Issuu

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Travel Reference The Fly Shop® travel team has spent a veritable lifetime vetting all these destinations to make sure they meet our own standards. We know the best times to go, who to fish with, the right tackle to take, and the easiest ways to get there. THE FLY SHOP’S FOUR PILLARS OF TRUST

Competence E x p e r i e n c e For over 48 years, The Fly Shop® has developed the skills, knowledge, expertise and experience to help you choose a destination that best suits your wants, needs and budget.

Consistency R e l i a b i l i t y When we say we are going to do something, we do it. Period. We’ve been keeping our promises for close to 50 years. And in the rare instances when something doesn’t go as planned, we are your advocate and in your corner.

Care C o m p a s s i o n We are passionate about ﬂy ﬁshing travel, and take each and every angler’s trip to heart. We care deeply about your well-being, safety and complete satisfaction; it’s our promise to you.

Communication C a n d o r Our communications with you will be open, honest and direct. We don’t overpromise and represent each of our angling destinations with integrity and transparency.

Chile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9 Argentina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-17 Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-30 Gearing Up For Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-25 The Spirit Of Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-39 New Zealand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-43 Mongolia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45-47 The Grand Slam of Swing . . . . . . . . . . . 48-49 Alaska Swing Destinations . . . . . . . . . . 50-51 British Columbia Swing . . . . . . . . . . . . 52-53 Iceland Swing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54-55 Tierra del Fuego Swing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56-57 Argentina Jungle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59-61 Tanzania Tigerfish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Brazil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63-69 Gearing Up For The Jungle . . . . . . . . . . 70-71 Bolivia

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73-77

Venezuela Jungle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Fly Fishing Travel brought to you by the People you can Trust. INTERNATIONAL

FLY

F I S H I N G has never offered more incredible

opportunities or more complexity. Selecting the perfect destination and orchestrating every detail can be a daunting task. Let The Fly Shop® handle the heavy lifting. Our seasoned travel staff will provide expert guidance at no extra cost, helping you navigate every step of your journey with absolute confidence. Our Four Pillars of Trust – Competence, Consistency, Care, and Communication – ensure your fly fishing trip is managed with unparalleled expertise, honest advice, and a seamless path to an unforgettable adventure. Trust the professionals who have defined the standard of fly fishing travel since 1978.

Colombia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79-81 Bahamas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84-87 Cuba . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88-91 Gear For Saltwater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Mexican Yucatan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93-95 Belize . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96-97 Baja . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Honduras

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Guatemala/Venezuela . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Indian Ocean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102-103 Oman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Los Roques Venezuela

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Christmas Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106-107 Australia

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108-109

Arkansas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Pat Pendergast Director of International Travel

Montana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112-115 Colorado . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116-117 Idaho . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Wyoming

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Washington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Texas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122 Louisiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 Northern California . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124-129 Destination Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130-131 Hosted Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132 Cover photo: New Zealand by Brian O’Keefe email:

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Chile

Christmas kicks off Summer in Chile, Patagonia’s ﬁnest ﬁshing O P E N I N G D A Y in Chile is in November, and trout season

starts in late November, as the landscape sets ablaze with a mind-

continues until the leaves turn crimson and drop with the arrival of

baffling wildflower display, known locally as “Chocho” (Chilean word

winter in late April. The summers of Patagonia are abbreviated, much

for “Lupine Season”). European Lupine carpet the landscape in an

like those of Montana and Wyoming. Warm days often begin with cool

explosion of violets, reds, purples and yellows. Fish are on the surface,

mornings and can be interrupted by a sudden thunderstorm. But for

targeting caddis and mayfly emergences, as well as blizzard hatches of

the most part, the best time to visit this fantastic part of the world is

small creamy moths.

from mid-November through mid-April.

The Fly Shop® has been helping anglers with their Chile, Patagonia

November is traditionally a time when North American fishermen are preoccupied with family and holidays. But Coyhaique-based, Nico

fly fishing adventures for over 40 years. No one is better dialed into Chile fly fishing!

Gonzalez, of Patagonia Trouters, insists that the best trout fishing

Lean Herrainz photo

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CHILE

Patagonian BaseCamp One of Patagonia’s most diverse fly fishing programs for wild trout is Patagonian BaseCamp, on the banks of the remote Rio Palena, owned and operated by Marcel Sijnesael. O F T H E beauties of Marcel’s location is the dearth of anglers on many of the waters – on most you will see few or no other fishermen during your stay. In addition, using state-of-the-art inflatable catarafts and outboard powered jetboats, he is able to organize two and three day overnight float trips into wilderness rivers, spending the nights at either small riverside accommodations, or camping out in comfortable domo tents under the Southern Cross. These are truly a highlight of most guests’ trips, and an opportunity to cast over virgin fish in spectacularly scenic surroundings. As well, the lodge has access to small high mountain lakes, full of heavy-shouldered trout, accessed via short walks, or for the adventurous, mountain bikes. Rounding out the menu are a variety of smaller float streams and larger jet boat rivers. It would take a month of solid fishing before you’d repeat a piece of water fishing at Patagonian BaseCamp. Marcel has spared no expense acquiring the finest guide staff in Chile; along with his impressive fleet of cata-rafts, rafts, jet boats and drift boat, guests get the benefit of a familiar guide experience, located in an exciting, untouched locale. Anglers will learn techniques from these guides that will serve them in trout rivers anywhere in the world, and never experience a communication challenge with their guide!

ONE

Patagonian BaseCamp Lodge is located in the midst of a pristine evergreen forest on the banks of the Rio Palena and within easy striking distance of the best regional waters in the area. It is a small occupancy lodge, with a serious and incredibly diverse fishing package that has made it popular and well-known in the fly fishing world. Handling up to 12 guests in private accommodations, the two-story facility is warm and inviting, with spacious, well-appointed rooms overlooking the river. The lodge features just about every imaginable comfort, including a sauna, hot tub, private rooms with full baths, unlimited hot-water showers, therapeutic massages, and daily laundry service. The chefs create amazing and sumptuous meals each and every morning and night, the latter capped by desserts you won’t soon forget! The best of Argentine and Chilean wines are served with lunch and/or dinner and the open bar is always fully stocked. There are also longer stay options with out-camps and overnight floats.

Patagonian BaseCamp photo

Brian Hodges photo

patagonian basecamp s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$8,995 13,995 s 11 Night / 10 Day package 14,995 s Late December through early April s 10 Night / 9 Day package

Dan Ochoa photo

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phone

800-669-3474

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CHILE

El Saltamontes 2.0 A new chapter in the storied El Saltamontes legacy AFTER 34 YEARS of operating one of the alltime classic fly fishing lodges in Chile, Patagonia, Jose Gorroño and family have turned over the reins to Dane and Chiara Emerson, owners of Espiritu Santo Bay (ESB) Lodge, the single most sought after flats fishing lodge in the world. The connection between the two families started in 2019 when Dane and Chiara hosted a week at El Saltamontes with friends, and has now blossomed into a family partnership. El Saltamontes is a beautifully-appointed lodge, with great guides, incredible food, and superb service. Guests enjoy long days fishing with some of the best teaching guides in the country, return to a meal that is the rival of the finest restaurants, and then returning to their room to relax in comfort every evening after dinner and drinks. You’ll leave El Saltamontes relaxed, refreshed and a better angler at the end of the week. The lodge is located on a 5,000-acre private ranch in the foothills of the Andes. There are over 8 miles of private water that can only be accessed by guests of the lodge. The owner has also secured access to miles of the upper Ñireguao River, meaning guests get to fish water loaded with trout, fish that see few anglers and love dry flies!

One of the truly exciting aspects of this transition is Dane’s commitment to explore and integrate new water into the El Saltamontes fishing program. Dane and his guide staff are constantly on the move, scouting out the many possible rivers, spring creeks and lagunas that permeate the region, and adding new water as they prove its productivity. Nestled amongst the cabins and woods, an open air, wood-fired hot tub steams invitingly in the evenings as anglers return following a hard day on the river. Cocktails and nibbles appear spa-side to those guests who choose to soak away the day’s exertions. Just beyond the main lodge is the “Quincho”, a glass-fronted building with a huge stone fireplace. A traditional structure on all ranches, the Quincho allows outdoor dining in sheltered comfort. Every week guests enjoy a typical Patagonian style barbecue or “Asado,” with a whole lamb and choice, roasted beef. Neighbors arrive on horseback to enliven the atmosphere with local live music and it is always a memorable night. el saltamontes 2.0 s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$7,500

s Late December through late March

Lean Herrainz photos

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email:

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Estancia de los Rios photo

CHILE

Estancia de los Rios L O C A T E D I N the remote Cisnes (Swan) Valley of Chilean Patagonia. The lodge sits within a massive private ranch, encompassing 445,000 acres (695 square miles) of rugged, remote landscape bordered by the Andes to the west, high desert to the east, and the border of Argentina. Behind locked gates are more than 60 miles of private rivers, spring creeks, lakes, and lagoons offering world-class dry fly fishing for brown trout. A week here is like stepping back in time, both culturally and fishing-wise. You’ll return home knowing you’ve experienced authentic Patagonia on a private working ranch. Anglers are accommodated in a spacious and lovely log-constructed lodge, featuring six double occupancy rooms, each with its own private bathroom. The lodge is a mere 300 yards from the home river, and the views of the distant mountains from the front veranda are spectacular. This spot is always popular for sharing an adult beverage with friends and reliving the day’s trout angling adventures. Your fly fishing trip will be custom-tailored to your wants and needs and you will go home with wonderful memories, and as a new member of the Dufflocq family.

estancia de los rios s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$7,700

s Early November through early April

Michael Caranci photo

Trouters Patagonia A R E many wonderful reasons to choose Trouters Patagonia as your outfitter in the region. The owner/operator and head guide – Nico Gonzalez – has spent his entire life in the area, growing up in a wonderland of fishing opportunities which, until about 30 years ago, was nearly devoid of anglers. One of the beauties of Trouter’s fishing program is the variety. On any given day you can walk and wade a small creek, casting traditional dries and nymphs to fast pockets and small pools; choose to float down a larger river, tossing large foam dries or streamers to the banks; or prospect a remote meadow stream, drifting grasshopper patterns down miles of grassy, undercut banks. La Reserva Lodge has five spacious guestrooms, each tastefully decorated and comfortable. Each of these rooms offers plenty of usable space to unpack and organize your kit, and feature two twin beds and a full bath. All linens are supplied in the guest rooms, along with bar soap and shampoo. Single occupancy options, though very limited, are sometimes available at additional cost. Trouters is a small operation, accommodating a maximum of 8 guests at a time.

