knowledge that made the sport less accessible to new anglers. The Synthetic Revolution Changed Everything In the mid-20th century, fly fishing went through one of its biggest technological shifts. Synthetic fly lines began replacing traditional silk. These new lines were more durable, easier to maintain, and more consistent. They helped open the sport to a wider audience. But they also broke the old system. With synthetic materials, diameter was no longer a reliable indicator of weight. Coatings, cores, and tapers could all vary, meaning two lines of the same size could cast very differently. The industry needed a new standard that could work across different materials and designs. The Birth of the Weight System The solution was to measure the actual mass of the fly line. Instead of relying on diameter, manufacturers began classifying lines by the weight of the first 30 feet, measured in grains. This became the foundation of the modern system used today. Each line weight was assigned a specific range. For example, a 5-weight line falls within a defined grain range, and rods are designed to cast within that range. That is where the numbers come from. They are not arbitrary. They are a standardized way to match rods and lines so that they function together properly. Why Thirty Feet Matters The decision to measure the first 30 feet of line was practical. For most trout fishing situations, that distance represents a typical casting range. By standardizing the weight over that length, manufacturers could create a system that reflected how anglers actually fish. It gave rod builders a target and gave anglers a consistent expectation when they paired gear together. Evolution Of Fly Rod Weights Why the System Feels Less Clear Today Even though the system is standardized, many anglers notice that not all lines of the same weight feel the same. That is because modern fly lines are designed with specific purposes in mind. Some are built to load rods quickly at short distances. Others are designed to cast farther, turn over large flies, or handle wind. To achieve that, manufacturers often adjust taper designs and weight distribution. In some cases, lines are intentionally built heavier within or even slightly beyond the traditional standard to better match modern fast-action rods. As a result, a 5-weight line today may feel very different from another 5-weight line, even though both technically fit within the same classification. What This System Really Represents The fly rod weight system is more than a labeling convention. It represents a turning point in the evolution of the sport. It marks the shift from handcrafted gear and informal matching to a more standardized, accessible system that allowed more people to enter fly fishing with confidence. At the same time, it shows how the sport continues to evolve. Modern materials, rod actions, and line designs are constantly pushing against the boundaries of that original system. The numbers on a fly rod are still useful, but they are not the full story. They are a guide, built on decades of innovation, and a reminder that every cast still depends on one simple principle. The rod does not cast the fly. The line does.

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 Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF15” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join Here. NIWA Boat ramp surveys boost knowledge of recreational fishery Recreational fishing has always had a data problem. Commercial landings get weighed and counted at docks and fish houses, but most recreational fish never touch a scale. The redfish caught from a kayak, the snapper thrown back offshore, and the bluegill pulled from a neighborhood pond all create fishing pressure that managers need to understand. Yet because those fish often go right back into the water, they don't leave much of a paper trail. How many fish do recreational anglers actually catch? That's a surprisingly tough question. The answer affects bag limits, seasons, size regulations, and the long‑term health of fish populations. Today, it comes from a patchwork of surveys and statistical models that estimate catch and effort from relatively small samples. Those surveys include dockside interviews, mail and phone surveys, and electronic logs, but none of them paint a complete picture on their own. How Data Are Currently Collected In saltwater, NOAA's Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) collects data through regional surveys. Interviewers talk to anglers at boat ramps, beaches, and piers to estimate catch rate. Broader effort surveys estimate how often people go fishing. Some Gulf states, including Florida, have developed their own certified surveys to refine these estimates. Freshwater agencies use creel surveys to interview anglers on‑site about catch, harvest, and effort on specific lakes and rivers. NOAA's current monitoring efforts. Despite these efforts, there are huge numbers of trips to track. In 2024, nearly 58 million Americans went fishing. More than 43 million fished in freshwater and 15 million fished in saltwater, accounting for hundreds of millions of outings. Estimating total catch from samples across so many anglers, access points and water bodies is an enormous statistical challenge. How Many Areas and People Are Surveyed Because interviewers and biologists can't be everywhere at once, surveys focus on representative locations. Freshwater creel surveys rotate among lakes and reservoirs based on management priorities and available funds. Saltwater surveys concentrate on public launch sites and popular beaches. In Florida, for example, creel surveys in a given year might cover fewer than two dozen lakes, while MRIP samples anglers at a fraction of the state's boat ramps. Sampling works when angler behaviour at unmonitored sites looks like behaviour at sampled sites, but that's not always true. Private docks, small ramps, kayak launches and remote ponds often escape the survey net. Shore‑based anglers and urban fishing programs may be under‑represented. The sheer diversity of fishing situations makes it hard to draw a perfect sample. Electrofishing: Shocking Fish to Count Them Electrofishing is a common tool in freshwater fisheries science, where biologists use a controlled electrical current to temporarily stun fish, net them, record data, and release them. It gives managers a direct look at what species are present and how fish populations are structured. Example of Electrofishing But it has limits. The electrical field is most effective in shallow water, meaning fish holding deeper, often larger fish, can be missed. That can bias data toward younger, smaller or more accessible fish, especially in lakes and deeper rivers. As for ethics, when done properly, electrofishing is considered safe and widely accepted. Fish are only stunned briefly and typically recover within seconds, though some stress and rare injury can occur. Like most data collection methods in fishing, it is useful, but incomplete. How Accurate Are the Numbers? Statistical models can account for sampling design and extrapolate from observed data, but uncertainty remains. Anglers sometimes misidentify species or forget how many fish they released. Recall bias affects mail surveys; non‑response bias affects voluntary reporting apps. Released fish are particularly opaque because they never pass through a dockside count. “Sampling errors impact the precision of our recreational catch estimates, or how confident we can be in the specific number of fish, trips, or pounds we report. Precision is represented by a confidence interval as a part of each estimate. It shows—with a 95 percent degree of certainty—what the maximum and minimum value associated with that estimate could be. The larger the interval, the less confident we can be that our estimate reflects the true value of what we’re measuring. Non-sampling errors can impact both the precision and accuracy of our estimates. When these errors are random, they can reduce precision, but generally don't create a bias. When they are systematic, either consistently high or low, then these errors can introduce bias in the estimates.” -NOAA Fisheries (Answering Your Questions About Survey Errors) In simple terms, fisheries data is not a single number, it is a range. If an estimate says anglers caught a certain number of fish, the real number could be significantly higher or lower depending on the confidence interval. The wider that range, the less precise the estimate becomes. The second part is just as important. Not all errors are equal. Random errors add noise, but systematic errors are where things get more complicated. If anglers consistently overreport, underreport, or certain types of fishing are missed entirely, the data can be skewed in one direction. That is where the real challenge lies. It is not just about how wide the range is, it is about whether the entire estimate is leaning too high or too low. New Approaches: Cameras on Boats and Beyond Recognizing gaps, managers try new tools. Florida's "Cast for Cash" tests temporary cameras on boats in Tampa Bay, paying anglers to record reef-fish trips. This provides video evidence of kept and released fish, reducing misidentification and bias, and capturing release behavior. NOAA Cameras However, cameras alone aren't enough; the sample is limited, favoring boat anglers and excluding shore, wading, kayaking, and freshwater fishing. Privacy and buy-in are issues. Electronic logbooks and apps are another option, with anglers reporting catch and effort in real-time, and some captains already filing digital logs. But, volunteer data may not be representative, and mandatory reporting questions arise. Is There a Better Way? Given the complexity of recreational fishing, there probably isn't one perfect way to count every fish. A more accurate system will likely combine multiple methods: traditional surveys to provide long‑term baselines, electronic reporting to capture more trips, cameras to verify species and releases, vehicle or drone counts at inlets to measure offshore effort, and periodic, intensive studies to calibrate the models. Freshwater agencies could use rotating creel surveys supplemented by automatic counters at busy ramps, license‑linked surveys, and optional mobile reporting. Saltwater managers might pair dockside interviews with state surveys, for‑hire logbooks, remote cameras, and targeted on‑water observation. The goal isn't to eliminate uncertainty, but to shrink it and be transparent about what the data can and cannot say. Rethinking the Process Because recreational fishing is so decentralized, managers need to rethink what success looks like. Perfect accuracy may be impossible. Instead, the focus should be on achieving better confidence intervals, faster updates and more adaptive management. New technology can help, but so can better communication with anglers about why their participation in surveys matters. Understanding recreational catch isn't just about numbers on a spreadsheet; it's about ensuring there are healthy fish populations for future generations of anglers. With thoughtful investment in data collection and a willingness to layer old and new approaches, we can get closer to the truth about the fish that get released, and make sure they have a better chance of being caught again. 