THERE

trouters patagonia s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$5,710

s Early November through late April

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phone

800-669-3474

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Argentina Argentina is a land rich in culture, history, and adventure; strongly inﬂuenced by its mostly resettled European populous and has been a popular destination for sports since the turn of the 20th century P A T A G O N I A I S an imaginary band covering southern Chile and Argentina, roughly 400,000 square miles in size, with the Andes Mountains forming the border between the two countries. The trout ﬁshing in Argentina takes place in the south, roughly from the Neuquén River (39°S) through Tierra del Fuego (55°S). And extending east of the Andes, Patagonia includes the provinces of Neuquén, Río Negro, Chubut, Santa Cruz, and Tierra del Fuego, as well as the southern tips of the provinces of Buenos Aires, Mendoza and La Pampa. Argentina is the second largest country in South America (eighth largest country in the world by land area) and is divided into 23 federal provinces. Its continental area is a whopping 1,068,302 sq mi and stretches between the Andes mountain range in the west and the

southern Atlantic Ocean in the east and south. Argentina borders Paraguay and Bolivia to the north, Brazil and Uruguay to the northeast, and Chile to the west and south. For the most part trout fishing in Argentina Patagonia takes place in 5 distinct provinces Neuquén, Río Negro, Chubut, Santa Cruz, and Tierra del Fuego. Collectively, The Fly Shop’s travel staff has been fishing in Chile and Argentina for more than seventy years. We know the ropes, and can hook you up with the best Patagonia fishing. We led the charge into the great river valleys of southernmost Chile in the late 70’s and helped establish what are currently the most famous outfitters and lodges in that part of the world. Then, more than a decade ago The Fly Shop® was instrumental in developing what are now the finest lodges on Tierra del Fuego’s incomparable Rio Grande.

Isais Miciu photo

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Estancia Laguna Verde photo

ARGENTINA

Estancia Laguna Verde S T R O B E L L A K E and Estancia Laguna Verde give anglers access to the largest rainbow trout in the world. Anglers have a legitimate shot at hooking a rainbow in the 20-pound class each and every day, with an average rainbow tipping the scales at an honest 6 pounds. This is the place to set your own record and make your fly fishing dreams come true! Estancia Laguna Verde offers a very diverse fishery in addition to the most shoreline access on Strobel Lake. Anglers can mix it up and not only fish three quarters of the shoreline of Strobel Lake, but 8 miles of the Barrancoso River and half a dozen other troutfilled lakes on this private estancia, as well. The lodge stands in stark contrast to its desolate surroundings. The facility has twelve single bedrooms for 12 guests all with en-suite bathrooms. Beds are comfortable and with appropriate linens, and all rooms have windows, dressers in which to store clothes, and efficient wall heaters. Bathrooms are roomy, with showers, bidets, vanities, towels, and plenty of hot water. Lodging is very comfortable with world-class cuisine, a varied selection of fine Argentine wines, and attention to detail by the lodge staff.

estancia laguna verde s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$7,950

s November through early April

Lago Strobel Lodge photo

Lago Strobel Lodge S T R O B E L L O D G E is the brand new sister lodge to Estancia Laguna Verde. Located on the remote northern shore of Strobel Lake within a massive 40,000acre private ranch, it offers over 15 miles of shoreline and a half dozen protected bays. This small, intimate lodge accommodates a maximum of 8 anglers in shared rooms and is the choice of dedicated trout anglers looking for value and trophy rainbows Lago Strobel Lodge is an incredible value, while still maintaining the high standards and attention to detail the Alba family has delivered at their Estancia Laguna Verde property for nearly two decades. The Alba’s passion is fly fishing, but a close second is wine! Both at Lago Strobel Lodge and Estancia Laguna Verde their cellars are stocked with hundreds of bottles of wine personally selected as well as a large assortment of local Patagonian and Argentine cheeses, aged on site. The spacious and scenic main room contains a full bar, stocked fly tying desk, satellite TV, and beautiful panoramic views of Strobel Lake.

LAGO

lago strobel lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$5,950

s November through early April email:

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ARGENTINA

Isais Miciu photo

Patagonia River Guides These fellas from Montana have made quite a name for themselves in Patagonia! F O R M E R M O N T A N A outfitters have built a terrific Patagonia reputation by applying Yankee fly fishing know-how and a nose-to-the-grindstone work ethic to the off-the-beaten-path rivers and streams of the distant, fish-rich Esquel region of Argentina. Over the past decades, they’ve corralled the finest local talent, applied some polish, and developed what is one of the top guide services and lodges in all of Argentine Patagonia. From their flagship lodge near the Welsh community of Trevelin, the Patagonia River Guides team is within easy striking distance of Los Alerces National Park and every one of the great fisheries in the Esquel region. Their diverse angling menu includes a variety of spectacular public rivers and streams as well as exclusive access to several private properties. They specialize in guiding on small, out-of-the-way and hard-toget places and are the recognized experts on the fish-rich Rio Grande below Lago Menendez, the Rio Corcovado, and other private properties. Their daily angling options range from float trips on the

THESE

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spectacular Rio Rivadavia, wading the streams of the remote Chubut pampa, and backcountry hikes to small streams in Los Alerces National Park. Patagonia River Guides also offers a variety of superb trout fishing adventures in the San Martin, Bariloche, and Rio Pico regions of Argentine Patagonia. These are exceptional angling and accommodation packages quite different from the Trevelin Lodge experience. Multi-region 5 to 14 night itineraries incorporating the best of Argentine Patagonia can be custom-tailored to include a combination of various estancia stays, overnight and multi-night float trips and a long list of options that can be tailored to any anglers schedule and interests. Working with you, the estancias’ availability, and the Patagonia River Guide schedule we’ll custom tailor a package that fits your calendar, wallet, interests, and skill level. You’ll save time and there’s no less expensive or better way to plan your Patagonia fly fishing holiday.

email:

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PRG Trevelin W I T H PRG Trevelin are strictly one week packages and have a spectacular choice of rivers and streams to choose from. They specialize in guiding on small, out-of-the-way ﬁsheries and have exclusive access to a number of creeks. There’s more than enough on their angling menu to keep you busy for the entire Patagonia summer. The lodge is near the southern margin of Los Alerces National Park and has unbeatable access to both Los Alerces, and the Esquel area’s creeks and rivers. The lodge features 12 spacious and beautiful private rooms, each with ensuite bathrooms. The Esquel region resembles ﬁshing in the American West in many ways. Rivers in this area orig-

TRIPS

inate in the Andes Mountains or the Patagonia Steppe. The rivers in this area are as varied as the countryside and there are many creeks, lakes, and rivers, all of which contain excellent numbers of trout. About half the rivers Trevelin ﬁshes are ﬂoated, and the rest waded. prg trevelin s 7 Night / 6 Day package

Isais Miciu photo

$9,900

s November through May

PRG North D E P E N D I N G O N the estancia chosen, between ten

and fourteen guests can normally enjoy all the comforts of PRG North’s exclusive first class fishing lodges. They are all a short drive to some of the best rivers in the region, and in some cases the lodge will actually have private access to a stream right on their estancia. The lodges feature spacious and comfortable rooms, each with en-suite bathrooms. Many also include a cocktail lounge and a great room, allowing guests to gather after fishing and share stories with friends while enjoying some pre-dinner libations. PRG North has a straightforward “blue-collar” approach to its fishing program. Each guide has all of the finest fly fishing equipment necessary to make your experience ideal including: rafts, boats, waders, wading boots, rods, reels, flies, lines, leaders, and even

tippet. Two anglers fish together with a professional guide (and often an assistant guide) to give every angler the finest experience possible. You will typically do a lot of float fishing at Patagonia River Guides North, though there are lodges located on prime wade fishing streams, or with a combination of both. Your options depend on your desires and what is fishing best. They try to fish dries at all times when the conditions are right and the fish are feeding, though it is sometimes necessary to go under the surface. prg north s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$6,650-$9,100

s Shorter stay options are available s November through May

PRG Tres Valles T O E I G H T guests per week can enjoy all the comforts of Tres Valles exclusive, first-class fishing lodge. The lodge is in the remote Rio Pico Valley – considered the southern frontier of Argentine Patagonian mountain trout fishing. The lodge features four spacious and beautiful rooms, each with ensuite bathrooms, and a spectacular view overlooking a nearby mountain range and a trophy trout lake that is just a stone’s throw away. The Rio Pico area is located about three hours south of Esquel and offers anglers the chance to explore a region that hasn’t changed much during the last two centuries. This is an area that gives you the chance to catch large fish and enjoy Patagonia without any undue influence from modern technology or tourism. The fishing is a combination of smaller spring creeks and rivers – all with good numbers and size of fish – and a series of higher-elevation lakes that can

phone

800-669-3474

produce huge browns and rainbows, sometimes even on large dry ﬂies. Trout were planted in Patagonia around the turn of the 20th-century and have ﬂourished in almost all lakes and streams. The primary species of trout are brown trout, rainbow trout and brook trout. Matt Jones photo

prg tres valles s 7 Night / 6 Day package $9,400 s November through May

Patagonia River Guides photos

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ARGENTINA

Estancia Chochoy Mallín Spectacular array of diverse, private water trout ﬁsheries! N E S T L E D I N the heart of the Cordillera del Viento

Estancia Chochoy Mallín photos

in Northern Patagonia (Neuquén Province), Estancia Chochoy Mallín spans 15,000 hectares of untouched rivers and streams. The estancia is a traditional Patagonian ranch with more than 100 years of history, now transformed into a fly fishing operation. Crossed by three crystal-clear rivers – the Reñi Leuvú, Trocomán, and Ñireco – plus access to other spring creeks and nearby waters, this is a destination defined by variety, privacy, and authentic Argentine hospitality. Owned by the Creide family, a fourth-generation Neuquen clan, the lodge is now running under the umbrella of Dream Waters Angling, one of the top outfitters in Argentina which started back in 2008 at Estancia Laguna Verde, Jurassic Lake, in southern Patagonia. Their mission has always been simple; to offer authentic, world-class fly fishing adventures in Argentina’s most iconic and remote waters – crafted and hosted with heart, professionalism, and a deep respect for nature.