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 Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF15” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join 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. This month it is Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF15” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join Here. River In Sundance, Utah A Long Term Shift Is Coming to Western Fisheries In March, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources released a comprehensive long term strategy focused on fish production and stocking across the state. This is not a short term adjustment or a seasonal regulation update. It is a 30 year plan that outlines how Utah intends to raise, stock, and manage fish populations through changing environmental conditions and increasing angler demand. At its core, the plan recognizes a reality that is becoming harder to ignore across the West. The waters anglers have relied on for decades are changing, and the systems used to manage those waters must evolve alongside them. What Utah is Actually Saying The plan identifies several long term pressures that are already affecting fisheries across the state. Water temperatures are increasing in many systems, particularly during summer months. Drought cycles are becoming more frequent, which reduces reservoir levels and stream flows. Lower water levels also concentrate fish populations, increase stress, and reduce the amount of available coldwater habitat. These conditions directly impact trout, which require cold, oxygen rich water to survive and reproduce. Even small increases in temperature can reduce growth rates, increase mortality, and limit natural reproduction. In tailwaters and high elevation systems, trout may remain stable, but in lower elevation reservoirs and streams, conditions are becoming less reliable. The plan acknowledges that these environmental changes are not temporary. They are part of a longer trend that will shape fisheries over the next several decades. Quote from DWR Sportfish Coordinator Trina Hedrick “We want anglers to know that we hear the projections for Utah, and we see and experience the changes in our fisheries as well... We face a number of challenges for effective fish conservation and management in the coming years, and we can’t do it alone. If we are going to address these challenges, we need help from the anglers who enjoy fishing in Utah. We are increasing our efforts to better understand fishing experiences at many of Utah’s waters, and over the next few years, anglers may see more requests to provide feedback about their fishing experiences, especially as some of the stocking changes are implemented. Public satisfaction is a key component of our sportfish management actions and receiving feedback is crucial to these efforts. This plan will help us navigate the future more clearly and more efficiently.” A Shift Away From Trout Everywhere One of the most significant conclusions in the plan is that not all waters will continue to support trout at the same level they have in the past. In some cases, trout may still be stocked, but survival rates may decline. In other cases, agencies may need to reconsider whether stocking trout is the best long term use of resources. As a result, Utah is preparing for a future where certain fisheries transition toward warmwater species such as bass, bluegill, or other panfish that are better suited to warmer and more variable conditions. These species are more tolerant of higher temperatures and lower oxygen levels, which makes them more stable in reservoirs and low elevation systems. This represents a meaningful shift in management philosophy. For decades, trout have been the default species across many western fisheries, even in waters that require ongoing stocking to maintain populations. Moving away from that model in select locations signals a broader change in how fisheries are evaluated and managed. Hatcheries Are Becoming More Strategic Utah is not reducing its reliance on hatcheries. Instead, it is refining how hatchery production is used. The plan emphasizes producing fish that are better matched to the environments where they will be stocked. This includes adjusting species selection, stocking sizes, and release timing to improve survival rates and overall fishery performance. Hatcheries will continue to play a critical role in maintaining fishing opportunity, particularly in waters where natural reproduction is limited or inconsistent. However, the focus is shifting from simply producing large numbers of fish to producing the right fish for specific conditions. This approach reflects a broader trend in fisheries management. Agencies are moving toward more targeted and data driven strategies rather than relying on uniform stocking practices across all waters. Year Fish Stocked in Utah 2020 8.2M 2021 9.6M 2022 8.2M 2023 10.6M 2025 11.66M Native Fish and Angler Expectations Coexist Another key component of the plan is balancing native species conservation with recreational fishing opportunity. Utah has ongoing efforts to restore and protect native fish populations, including Bonneville cutthroat trout and other species that have been historically displaced or reduced. At the same time, recreational fishing remains an important part of the state’s outdoor economy and culture. Anglers expect consistent opportunity, which often depends on stocking programs and accessible fisheries. These goals do not always align. Increasing native fish protections can limit stocking in certain areas, while maintaining high catch rates may require continued hatchery support. The plan addresses this by identifying waters where native restoration will be prioritized and others where recreational opportunity will remain the primary focus. This is Bigger Than Utah Utah’s plan stands out because it clearly defines how fisheries management is adapting to long term change. However, the challenges it outlines are not unique to the state. Across the West and throughout the United States, agencies are facing similar conditions, including warming water, increased fishing pressure, and reduced habitat stability. Reservoir storage levels across the Western U.S (2025) In response, fisheries are becoming more actively managed systems. Decisions about species, stocking rates, and habitat use are increasingly based on environmental data, long term projections, and angler demand. The idea of a stable, unchanging fishery is becoming less realistic in many regions. Instead, fisheries are being continuously adjusted to maintain both ecological function and recreational access. A Different Version of the Future For anglers, this raises an important question. What does fly fishing look like if fewer waters are consistently managed for trout In some areas, anglers may need to adapt by targeting different species or fishing different types of water. Warmwater fisheries may become more common in places that were once known primarily for trout. In other areas, coldwater fisheries may become more valuable and more carefully protected. High elevation streams, spring fed systems, and tailwaters may take on increased importance as reliable trout habitat. The overall experience of fly fishing may become more varied, depending on location and environmental conditions. The Takeaway Utah’s 30 year plan is not about removing trout from the landscape. It is about recognizing that environmental conditions are changing and that fisheries management must respond in a structured and long term way. The plan shows a shift toward more strategic hatchery use, more targeted species management, and a clearer balance between conservation and recreation. For anglers, this means the future of fishing will not be defined by a single model. It will depend on how each fishery is managed based on its specific conditions. For Anglers Paying Attention This type of planning does not generate daily headlines, but it has long term consequences for how and where people fish. Decisions made today about stocking, species selection, and habitat management will shape fisheries for decades. Utah has made those decisions visible through a 30 year framework. Other states are likely to follow with similar approaches as they face the same environmental and recreational pressures. 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 Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF15” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join 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. This month it is Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF25” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join Here. Warriors & Quiet Waters A Different Kind of Return Home Warriors & Quiet Waters is built around a simple but powerful idea. That post-9/11 combat veterans deserve the opportunity not just to adjust after service, but to thrive, to rediscover purpose, and to build meaningful connection in the next chapter of their lives. Through experiences in nature and structured, evidence-based programs, the organization creates an environment where that kind of growth is possible. And for many, that process begins with fly fishing. What Warriors & Quiet Waters Does Based in Montana, Warriors & Quiet Waters is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping post-9/11 combat veterans rediscover purpose, connection, and strength through immersive experiences in nature. Quiet Waters Ranch, Bozeman, MT. Fly fishing is an entry point, but it is only one part of a much larger system. Their programs are intentionally designed. Veterans are brought into an environment where they can slow down, learn something new, and reconnect with both nature and a community of people who understand their experiences. Every element, from time on the water to structured group sessions, is built with purpose. Built for More: A Long-Term Approach At the core of the organization is the Built for More program, which sets Warriors & Quiet Waters apart from many traditional outdoor-based initiatives. This is not a one-week experience. It is a structured, multi-phase program that can extend over nine to twelve months, combining immersive outdoor experiences with continued engagement, mentorship, and personal development. Moments from the Built For More Program Participants begin with a multi-day experience at Quiet Waters Ranch in Montana, where fly fishing becomes the foundation. Veterans learn casting, reading water, entomology, and presentation, but just