The lodge itself is stunning, featuring beautiful décor, top-of-the-line furniture and materials, spacious rooms with ensuite bathrooms, central heating, and a fantastic bar that naturally becomes the gathering place after a day on the water. The amazing cuisine is built around grass-fed beef, lamb and goat from the estancia (it is a working cattle ranch), plus fresh vegetables from the garden. The chef is highly accomplished in the kitchen and very well known in Argentina. This is a fantastic culinary experience At Chochoy Mallín you will find mostly rainbows and browns, in a spectacular array of diverse, private water trout fisheries. Guests have a daily choice of waters, from stalking tiny spring creeks, to floating larger rivers, and everything in between. Whatever kind of fishing you like, they can provide, and much of it is located on huge ranches where they have arranged private leases. You will have lots of water all to yourself each day. chochoy mallín s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$6,200

s December through early April s Great Value

Bruner photo

Gerardo photo email:

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ARGENTINA

Las Pampas Lodge It’s a remarkable region nestled east of the Andes’ highest peaks I N the Chubut Province of Central Patagonia, Las Pampas Lodge is in the “heart” of the Rio Pico area of Argentina. The lodge is located beyond the well-traveled roads and just outside the tiny border town of Aldea Las Pampas. It’s surrounded by countless spring creeks, rivers, streams, and lakes, much of which is located on private estancias that see little or no pressure from other anglers. The Rio Pico watershed is home to nearly a dozen spring creeks, all of which ultimately feed into the Pico. Varying greatly in size, length, depth, and current speed, each creek presents its own unique set of challenges. For lovers of small, and at times technical waters, these often-overlooked gems have a great deal to offer. Most of these intimate spring creeks hold surprising numbers of good-sized rainbows and browns that are all too willing to rise to a well-presented dry fly. The owner, guides and staff at Las Pampas are hardcore anglers that live and breathe fly fishing. They are talented and enthusiastic professionals that will go the extra mile to make a guest happy. They are not clock watchers, so expect a full day on the water and then some. They are generous with their knowledge of their local fisheries, culture and lives. And they love what they do! After a week spent at Las Pampas, you’ll

L O C AT E D

not only leave a better angler, but you will make friends for life. It’s simply – The Las Pampas way. Las Pampas Lodge is a beautiful European-style log and stone structure that features a main common area with a guest lounge, dining room, and bar that is ﬂanked by four spacious double occupancy guest rooms, all with a private bath. Each guest room opens onto a cobblestone veranda overlooking the surrounding Andes mountainous landscape. The inviting main room has a central ﬁreplace surrounded by a semicircle of plush, built-in lounge chairs where guests can gather each evening for cocktails and share their daily adventures. The lodge has every amenity you’d expect from a classic trout lodge without being over-the-top.

Denver Br yan photo

las pampas s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$7,950

s November through April Por ter photo

Denver Br yan photo

Las Pampas Lodge photo

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phone

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ARGENTINA

Patagonia Outfitters Founded in 1978 by local Argentine ﬂy ﬁshing legend, Jorge Trucco.

O V E R T H E P A S T 40+ years, Jorge and the Patagonia Outfitters team not only discovered many of the now-famous fisheries in northern Patagonia, they have continued to develop and perfect the trout fishing experience in Argentina. Patagonia Outfitters is a full-service outfitter, offering custom, à la carte fly fishing packages throughout the many fish-filled rivers, streams, and lakes within striking distance of both San Martin de los Andes, Bariloche or Neuquén. They work with a handful of the finest lodges and private estancias and guides in the region, and work closely with every guest to custom-tailor a unique Patagonia holiday, whether it’s 4 days or 2 weeks, whether you are a hard-core angler or if you are traveling with your family and want to combine exciting trout fishing with great non-fishing activities, Patagonia Outfitters and The Fly Shop® can custom tailor a unique and diverse holiday for you.

Estancia Pilolil

Collon Cura Lodge

sits on a 23,000-acre private estancia, perfectly situated in the heart of this fish-filled region, conveniently located a short drive from the airport at San Martin de Los Andes. The lodge is perched on the west bank of the scenic Aluminé River, with 10 miles of the most productive stretches of this famous river, and dozens of other excellent fisheries within easy striking distance. The Aluminé River is famous for its incredible hatches and dry fly fishing. Nymph and streamer fishing can produce very large rainbow and brown trout. There are daily options for both float fishing or wading. The lodge accommodates up to 10 guests in deluxe comfort, including incredible cuisine and fine Argentine wines. Non-angling guests will enjoy daily options, or simply relaxing with a good book.

C E N T R A L L Y L O C A T E D on the banks of the Collon Cura River, on

E S TA N C I A

From floating large and productive tailwaters, to wading small intimate spring creeks; sight-casting for rising rainbows with dry flies, or chucking streamers for trophy trout; enjoying a local Malbec at a high-end estancia lodge, or camping out under the Southern Cross; or a combination of all this and more…it is all possible when exploring Argentina with Patagonia Outfitters! The idea behind the à la carte fishing itineraries is to combine two, three or four estancias to create a varied fly fishing holiday. For example, for a one week trip you can arrange four nights lodging at Estancia Pilolil and then transfer to Collon Cura Lodge and fish another three days. Or four nights at Estancia San Huberto and three nights at Tres Rios. Give us a call and we will help you custom tailor a trip that fits your wants and needs.

PILOLIL

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a 70,000 acre estancia owned by the Turner family. The estancia provides exclusive access to the best spots for floating this prolific river, flowing through a landscape of huge open vistas and expansive panoramas reminiscent of the American West. Willow-lined banks, sand cliffs and rolling hills shape the Collon Cura River’s unique and attractive landscape, and create ideal conditions for incredible populations of large rainbows, browns, and Patagonian perch. This vibrant river ecosystem features consistent hatches and constant fishing action using dry flies, nymphs, or streamers, both drifting and wading. The quaint, cozy lodge accommodates up to eight guests in four double rooms, each with its own private, en suite bathroom.

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Tipiliuke Lodge TIPILIUKE

L O D G E is conveniently located a mere 15 minutes

from the town of San Martin de los Andes, on the 50,000-acre Estancia Cerro de los Pinos. The Larminat family founded the estancia in 1909, and continue to operate the historic working cattle ranch today. Fishing from Tipiliuke incorporates more than 17 miles of incredible trout streams, including private access to 9 miles of the famous Chimehuin River and 4 miles of the Quilquihue River. The Chimehuin was the first “famous” river in Patagonia, written about by Joe Brooks in the 1950s/60s. Clear waters and consistent hatches make for reliable dry fly fishing throughout the season. Rainbow and brown trout here average 14-20 inches.

Val Atkinson photo

San Huberto Lodge E S T A N C I A S A N H U B E R T O is owned by the Olsen family, and

Thomas Erich Tscherne photo

Estancia Arroyo Verde V E R D E is one of the most unique experiences in all of Patagonia. It is located near the town of Bariloche, where the Trafúl River runs through a secluded valley of incredible wind and water-sculpted rock formations, and breathtaking views of crystal clear Lake Trafúl with the backdrop of the white-capped Andes. The draw of Arroyo Verde is their access to the Rio Trafúl, one of the finest and most technical trout streams in Patagonia. The only way to fish the best beats of the Trafúl River is to stay at Arroyo Verde, which contains just over ten miles of river. Trophy fish over ten pounds are landed on the Trafúl, but these fish can also be very difficult, handing out just as many “skunks” as trophies. If you are looking for a very private and elegant experience, Arroyo Verde would be the perfect choice for you.

E S TA N C I A

ARROYO

operated as a 25,000-acre farm-to-table sporting experience. Their gardens are extensive, and their free-range beef and lamb are absolutely incredible. Guests here often return just for the food! Of course, the fishing from San Huberto is also world-class, with 25 miles of private access on the best stretches of the Malleo River. Jorge Trucco helped get catch-and-release legislation on the Malleo in 1985; with decades of protection the river has some of the highest trout populations in Patagonia. The Malleo is mostly spring-fed, with crystal clear waters perfect for sight fishing, reliable hatches, and dry fly opportunities. It is the perfect-sized river for walk and wade fishing, a great location for novice, intermediate, and advanced anglers.