as importantly, they begin rebuilding routine, confidence, and connection. From there, they transition into continued programming that focuses on long-term growth. This includes community engagement, goal setting, and opportunities to reconnect with fellow participants. The intention is clear. Not just to provide a moment of relief, but to create a lasting shift. Why Fly Fishing Works Fly fishing is uniquely suited for this kind of work. It requires presence. It demands focus, but not urgency. It allows for progression without pressure. There is a rhythm to it. The cast, the pause, the forward motion. The read of the water. The patience required to stay in it. Moments from the Built For More Program For veterans navigating the shift into civilian life, that rhythm can be grounding. It creates space to think, or not think at all. It builds confidence through skill. And it offers something simple but powerful: time. Time outside. Time with others. Time to reset. Why May Matters May is Military Appreciation Month, making it a natural time to highlight the work being done by Warriors & Quiet Waters. It is also a month where their mission becomes especially active, with two key initiatives that drive both awareness and direct support. In the sections that follow, we will highlight both their Spring Appeal and a major community event taking place at the end of the month. The Spring Appeal One of the most important initiatives this month is the Warriors & Quiet Waters Spring Appeal, a focused fundraising effort designed to expand access to their programs and ensure more veterans can participate in the months ahead. The appeal centers around resilience, transformation, and community, all of which are core to the organization’s work. Contributions made during this time directly support program delivery, helping fund the multi-day immersive experiences and the long-term support that follows. "All donations made before 5/31/26 up to $38,000 will be generously matched." During this campaign, donations are matched up to a set amount. This means that each contribution is effectively doubled until the matching pool is reached. A $50 donation becomes $100 toward the program, increasing the impact of every dollar given. Carry The Load: A Community Moment At the end of the month, that mission becomes visible in a different way. On May 30, Warriors & Quiet Waters will co-host the Montana Carry The Load event at Rocky Mountain College in Billings. Moments from Previous Carry The Load Events Carry The Load is a national movement built around honoring the sacrifices of military members, veterans, first responders, and their families. The Billings event marks the first time this initiative is being brought to the state of Montana. Participants can ruck, walk, or run, carrying weight as a symbolic act of remembrance and respect. Others simply show up to be part of it. You do not have to be a veteran to participate. That is the point. Events like this bring visibility to a mission that often operates quietly, creating a space where the broader community can step in, acknowledge, and support. What This Partnership Means For the month of May, Casts That Care is proud to partner with Warriors & Quiet Waters. Throughout the month, we will be sharing their story through daily content, highlighting their programs, and expanding awareness within the fly fishing community. We will also be donating 50% of all subscription revenue in May directly to support their work. This is not a single feature. It is a sustained effort to tell their story with depth and consistency. How to Support If you are already part of Casts That Care, you are already contributing. If not, this is a meaningful time to join. Your subscription this month directly supports Warriors & Quiet Waters. You can also support by contributing to their Spring Appeal or participating in the Carry The Load event on May 30. You can also follow along with their story on social media. Looking Ahead This is just the beginning. Over the coming weeks, we will be sharing deeper stories, including perspectives from participants, insights into the program structure, and a closer look at the long-term impact being created. Because fly fishing can do more than catch fish. It can help people find their way forward. 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 Warriors & Quiet Waters Use code “WQWF25” for 25% off your first month, and we’ll donate an extra 15% to support their mission. Join 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 percent of all subscription fees to a different fishing-related nonprofit each month. Join Here. For decades, recreational anglers in North America focused primarily on trout, bass, and salmon. These species remain dominant, but a measurable shift is underway. Across a base of more than 57 million U.S. anglers taking over 200 million fishing trips annually, more fishermen are beginning to target non-traditional species such as carp, buffalo, gar, and suckers. What was once considered ‘rough fish’ is now gaining legitimacy as a sport category, and that shift is beginning to influence both angling culture and the fishing gear industry. The Appeal of Carp and Other Unique Species Carp fishing has exploded in popularity, particularly in the United States. In Europe and Asia, carp have long been considered a premier sport fish, but in North America they were historically dismissed as invasive or undesirable. Smallmouth Buffalo Fish That perception is changing. Carp offer a unique challenge: they are wary, strong fighters, and can grow to impressive sizes. In June 2025, an Idaho angler landed a new state-record grass carp weighing 67.65 pounds, while Connecticut saw a 58-pound common carp record set the same year. These trophy-sized catches fuel interest and attract new anglers to the pursuit. Community events have also helped drive awareness. For example, the Cass River Greenway in Michigan held its first Rough Fish Derby in 2025 as part of the state’s Free Fishing Weekend. Hundreds of participants gathered to target species outside the usual bass and trout categories. In Australia, the Namoi Carp Muster continues to attract anglers of all ages to target invasive carp, blending sport with ecological management. Market Growth and Gear Sales The broader fishing industry provides important context for this shift. The global fishing equipment market was valued at approximately $28 billion in 2025 and is projected to exceed $41 billion by 2034, growing at a steady rate of around 4 to 5 percent annually. In the United States alone, the recreational fishing equipment market is estimated at roughly $5 billion, supported by tens of millions of active anglers. Within that, fly fishing represents a smaller but faster-growing segment. The global fly fishing market is expected to grow from approximately $1.12 billion in 2025 to over $2 billion by 2035, maintaining a compound annual growth rate near 6 percent. This steady growth makes shifts in angler behavior more significant. As more anglers move toward species like carp and buffalo, even small changes in demand are beginning to influence how gear is designed, marketed, and sold At the same time, steady industry growth of roughly 4 percent annually means companies are increasingly willing to invest in niche categories, including gear designed for warmwater, multi-species, and carp-focused fishing. Changing Perceptions and Conservation Impact There are cultural and ecological dimensions to this trend. Targeting non-traditional species spreads angling pressure across more fish populations, potentially relieving stress on heavily fished trout and bass waters. At the same time, harvesting invasive species like common carp can support ecological goals. Agencies often encourage this kind of fishing as part of habitat management. Still, there are risks. As more anglers pursue these fish, populations of large trophy individuals could decline without proper regulation. Many states lack slot limits or bag limits for these species, leaving management gaps. Education on catch-and-release methods and responsible angling practices will be critical as popularity grows. Why Carp Matter “Globally, carp are far from a fringe species. The global carp market exceeds $100 billion annually, driven largely by aquaculture and food production. In regions like Europe and Asia, carp have long been respected as both a food source and a sport fish. North America has historically lagged behind in that perception, but the growing interest among anglers suggests a cultural shift toward aligning with global perspectives on the species.” The Future of Alternative Species Fishing Looking ahead, the rise in popularity of carp and other non-traditional fish is likely to continue. Anglers are seeking new challenges, social media is amplifying the appeal, and the tackle industry is investing in products that cater to this market. Conservation agencies may begin to introduce new regulations to manage these fisheries sustainably. What was once seen as a fringe pursuit is now firmly part of the mainstream fishing economy. For gear makers, guides, and conservationists, the growing attention on non-traditional species represents both opportunity and responsibility. 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 percent of all subscription fees to a different fishing-related nonprofit each month. Join 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 percent of all subscription fees to a different fishing-related nonprofit each month. Join Here. Recreational fishing has always followed people, not markets. When times are good, anglers travel farther, spend more, and chase bigger experiences. But when the economy tightens, something different happens. The question is not just whether fly fishing grows, but how it changes. At a broad level, fishing has proven to be one of the most resilient outdoor activities in the United States. According to the American Sportfishing Association, roughly 57–58 million Americans fish each year, representing one of the largest participation bases in all outdoor recreation. Even more telling, participation surged during the COVID-era disruption, reaching record highs as people sought accessible, local activities. This does not necessarily mean more people suddenly become fly anglers during downturns. Instead, it points to something more subtle. People lean into what they already have. The Cheap Escape During economic downturns, spending patterns shift. Large discretionary expenses like travel, destination trips, and luxury experiences are often the first to be cut. In their place, people move toward lower-cost, high-value activities. Economists often refer to this as the “lipstick effect,” where spending does not disappear; it shifts toward small, personal luxury items like lipstick, haircare products, and your daily coffee. Outdoor recreation data supports this shift. Following the 