Jasmine Rossi photo

Tres Rios Lodge SET

Thomas Erich Tscherne photo

Estancia Quemquemtreu T H I S E X P E R I E N C E is a step back in time to 100 years ago, the true

spirit of rural Patagonia and the ranching life. It’s not to be missed... Quemquemtreu provides excellent access to the lower Collón Cura River, as well as private access to intimate Quemquemtreu Creek. While fishing here, guests have a diverse menu of fly fishing opportunities: floating or wading the Collón Cura (widely renowned as one of the most productive rivers in all of Patagonia); wade-fishing on Quemquemtreu Creek; casting dry flies to rising trout; nymphing deeper runs that are loaded with trout; and casting streamers for aggressive, trophy-sized rainbow and brown trout.

A scenic bluff, Tres Rios Lodge offers spectacular

panoramic views of both the Chimehuin and Collon Cura Rivers, which converge at the base just below the lodge. It is also ecologically sustainable, generating its own electricity. Tres Rios boasts private access to 10 miles of what most agree to be the best, most productive waters of the Chimehuin. These sections can be ﬂoated, while there is also plenty of great wadeﬁshing that is only available to guests of Tres Rios Lodge. In addition, the lodge enables access to an additional 20 miles of the Collon Cura River, and several lagunas that hold some seriously large trout. The lodge is small, accommodating up to eight guests in double occupancy rooms. The rate includes reception at Patagonia Outfitter’s Fly Fishing Center, all fly fishing gear, including rods, reels, waders, boots and flies, deluxe double occupancy accommodations, fly fishing license, and more... s $850 - $1,350 per person, per night s November through April

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Alaska

Our selection of Alaska lodges and camps will put you right in the middle of the action! T H E F L Y S H O P ® travel team has been traveling to

and fishing Alaska for better than 48 years. Most of our staff have worked as guides in Alaska, and a couple have even owned and operated their own operations in “The Last Frontier.” We have assembled a terrific portfolio of lodges, camps and float trips, with something for everyone. They represent a wonderful cross-section of angling interests and a broad range of experiences and price options. Alaska is larger than Texas, Montana, and California combined. The state sold roughly 530,000 licenses in 2023, 345,925 of those being non resisdent. Fishing there is legendary and the understandable focal point for every serious trout and salmon fisherman at some time in his or her life. But, if there’s a road to any river in that state, it’ll be as crowded as any spot in the lower 48. The solution? Add a plane to the mix and Alaska is suddenly full of opportunities. Alaska is full of fly-in lodges that cater specifically to anglers.

Alaska is currently one of the hottest places on the angling map for fly fishing travelers, as it is relatively effortless to access, boasts a treasure trove of true wilderness, and has world-class angling. Availability is at a premium, so plan your trip early. Every lodge, river camp, and float trip will tell you they’re the best, but only a few are correct and will meet your desired experience. We’ve vetted these places for years and know exactly who is telling the truth. Let us put you into one of the best!

Brian O’Keefe photo

Arian Stevens photo

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800-669-3474

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ALASKA

Lava Creek Lodge This remote operation on the Aleutian Peninsula offers wall-to-wall, dime-bright king and silver salmon ﬁshing

Travis Or tiz photo

L A V A C R E E K L O D G E is a small outpost lodge on the Aleutian Peninsula of Alaska, south/southwest of Bristol Bay, Alaska. It is custom-tailored for the serious salmon angler who values remote and nearly untouched water, swing fishing for dime-bright kings and chums, and surface and streamer action for big, hyper-aggressive silver salmon. With the ultra-low occupancy, anglers get the pick of the litter of the best pools on the home river, as well as other rivers accessed by float plane. This is a classic jet boat and fly-out lodge. The boats are used for access only, and allow anglers to reach prime wading runs filled with fish. Weather permitting, some lodge guests will have the option to fly-out to one of the other nearby rivers that are also stacked with fish. Since you will be fishing water influenced by tidal pushes daily, the boats can follow the fish as they shoulder upriver, or find the pools where they are stacked up at any given time. With two

Arian Stevens photos

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anglers per boat and guide, and small occupancy in camp at any one time, there is always plenty of fresh, fish-filled water to choose from. Lava Creek Lodge accommodates only eight anglers a week in comfortable, double occupancy, wood-constructed cabins. Each cabin is complete with a full bathroom, shower, flush toilets, sink, vanity, on-demand hot water, heater, along with two beds with full linens, chairs, table and plenty of hooks to hang up your gear. The lodge complex features 24-hour electricity and WiFi via Starlink, and all of the buildings are heated. The entire lodge complex is not fancy, but it is comfortable, dry, warm and offers spectacular views of the coastal range and ancient Aniakchak Volcano rising 4,400 feet from sea level. lava creek lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$10,400

s Mid June through late September

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ALASKA

Dominic Bruno photo

Fly-Out Lodges Having a float plane to get to the remote rivers is the ultimate Alaska experience!

P L A N N I N G a visit to a fly-out lodge in Alaska have more to look forward to than just a memorable fishing vacation. Each morning of the week, the float plane lift-off exposes the full glory of Alaska, transporting anglers into a magical aerial world. The elevation during the flight to the fishing grounds is kept intentionally low to allow passengers a chance to see more of wild Alaska than is imaginable. These scenic flights to distant rivers often pass over moose, bear, caribou and wolves. Anticipation builds along the way as they pass over land and scenery leaving everyone breathless, until they drop into water full of char, salmon and wild rainbows. Bush planes offer fishermen access to rivers and streams beyond the horizon and often out of reach of boats. These aerial angling taxis change the dynamics of a fishing trip dramatically and translate into

ANGLERS

more fishing opportunities and diversity. Of course, the more distant the final destination is from civilization and the more time spent in the air during the week, the higher the price tag is going to be. The talented, expert bush pilots based at fly-out lodges monitor hundreds of miles of rivers, flying to the best each morning. They’ll sometimes guide clients to more than one river in a single day, and are instructed to bring guests back at the end of every day tired of catching fish. The top targets change with the calendar as a summer parade of salmon and trout peak in each of the different drainages, and it’s great to have the ability to be able to take advantage of the best of the nearby opportunities with winged transportation. Even flying into a remote camp or lodge where anglers use jet boats will improve an Alaska fishing trip immensely. Nathan Morris photo

Royal Wolf Lodge A R G UA B LY,

the finest trophy trout fishing lodge in Bristol Bay. They have very little interest in fishing for salmon - their program is built completely around the huge rainbows that frequent the streams surrounding this wilderness oasis. If you were to design the perfect trophy trout lodge, it’d be Royal Wolf Lodge. Located in the center of Katmai National Park, the float plane flights to most of their targeted streams are only 10-20 minutes in length. They are in the epicenter of Alaska’s revered monster trout rivers. The lodge operates one of Alaska’s finest fleets of aircraft designed specifically to give clients access to the best fishing rivers, safely and comfortably. This includes a DeHavilland Beaver on floats, the

workhorse of the bush that can carry larger loads of guests safely; and the lodge’s trademark, STOL-equipped and nimble Helio-Courier float planes capable of astonishingly short take offs and the ability to land in small lakes adjacent to the best fishing. The lodge itself and separate guest cabins are beautifully well-appointed, especially considering the wilderness setting. You will spend evenings relaxing in complete comfort, with amazing views from your cabin windows. This will allow you to relax and check out for a week, without giving up the comforts of home.

Nathan Morris photo

royal lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$14,250

s June through early October

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A L A S K A’ S T O P F LY- O U T L O D G E S

Iliamna River Lodge N E S T L E D A M O N G pines overlooking

Iliamna River Lodge photo

the Iliamna River where the lodge’s float planes land and take off, the lodge affords guests easy access to fabled local waters to fish for trout, salmon, and Arctic char, as well as nearby saltwater species. There are numerous braids and back channels that offer different methods of fishing on the Iliamna River. The river itself has a turquoise color that is truly unique to the region. The neon red sockeye salmon glow against the blue in a color combination that can only be

seen here. Depending on your choice of angling packages, fly-outs to other regional fisheries for trout and salmon will add even more variety to your fishing experience. Guests are accommodated in newly built and spacious heated cabins with walk-in showers, full bathrooms and a front porch that offers fantastic views of nearby peaks and the Iliamna River. iliamna river lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package s

$11,800

June through September

Rainbow River Lodge

Mike Mercer photo

Iliamna River Lodge photo

RAINBOW RIVER L O D G E is located 210 miles southwest of Anchorage on privately held land in the heart of Alaska’s phenomenal Bristol Bay and Lake Iliamna “Trophy Alaska Rainbow Trout” watershed, and conveniently adjacent to the Katmai Wilderness. This fly fishing lodge offers magnificent views of the Alaska wilderness and the beautiful Copper River, arguably one of the prettiest trout rivers in Alaska. The fishing program takes full advantage of its central location and the use of float planes to access dozens of rivers, streams and lakes within a short flight. Of course, having one of Alaska’s top rated trout streams – the Copper

River – just a short boat drive away makes for an even stronger and more diverse ﬁshing program. The guest cabins are built of beautiful natural cedar both inside and out. Each cabin has an Indian slate entry, maple hardwood ﬂoors, state of the art bathroom with slate vanity, and corner glass shower. They feature handmade aspen log furniture, custombuilt wall sconces & chandelier, and pillow-top mattresses with down comforters. No expense has been spared in creating a great atmosphere and comfort level that you deserve. rainbow river lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package s June through September

Iliamna River Lodge photo

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$11,800

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Royal Coachman Lodge O F A L L T H E attributes that make Royal Coachman

Lodge attractive, none are so obvious as their location, and the quality of their staff. The lodge itself is located on the banks of a wilderness river in the remote Togiak/Tikchik region of Alaska, an area where lodges are few and far between, and most of the fisheries lightly hit. Their staff is top-notch, with customer service obviously paramount; from the guides, to the camp staff, it permeates the entire operation. Custom-tailoring each day’s fishing is one of the major advantages to RCL’s small and personal approach to sportfishing. The Royal Coachman Lodge in Alaska has been serving guests since 1970. Their philosophy and attention to detail is their trademark! The lodge uses DeHavilland Beavers to fly their guests to various rivers daily. These planes are powerful, dependable, and comfortable. One of the

most amazing parts of this trip is the country you ﬂy over enroute to different streams each day. Royal Coachman Lodge sits on the banks of the Nuyakuk River overlooking a gorgeous home pool, and caters to a maximum of 10-12 anglers per week. Complete with four ﬁnely-furnished guest cottages, each with living rooms, private baths, and one or two bedrooms. They also have two well-appointed bedrooms in the main lodge. Each cabin or room has modern bath facilities, independent heat, excellent beds, and all the creature comforts of home, along with spectacular views of the river, the rapids, and the snow-capped peaks.

Royal Coachman Lodge photos

royal coachman lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$14,500

s Early June through September

Rapids Camp Lodge E A S Y - T O - R E A C H , full service fly-out lodge with superb home water and one of the most diverse and exciting fishing programs in Alaska. The lodge is located on the Naknek River, near King Salmon, just a 60-minute flight from Anchorage. They offer unparalleled fly fishing in the heart of the famed Bristol Bay watershed. Seasoned hardcore fly anglers appreciate the wide range of water the lodge frequents. This includes staples like the Moraine, Battle Creek, Contact Creek, Headwaters Creek and American Creek. During the early and late season the lodge concentrates on fly fishing for large rainbows in the “rapids” of the Naknek River near the lodge. Guests design their own day trips – there isn’t any set destination. The Rapids Camp team will make

their recommendations based on your goals and desires, and you make the decision where you want to go the next day. The main lodge can accommodate a total of 10 guests in spacious, single occupancy rooms all with private baths. The detached private home has also been added to the available accommodations at the lodge, two bedrooms and a living room. Also includes a hot tub, sauna, workout facility, bar, darts, shuﬄeboard, internet, and satellite tv. rapids camp lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

Abe Blair photo

$12,000

s June through September

Bear Trail Lodge L O C A T E D A T the epicenter of some of the best trout,

salmon and char fisheries in Alaska. For those who are looking for a superb fly-out experience targeting a mixed bag of species, Bear Trail should be at or near the top of the list! Accommodations are more than comfortable, the cuisine is delectable, and the staff and guides love to give guests a world-class vacation! With a fleet of planes at their disposal, anglers are able to access some of the finest fly-out fly fishing the state of Alaska has to offer. Fishing venues vary widely

from days spent fishing from jet-powered aluminum boats, raft trips, and remote walk-and-wade. Accommodated in comfortable guest cabins, anglers take amazing meals in the main lodge. This is a great spot for small groups of anglers or families looking for an incredibly flexible and diverse fishery.

Fly Out Media photo

Heidi Wild photo

bear trail lodge s 7 Night / 7 Day package

$13,975

s Late June through early October

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Gearing Up for

Alaska

There are few angling destinations that require as much essential gear as Alaska, and having the proper kit can make all the difference in the world. T H E T R A V E L T E A M here at The Fly Shop® has spent a collective lifetime fishing and working in Alaska. There is no fluff in our

suggestions on what to pack. If you're going to Alaska, email us at travel@theflyshop.com and we will make sure you are dialed in.

Duffel Bag You should never need to travel with a bag that weighs over 50 pounds, the weight restriction imposed by airlines. If you are overweight, we can almost guarantee you have packed stuff that you will never see or use during the trip. Soft-sided roller duffel bags are the way to go as they can be jammed into the rear of

the fuselage or floats of a plane. Make sure your bag is at least weather-resistant. You never know when it is going to be sitting out on the tundra getting rained on, waiting for a weather window to fly. s Fishpond Stormshadow (Large) s Patagonia Black Hole® Wheeled Duffel 100L

A N D R E W I N Patagonia’s Swiftcurrent Jacket,

Carry-on The best carry-on for any fishing travel is a 100% waterproof daypack. It can be a zipper model for quick and easy access or a traditional roll-top - that is just personal preference. A daypack allows for free hands to handle your roller duffel, boarding passes, I.D. and a coffee. It also acts as a waterproof boat bag to store extra layers, camera, phone, fly boxes, etc. s Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Backpack s Fishpond Wind River Roll-Top Dry Backpack

Rain Jacket Alaska dishes out some of the most extreme weather in North America. It rains, sometimes torrentially, for days on end. A high-quality, 100% waterproof, breathable rain jacket may be the most important piece of equipment you bring to Alaska. Don’t skimp on your rain jacket. If your current jacket is old, sunfaded, and peeling, replace it. s Skwala RS Jacket (works great with the RS Waders) s Patagonia Swiftcurrent Jacket

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braving the most unkind elements in the Alaskan wild. He can chase kings while staying dry, warm and comfortable long after others have retired for the warmth of the lodge due to less than adequate performing rain gear. Lava Creek Lodge (page 50) – A small outpost lodge on the Aleutian Peninsula of Alaska. Customtailored for the serious salmon angler who values remote and nearly untouched water, swing fishing for dime-bright kings and chums, and surface and streamer action for big, aggressive silver salmon. Give our Travel Dept. a call today for more info and availabilty. 800-669-3474

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Wa d e r s

Gloves

A good pair of chest-high, breathable waders are essential. Weather in Alaska is constantly changing, and waders are your first defense against Mother Nature. The rule of thumb is buy the best you can afford. Yup, it’s that important! Make sure you wear a wading belt when fishing, it can save your life. Some anglers prefer the zip-front waders for easy on and off and pee breaks, while others love their standard solid waders with flipout pockets. Your choice!. s Patagonia Expedition Zippered Waders s Skwala RS Zippered Waders s Patagonia Traverse Zippered Waders

Some anglers love them and some hate them, it’s up to you. If you are fishing at Alaska Steelhead Company in October, a nice warm set of gloves can make the jet-boat ride a lot more comfortable. Fishing gloves come fingerless, full finger or flipmitt. Pick what you like, and don’t get them so tight that they cut off blood supply to your phalanges. s Skwala RS Waterproof Gloves s Simms Windstopper Flip Mitts s Simms Freestone Half Finger Glove

Wa d i n g B o o t s

I m p o r t a n t I t e m s To Remember:

Look for a wading boot with a strong toe box, good ankle support and plenty of room to wiggle your toes. You’ll be wading, walking, and hiking on your trip and want to have comfortable, sturdy boots. Remember, in Alaska you cannot wear felt-soled wading boots. A rubber-soled boot with aggressive treads is the way to go. Metal studs can be added for extra traction while wading, but make sure you stay off the $80K floats on the bush plane with those things! s Skwala Carbon Boot s Korkers Dark Horse Boot s Korkers Devil’s Canyon Boot

Soft-sided roller duffel bag Daypack (100% waterproof) Quality rain jacket Breathable waders Fleece or merino wool undergarments Puffy jacket Rubber-soled wading boots Wool or fleece beanie cap (touque) and ball cap Buff® (bring two). Good for sun, wind, and bugs Two pairs of polarized glasses (in case you lose or break a pair) Waterproof sunscreen SPF 30+ (UVA) (UVB) & lip balm Medicated powder (avoid chafing) Hand lotion or bag-balm DEET insect repellent Pliers, hook sharpener, nippers, multi-tool & pocket knife Rods and reels New fly line (life is too short to have to use an old fly line) Flies (buy a bunch from us, you can return what you don’t use for credit) Headlamp (LED) Water bottle and electrolyte mix – Gatorade, EmergenC or Liquid IV

Layering System The weather in Alaska is erratic – one day 80°F and sunny, and the next day rainy, windy and in the low 50’s. A layering system will allow you to adjust to ever-changing conditions and is organized in 4 main layers: 1) Base Layer, Thin “Long-Johns” 2) Insulation Layer, Medium Thinner fleece layers for milder temps 3) Insulation Layer, Heavy Puffy jackets, heavy fleece for cold temps 4) Waterproof Layer Rain jacket & waders Add or remove these layers in different combinations throughout the day to maintain consistent body temperatures, preventing either freezing or sweating. And remember, Alaska is no place for cotton. It can literally kill you. All layering garments should be made of synthetics or wool, both of which maintain heat when wet. s Patagonia Midweight Capilene (top and bottom) s Skwala Thermo 350 (top and bottom) s Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody

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ALASKA

River Lodges We respresent the finest riverside lodges in our 49th state! W H A T F E W isolated streamside lodges remain are a reminder of the golden age of frontier fly fishing, where everything, including anglers must either be brought in by float plane or barge. These spots usually don’t offer daily fly-outs, instead rely on a quality local fishery. Their on-the-water locations often allow more fishing time each day, and require less concern about weather for flight conditions. These outfitters cater to more adventuresome, selfreliant anglers.

Accessed only by bush plane, these remote wilderness lodges are usually a smaller, more intimate affair, offering a season long tug-ofwar with salmon, char, rainbows, or grayling. Many times it’s all of the above. Anglers depend on jet sleds to get to nearby fishing in rivers and small tributaries that are all but impossible to reach. These are places where you don’t have to worry about getting to your favorite beat and finding someone else wading in the center of the run. The river is usually just beyond the threshold, and the dawn ‘til dusk fishing is limited only by your enthusiasm or stamina.