2008 financial crisis, spending on high-cost recreation declined, while participation in lower-cost, nature-based activities held steady or increased. Fly fishing fits this model unusually well. Once initial gear is purchased, the marginal cost of fishing is relatively low. A local river or pond replaces a plane ticket. A few hours on the water replaces a weekend trip. Compared to golf, skiing, or travel-based recreation, fly fishing becomes a cost-efficient form of escape. In that sense, fly fishing shifts from a luxury to a personal reset. More Time on the Water The more compelling question is not whether new anglers enter the sport (because common sense says that people probably won't splurge on a new hobby during an economic downturn), but whether existing anglers fish more. There is strong behavioral evidence that they do. During periods of economic stress, people consistently seek activities that provide control, routine, and stress relief. Research on recreation behavior shows that time spent in nature increases during periods of uncertainty, as individuals look for accessible ways to manage stress and maintain well-being. Outdoor Participation Rate 2007-2022: Showing an increase during the 2008 financial crisis and a huge increase during the COVID-19 pandemic years Fly fishing aligns directly with this behavior. Instead of spending more money, anglers shift toward spending more time. Shorter, local trips increase. After-work sessions become more common. Fishing becomes less of an occasional activity and more of a routine. This is not always captured in participation data. Most datasets track how many people fish, not how often each person goes. But the shift from occasional to frequent participation may be one of the most important changes during a downturn. Where Spending Falls Off While time on the water may increase, spending tends to move in the opposite direction. High-cost segments of the industry are typically the first to feel pressure. Destination fly fishing trips, particularly to locations like Alaska, Patagonia, and the Bahamas, are highly sensitive to economic conditions. Guided trips and premium experiences follow a similar pattern. (Spring 2020): In early 2020, booking services, lodges, and guides reported that 75 to 80 percent of previously reserved trips were cancelled or rescheduled. International trips in particular faced a 93 percent drop in arrivals, forcing travel operators to cancel hundreds of bookings, causing significant staff reductions. Gear purchasing behavior also changes. Rather than upgrading to top-tier rods and reels, anglers often shift toward mid-range or value-focused products. The used gear market tends to become more active, and repair or maintenance replaces replacement. This creates a split within the industry. Participation and usage remain strong, but revenue per angler can decline. The DIY Factor Economic pressure often pushes people toward do-it-yourself behavior, and fly fishing is no exception. In theory, downturns should increase interest in fly tying. Producing flies at home reduces long-term costs and increases self-sufficiency. Historically, many outdoor hobbies have seen a rise in DIY participation during periods of economic constraint. Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash However, long-term data suggests a different trend. The percentage of anglers who tie their own flies has declined significantly over the past two decades, dropping from roughly 30 percent to closer to 10–15 percent today. This creates a tension within the sport. Short-term economic pressure encourages cost-saving and self-reliance, while long-term trends show a shrinking base of anglers with the skills to do so. How those forces interact may shape the future of fly fishing culture. A Shift, Not a Surge The idea that fly fishing simply increases during a recession is too simplistic. The data and behavior suggest something more nuanced. Participation tends to remain stable or rise slightly, but the larger shift happens within the individual angler. Trips become more frequent but shorter. Spending becomes more conservative. The focus moves from expansion to consistency. Fly fishing does not necessarily grow in a downturn. It becomes more important to the people who already do it. Rethinking Growth This raises a broader question for the industry. If economic downturns increase time on the water but decrease spending, how should success be measured? Outdoor recreation contributes more than $1 trillion annually to the U.S. economy, with fishing and boating representing one of the largest segments. Yet those numbers do not fully capture behavioral intensity, how often anglers fish, how much time they spend, and how deeply they engage. For fly shops, guides, and brands, adapting to this shift may be critical. Value, accessibility, and local engagement can become more important than premium positioning during uncertain times. For anglers, the change is often quieter. More evenings on familiar water. Fewer flights. More time spent fishing not as a trip, but as a habit. Fly fishing does not operate outside the economy, but it responds to it differently than most industries. When money tightens, people may not pick up a fly rod for the first time. But the ones who already have one often use it more than ever. 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 percent of all subscription fees to a different fishing-related nonprofit each month. Join Here.