Kris Kennedy photo

Outpost on the Nush

Western Alaska Spor t Fishing photos

T H E “ N U S H ” is a ﬁsh bum’s dream come true. Rise as early or late as you please ’cause there’s no competition to race to the pool. Fish hard all day, come back to camp and recharge with a hearty meal and a few ﬁsh stories. Then head to the home pools for as many casts as you can throw under the midnight sun. Camp is located in the upper reaches of the Nushagak River. This far up there are no other camps or lodges. Guests will have sole daily use of approximately 40 plus miles of prime, untouched river, full of quality resident rainbow trout, dolly varden, and grayling.

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Guests are transported by savvy guides in jet boats daily to fish a beautiful progression of riffles, runs, pools, cut banks, log jams, and tributary creeks. You won’t see another person. The camp is clean and comfortable, though not fancy, best suited to those who prefer rustic comfort, good camp food, and to fish hard and long each day. There are hot showers available daily. This is a hardcore fishing camp, with all the amenities you need to guarantee a successful and enjoyable fishing adventure. outpost on the nush s 7 Night / 6 Day package s June through September

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$9,000

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Copper River Lodge L O C A T E D R I G H T on the banks of the

famed Copper River near Iliamna, this is, arguably, the most beautiful location and one of the finer fishing locations for rainbow trout in our 49th state. Alaska the way most anglers imagine it to be — a shallow, crystal clear stream, alive with trout and salmon, flowing through an evergreen forest. One of the great advantages of a river based operation is flexibility in the daily fishing program… though you have four fly out days built into your package, should you experience a bad weather day you still have a great trout stream to fish. The lodge has various fishing options for those wanting to change things up. Guides can use the lodge’s large lake boat to go down the Copper to Lake Iliamna, then up the shores to Gibraltar River, another stream that can provide phenomenal trout fishing. As well, it is

an option to take a ﬂoat plane to the upper reaches of the Copper, where guides will row anglers back to the lodge in inﬂatable rafts. Copper River Lodge is the epitome of rustic comfortable. The lodge is fairly new and very well-appointed, built on a cliff overlooking the river. Comfortable double occupancy rooms that have spectacular views and ensuite bathrooms/showers ensure your time off the river is also memorable. With the superb staff and facilities, your stay will leave you relaxed and refreshed, headed home in better shape than when you arrived.

Copper River Lodge photos

copper river lodge s 6 Night / 6 Day package

$10,250

s June through September

Baranof Wilderness Lodge L O C A T E D O N the remote backside of Baranof Island, this lodge has an enormous marine ecosystem nearly to themselves. Whether trolling or mooching for all five species of Pacific salmon, fly fishing shallow saltwater flats and kelp beds for silver salmon and rock bass, pulling monster halibut off the bottom on conventional gear, or wading small creeks loaded with chum, pink salmon, and Dolly Varden eager for bright flies, you will have an experience without a bunch of other boats and anglers in sight. The lodge itself is right on remote Warm Springs Bay. The natural hot springs near the lodge are a wonderful way to relax after a hard day, as is the hot tub located at the foot of a crystalline mountain freshet.

You’ll also ﬁnd the accommodations of the spacious guest cabins and lodge to be superior. Elegantly furnished pine paneled cabins feature hot showers, baseboard heaters, bathrooms, and 24hour electricity. Meals are spectacular, much of it straight from the bounty of the sea fresh halibut, prawns, crab, salmon, the works! For those who don’t eat seafood, there is also plenty of great traditional lodge food. Baranof offers a wonderful program for non-anglers – whale-watching, sea kayaking, beach-combing, crabbing and shrimping, and excellent hiking.

Mike Mercer photo

baranof wilderness lodge $8,850 s June through September s 5 Night / 51⁄2 Day package

Baranof Wilderness Lodge photos phone

800-669-3474

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A L A S K A’ S T O P R I V E R C A M P S

Aniak River Lodge O N the remote banks of the Aniak River, it’s packed with rainbows, dollies, grayling, salmon, sheefish and northern pike. A complete fly fishing experience! Fishing can be done either wading or from the boats. Wading anglers tend to like the smaller tributaries and side channels, while boat anglers can cover fish on the main river that get almost no pressure. The wading is very simple and easy. There are excellent mousing opportunities as well. The lodge is unique among Alaska fly fishing lodges. First, their accommodations, instead of being either an established lodge or a wilderness tent camp, can actually be

L O C AT E D

both. Guests travel from Anchorage to the outpost village of Aniak, where they are met by lodge staff, and transferred upstream 30 miles to their lovely WeatherPort lodge on the remote banks of the river, where each two anglers will share a private 10´ x 30´ tent cabin with en-suite bathrooms and showers. Guests take their meals in the main WeatherPort. aniak river lodge The rate includes lodging, guided fishing, terminal tackle, and all meals, snacks, and drinks (alcohol is not provided). s 7 Night / 6 Day package $8,450 s Mid June through mid September

Brian O’Keefe photos

Goodnews River Lodge

Goodnews River Lodge photos

M I K E G O R T O N ’ S remote outpost camp on the Goodnews River has been popular with hardcore anglers for decades. This midrange-sized river is far enough off the beaten track so as to have very few free floaters, meaning most of the many miles of river “belong” to Mike’s guests for the week they will be there. The Goodnews experiences all five major runs of Pacific salmon, and has excellent populations of both rainbow trout and sea-run dollies. The camp itself is located just about where the upstream tidal influence ends, meaning the salmon one catches will be dime-bright and full of fight. The rainbows tend to be most numerous further up the river from camp, and wonderfully, are very email:

fond of skated mouse patterns. The camp is made up of 10 WeatherPort guest tents, each elevated off the ground, and connected to the main common area by a mostly elevated walkway. Each tent has a metal door with a window in the front, a frame window in the rear allowing for cross ventilation, and a full ensuite bathroom with ﬂush toilet and shower. Each tent is supplied with a propane heater, and lamp. goodnews river lodge The rate includes roundtrip airfare to the lodge from Anchorage, native fee, accommodations, meals, guided fishing, and termial tackle. s 7 Night / 6 Day package $7,995-$9,495 s Late June through early September

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Duncan & Sons River Camps D U N C A N & Sons is a family-owned and operated business that specializes in remote wilderness Base Camps – we represent their two operations on the Kanektok River, the Upper River Base Camp and the Lower River Base Camp. The Kanektok is one of the greatest fish factories of Kuskokwim Bay, with more rainbow trout and sea run Dolly Varden than can be imagined, as well as heavy runs of all 5 species of Pacific salmon. The Duncans use jet sleds to access the fishing grounds each day; sometimes they will have anglers fish from the boats (they have set them up to be rowed), and other times they will beach the boats and have guests wade the shallower runs and riffles. Due to the prolific and varied nature of the fishery, it is not unusual to be catching bright salmon all morning, then spend the afternoon catching trout, dollies and grayling. The guide will work with each angler, sharpening their skills, and will stay with them throughout the entire day.

Physically, the two camps are identical. They both feature comfortable WeatherPort tents built onto solid wood, raised platforms, both guest quarters and a separate tent in which to take your meals. Showers and well-designed outhouses with ﬂush toilets round out the camps, both of which are located right on the water. Typical of most such camps, breakfasts and dinners are taken in camp, while lunches are typically served stream-side.

DAV E

Duncan & Sons photo

duncan & sons river camps The rate includes all accommodations and meals, taxes, the round trip transfers from Quinhagak and the lodge, flies, and guide service. s Upper Camp: 7 Night / 6 Day package $7,200 7,100 s Lower Camp: 7 Night / 6 Day package s Mid June through August

Duncan & Sons photo

Duncan & Sons Kodiak Steelhead D U N C A N ’ S Steelhead Camp is based on a small river flowing directly into the Shelikof Strait, and is about as remote a location as can be imagined. Guests are flown into a remote coastal lagoon, where a helicopter flight will bring them to their home for the week. For the next 6 days, their only companions will be brown bears, foxes, eagles and amazing numbers of steelhead, big silver salmon and char. More than just another great fly fishing experience, this place is an adventure! The river camp theme of the operation allows for increased fishing time. Each two anglers will have a hard-working guide at their side every day, all day. In the event you aren’t exhausted from fighting big ocean-fresh fish by dinnertime, you can finish the day right outside your tent.

Duncan & Sons photos

It would be tough to imagine a more remote setting, even by Alaska standards. Guests will never see any other anglers other than those sharing the small camp with you, so there is never a need to rush to secure water each day. Relax, it is all yours! The camp is ﬂown in by helicopter each year to its site. The camp is comfortable, with each two anglers sharing a tent and guide. Tents are insulated, heated, and have lights inside. The meals are hearty.

THE

duncan & sons kodiak steelhead camp The rate includes meals (including beer and wine with dinner), sodas, lodging, and guided services while on the river. s 7 Night / 6 Day package $7,200 s Mid August through late October

Alaska Steelhead Company T H E S T E E L H E A D R I V E R S of the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska harbor fantastic runs of fresh steelhead in the fall months, providing a wonderful and diverse Alaskan steelhead experience. These rivers are gorgeous and super fishy, from small little coastal creeks, to big water that you will float…and all are extremely productive fisheries. Add to that the uniqueness that these are likely the furthest north latitudes that you can honestly target steelhead. We fish the fall season, when chromers begin to enter their natal streams in September, and continue to pour in and move upstream until late October. Guests will move from pool to pool throughout the day, covering as much water as possible, getting out to w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

wade and swing through each run, or ﬁshing nymph rigs from the boat. The rivers are exceptionally friendly to swing with either single or double-handed rods. The 5-day package includes two helicopter ﬂyouts to distant steelhead waters not accessible to the general public. This year guests can look forward to a newlypurchased and freshly-renovated lodge, with brand new cabins.

Matt Sprecher photo

alaska steelhead company $7,895 + 3% Tax s Includes 2 days of heli-fishing s Late August through October s 6 Night / 5 Day package

phone

800-669-3474

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ALASKA

Duncan & Sons Float Trips

Spectacular array of diverse, private water trout ﬁsheries!

Duncan & Sons photos

F L O A T I N G and fly fishing the Kanektok River is one of the ultimate fishing and wilderness experiences in North America. From your put-in at Kagati Lake, this freestone river flows roughly one hundred miles through the wilderness of the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge. It’s a fish factory - the spawning ground for all five species of Pacific salmon and home to exotic Arctic grayling, sea run Dolly Varden, and the beautifully-marked leopard rainbow trout. This is a wilderness float trip of dreams, with caribou walking

trails along the tundra bluffs, and brown bears feasting on tens of thousands of Pacific salmon. The Duncan’s use the finest float gear and are famous for the quality of their guides, food, and fishing. The Duncans are legendary. duncan & sons float trips $7,000 s Mid June through August s 7 Night / 6 Day package

Mike Mercer photo

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The Spirit of Alaska A Duncan Family Tradition Craig, and Todd were immediately an integral part of the operation.

THE ANNALS of Alaskan sport fishing destinations, few names are as iconic to the industry as the Duncan family. The patriarch, Dave Duncan, began traveling to Alaska from his home in Everett, Washington, in the 70’s, fishing and hunting and falling in love with the incredible wilderness. All through the 70’s he would arrange do-it-yourself trips with his family and friends, floating a new river each year. Then one season, they discovered the Kanektok River.

1982 Established their Lower Base Camp on the Kanektok. 1988 After a few years exploring Kodiak Island ﬁshing, they opened a salmon and steelhead camp on the Ayakulik River. Soon after they moved to the Karluk River, and a few years later moved to their current location on Invitation Creek. 1994 The Duncans were awarded the permit to operate their Upper Base Camp in the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge.

“Throughout these trips, there were many incredible rivers and places explored, but one stood out among them all. The Kanektok. We first saw this river from the air, and there was something compelling and different about it from the start. You could see that the river was full of fish, unique in character with many braids and forks, and very remote. When we first set foot on the river we knew immediately we had found something special. From that day forward, we called the river the Chosen. In part, because we didn’t want to call it by name and blow up this spot that we could tell was so sacred. We also wanted to protect what we had found and honor the people who call this place home. It was, and remains our chosen river, where we would build a family legacy, business, and relationships that would transcend generations.”

Perhaps the most amazing aspect of the Duncan’s story is how it has remained a multi-generational operation. What started as Dave Duncan bringing his young sons up to Alaska on float fishing adventures has evolved into one of the preeminent and most soughtafter wilderness camp destinations in all of Alaska, still owned and operated by those sons. “Over time, some members of our family stepped back from the business, and others into leadership roles that still define the operation today. Clint runs the Upper Base Camp, while Brad, John and Cutler (Brad’s son) oversee the Lower Base Camp. John’s son Eric operates the float trips, and Todd manages the Kodiak Steelhead Camp. As the years went on, the next generations naturally found their place in Alaska as well. Eric first came north in 1985 and has worked in every camp over the years, gaining a deep understanding of the entire operation. Brad’s son Cutler (third generation) first came to Alaska in 1998 and has since become an integral part of the Lower Base Camp. Eric’s son Gavin (fourth generation) first came up in 2016, starting on float trips and now works in the Lower Base Camp.”

Dave started as an official outfitter in Alaska with his good friend, Howard Odell, in 1981, calling their business American Wilderness Adventure. When Howard tragically died two years later, Dave decided to carry on with their shared vision, and changed the name of the business to Dave Duncan and Sons. Since its inception, this has always been a true family operation. In the early years, all five sons Clint, John, Brad, Craig, and Todd – worked as guides, learning every aspect of the business from the ground up. Behind the scenes, their sister Roxie and their mother, Sharon, kept things running smoothly at home back in Washington. Though the business was originally just float trips, in 1982 they established their first tent camp operation (what is now known as their Lower Base Camp), using prop boats with manual jack-plates to ferry anglers around to the various fishing areas. In 1994 they were awarded the sole concession to operate another camp upriver, in the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge (now known as their Upper Base Camp), a nod of recognition to their longheld commitment to stewardship of the river, established in their first camp downriver.

Here at The Fly Shop® we’ve worked with the Duncans for decades, and could not ask for better partners. We send them clients, and those anglers come home happy and very often continue to return for years. The Duncans are a salt of the earth family, genuinely loving what they do, sharing their amazing corner of Alaska with their guests. They cannot imagine a more fulfilling lifestyle – they look forward to the start of every season, and are sad when the time comes to close down the camps. It doesn’t hurt that their chosen river is one of the finest in Alaska, the rare fishery offering both huge numbers of mint-bright salmon fresh in from the sea, and worldclass rainbow trout fishing, always only a short boat ride away. And they have dedicated their lives to helping it stay that way.

“We’ve also built a strong relationship with the federal agencies we work with. Our Upper Base Camp is located within the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge, where we are the only outfitter holding an overnight permit. We take that responsibility seriously. We adhere to a strict ‘Leave No Trace’ policy, limit our motorized boat usage, and operate in a way that prioritizes the long-term health of the land and river.” 1981 Dave Duncan with partner, Howard O’Dell, started their outfitting operation in Alaska, running 3 floats a week for 8 to 9 weeks a season on the Kanektok River. Dave’s sons – Clint, John, Brad, w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

phone

800-669-3474

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Canada

These Canadian destinations are the best dollar-for-dollar values in the world of ﬂy ﬁshing travel! Pat Pendergast photo

I S little doubt that western Canada, especially the provinces of British Columbia and Alberta, are some of the best bargains in the fly fishing travel world, and offer some of the finest trout and steelhead fishing on the North American continent. The air is clear, the skies are bluer than can be imagined and the waters teem with trout and steelhead. The U.S. dollar is strong and goes a long way towards the purchase of a first-class outdoor experience that is fast disappearing in other places. Sparsely-populated British Columbia and Alberta are surprisingly easy to get to from the lower 48, as well as economical, and The Fly Shop® is fortunate to represent the very best of the wilderness destinations in the two provinces. The lodges and outfitters that we have assembled in British Columbia and Alberta are some of the finest in the angling world. They represent a broad spectrum of angling opportunities from classic steelhead fly fishing to stalking native rainbows slurping dries on a clear mountain stream. All of the lodges are family-operated and owned and offer intimate angling experiences with very limited rod space during the short, condensed Canadian summer. Common to all our outfitters is a genuine concern that each angler’s dreams are realized, with a total commitment to meeting and/or exceeding their trip expectations. Not be forgotten is eastern Canada and their prolific striped bass fishery in Québec, as well as sea-run brook trout and Atlantic salmon fishing.

THERE

Gaspé Coastal photos

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email:

i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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CANADA

Eastslope Adventures This remote destination, located about 3 hours driving time south of Calgary, is one of the most exciting wild trout dry ﬂy ﬁshing destinations we have ever offered in North America. C A M A N D his team of talented guides have a host of

public and private access fisheries to share with you. Most of these fisheries are walk-and-wade excursions, though a few incorporate rafts with rowing frames for day floats. The variety of water within easy striking distance of your lodging is superb. We feel the biggest draw to this program is the opportunity to fish relatively small streams, often in complete privacy. The dry fly season is quite long here, stretching from mid-June through September, and offers a mixed bag of predictable mayfly and caddis hatches, as well as summertime terrestrials. Even when there are no visible hatches, one can often sight-fish to big trout lying in shallow water, inducing them to the surface with well-placed casts. Tough weather conditions? No problem. Anglers can put a nymph dropper under their dry fly, and hammer trout. The fish here are impressive specimens, deepbodied rainbows, browns and cutthroat averaging 1520 inches; fish in the 20-23 inch range are surprisingly abundant, and there is always the chance for a true monster in excess of the two-foot mark. Cam operates out of a beautiful 4,000-square foot traditional log lodge, situated right on the banks of the Waterton River, a wonderful and lightly-fished brown trout fishery. Also on the large grounds are a small

spring creek and a series of beaver ponds, the latter with some impressive big rainbows, should you want to match wits with them one day. Each two guests share spacious rooms, complete with ensuite bathrooms. Breakfasts and dinners are prepared and served in the lodge’s dining room, with lunches served on the water. Cam has a Cast-and-Blast program in September and October that combines his amazing fishing options with world-class waterfowling for ducks and geese, as well as upland hunting for Hungarian partridge and Sharp-tailed grouse. For those that like the best of both sporting worlds, this is a great opportunity to combine world-class fly fishing and wingshooting, all outfitted by one of the most seasoned and respected outfitting teams in the west.

Eastslope Adventures photos

eastslope adventures The rate includes terminal tackle, fly fishing guides, lodging, all meals, and transportation to all the fisheries. s 7 Night / 6 Day package $6,110 s Mid June through late October Not included are transportation to the lodge, Canadian fishing license, and liquor

Henr y Georgi photo

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phone

800-669-3474

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CANADA

Spatsizi River Spatsizi River Outfitters is one of the most exclusive fly-out wilderness trips on the North American map. T H E G I L S O N family has the exclusive outfitting rights to the Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Provincial Park, a 3,600square mile chunk of raw land that is loaded with more rainbow trout streams and lakes than could possibly be fished in a lifetime. Spatsizi’s a multi-generational, family operated lodge. Every guest is made to feel like family here. The level of service goes beyond merely good – from the time you land in a float plane in front of the wilderness lodge, you are catered to. Every cabin is rustic elegance, every meal superb, and every fishing choice is discussed at length. There is a reason so many people return here every season! The fishing has been equated to having an enormous Yellowstone Park all to yourself, with a float plane to access all the streams. There are countless lakes in the spectacularly beautiful Spatsizi Wilderness Park on which to land the plane, then walk and wade up or down the streams that feed or empty them. These streams get zero outside pressure, and the numbers and naiveté of the fish here can be stunning. Anglers can catch large numbers of chunky rainbow trout on dry flies, in shallow and clear water.

This is a true wilderness experience in the wild country of British Columbia. The season is only eight weeks long this far north, and the ﬁsh are ravenous. It is common to catch dozens of eager rising rainbows every day. There are also bull trout honey holes – mostly where streams ﬂow into lakes – where it’s highly possible to hook huge specimens of this aggressive char, some in excess of a dozen pounds! Anglers are accommodated in cozy log cabins. The log cabins are carpeted and have electricity (from a generator) and come equipped with cozy log beds, and wood stoves. The lodge’s shared bathrooms include two shower facilities with sinks that are centrally located with plenty of hot water. Wolf and Bear cabins have newly-installed showers and sinks inside the cabins with the toilets centrally located between the two. spatsizi river outfitters s 7 Night / 6 Day package s Late June through August

Spatsizi Wilderness Lodge photos

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email:

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$9,050

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CANADA

Tsylos Lodge The Chilko River is a fantastic fishery, with quality rainbows. A D V E N T U R E begins when you board a twin-engine aircraft in Vancouver, BC, for a one and a half hour flight to Chilko Lake, a 50-mile long turquoise blue lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, canopies of untouched forests, and fed by the numerous ancient glacier streams of the Coast Mountains. At the north end of Chilko Lake, nestled at the headwaters of the Chilko River, is Tsylos Park Lodge. Chilko Lake and its namesake river are among the most unique fisheries habitats in North America. It is a major spawning habitat for the resident species of rainbow trout, bull trout, Rocky Mountain whitefish, and has a major run of late season sockeye salmon. Chilko River is a unique rainbow trout fishery featuring a dry fly season that begins in July and extends into September. The waters are so clear you are able to watch a 20-inch wild rainbow track your fly, then explode on it, bringing an elated howl from you and a scream from your reel. There are also large bull trout here. For those wanting to hook into a monster fish, guides will take anglers to where smaller streams drain into

YOUR

Chilko Lake. Here large bull trout lurk, preying on the smaller trout near the creek mouths. You can cast large streamers for trout that sometimes measure over ten pounds! It’s a great option for a trophy ﬁsh picture. The beautiful log lodge is the gathering area at Tsylos. It offers a warm, cozy, and relaxing atmosphere to enjoy good times – and create lasting memories! It is an authentic wilderness log lodge made by hand from local timber and stone, with a big stone ﬁreplace, large log beams, and big decks that overlook the Chilko River. Fourteen guests are accommodated in log cabins or rooms. The lodge offers four cabins; two are larger cabins for groups of 4-5 persons. The other two cabins host two persons in each unit offering private entrances, bathrooms, comfy beds with Egyptian cotton sheets, down duvets, and a seating area. There is also a room for two in the lodge loft bedroom.

Missy Mandel photo

tsylos park lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$7,195

s Late June through late August

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phone

800-669-3474

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CANADA

Andrés Fly Fishing Experience the best dry fly fishing in the Canadian Rockies T R O U T T O W N – Fernie, British Columbia, Canada, is located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, and within easy striking distance of the world-renowned Elk River and its tributaries. These are classic freestone streams, holding native Westslope cutthroat trout, as well as aboveaverage-size resident bull trout. Our outfitter, Andrés Fly Fishing, offers an extremely diverse fly fishing program with over half a dozen trout fisheries within a short drive of this mountain community. Fernie is a quaint and picturesque mountain town nestled in the Elk River Valley/East Kootenay region of southeastern British Columbia, located on BC Highway 3 on the western approaches to the Crowsnest Pass. From town you will see spectacular views of Mount Hosmer “upside down mountain”. This Canadian Rockies town is an adventure destination known for powder skiing during the winter, and hiking, fly fishing, rafting, arts, mountain biking, culture, and fine cuisine the rest of the year. These trout fisheries offer excellent dry fly fishing and are well-known for their fish-holding structure and crystal

Andres Flyfishing – Fernie photos

clear waters. Each day, you’ll drift or walk-and-wade wild rivers with amazing vistas of the Canadian Rockies. Anglers select the level of lodging they would like during their stay, from simple hotels in the town center to fullservice mountain resorts. Breakfasts and dinners are taken on your own, and dining options vary depending on which lodging option you choose. Lunch as well as your non-alcoholic beverages are included during each of your guided fishing days. Andrés and his team have over a decade of experience in the area, and over 29 years in the guiding and outfitting industry. They will make sure you have a memorable and enjoyable experience. This trip is a classic Western Canada trout fishing adventure, perfect for anglers looking for easy travel, strong numbers of Westslope cutthroat, all under the guidance of an experienced outfitter. What more could you ask for? andrés flyfishing – fernie, elk river $5,745 s Late June through September s 5 Night / 4 Day package

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CANADA

Gaspé Coastal A proper Canadian Maritimes fly fishing experience G A S P É is a special place and we’re super excited about this program that combines flats fishing for stripers, swinging flies for Atlantic salmon, dry fly fishing for sea-run brook trout, great food and a stunning backdrop where the Appalachian Mountains terminate into the north Atlantic Ocean. The topography of Chaleur Bay offers a unique opportunity to pursue several species of fish using multiple fly fishing techniques during a single week, from the tranquil estuaries, salt marshes and rocky coastline of Chaleur Bay where schools of striped bass congregate, to meandering, gin-clear rivers where strong populations of Atlantic salmon and sea-run brook trout return each year. This is a multi-species trip that combines the best of sight-fishing in the salt as well as traditional swing fishing with single and double-hand rods for anadromous species. Andrew & Sarah have been operating and guiding in Canada their whole careers. Their attention to detail, technical knowledge, hospitality, and mastery of the gear and techniques needed to be successful make this trip an instant hit. Let the professionals take care of all the details, you can just concentrate on connecting with the storied history and fisheries in this magical place.

THE

The Nadeau House is a historically rich property set along the banks of the world-renowned Grand Cascapedia River. Nestled just behind the charming streets of Cascapedia-SaintJules. The restored 19th-century home offers the perfect blend of history, comfort, and river access. The lodge, which accommodates 8 rods, features 6 cozy queen-bed rooms and 2 king-bed rooms, each sharing a bathroom. Each angler will have his own single and private room. Additionally, a dedicated wader room is available to store and dry your gear. Internet access is also available for your convenience. A stay at Nadeau House is an experience in the true Gaspésie hospitality. Libations are taken in the parlor from the full bar in the evening. The culinary experience, carefully curated, celebrates the best of local flavors incorporating fresh ingredients from Atlantic seafood to seasonal farm produce and meats. gaspé coastal s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$7,900 CAD

s June through September

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phone

800-669-3474

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CANADA

Epic Narrows Musky Camp O F T H E W O O D S is a worldfamous musky fishery, perfectly designed by nature, offering sheltered waters, visible structure, big bodies of shallow water and a mix of tannic and clear water to fish each day. The Epic Boys have spent the last five years perfecting the special techniques, flies, lines and fly rigs to effectively fish for musky. Don’t get us wrong, this is very challenging fishing, but everyone will get many chances over their 5 days of fishing. For most of us, muskies are a new species to pursue with a fly rod, as exotic as a peacock bass, golden dorado, or taimen. This is an opportunity to check a musky off your bucket list, the largest predatory freshwater gamefish in North America – and not leave the continent. The fishing program is centered around casting large flies to trophy musky in predominantly sheltered waters. The biggest fish feed during moonrise and moonset, sunrise and sunset which are called majors and minors. The topwater fishing can be very exciting and especially productive right

LAKE

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Jimmie Pederson photos

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at dark so the program is structured to make sure anglers are on the water at very specific times of the day. In addition to trophy musky, there is great smallmouth bass fishing in June using poppers, as well as crayfish and minnow patterns. There are lots of 4pound smallies to target in the Lake of the Woods. There are also big pike that hunt the shallow bays and lagoons along grass lines in the lake that can be targeted or caught as a by-catch while musky fishing. You will be accommodated in a very nice waterfront cottage, located in a secluded cove and within easy striking distance of the fishing grounds. There are both single and double occupancy rooms available with all of the amenities of home. Complete with 24-hour power. Delicious food, created by professional chefs who have mastered their craft is paired with wine and beer. Their food is exceptionally good! epic narrows musky camp $5,250 s Early June through July s 5 Night / 51⁄2 Day package

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CANADA

Nootka Wilderness Lodge N O O T K A W I L D E R N E S S L O D G E is

a very comfortable floating lodge surrounded by temperate rainforest and overlooking the scenic Nootka Sound. The rooms are nice and appropriate for dedicated anglers, non-anglers, and even families. You can relax and leave the details to the talented and seasoned staff, and concentrate on fishing and enjoy the wilds of Maritime British Columbia and Nootka Sound. The fishing program here is based on hard-core conventional tackle fishing for salmon (mostly chinook salmon, but some coho in August/September), plus options for bottom fishing for rockfish, lingcod, and halibut. The guides fish hard, often on the water at first light, and back late in the evenings. They can also do mixed days. When the fishing is hot (which is often the case), they often limit out on salmon very early in the day. This allows time for other angling opportunities such as fly fishing for trout. There are plenty of outdoor activities as well, such as kayaking, whale watching, crabbing, hiking, and bird viewing.

There are ample fly fishing opportunities here as well! Primary fly fishing venues are small creeks and mediumsized rivers that drain into Nootka Sound. These range from 20 minutes to about an hour run time from the lodge. The boats can drop people off to wade the streams, which hold resident cutthroat or rainbow trout, as well as searun cutthroats, Dolly Varden, and later in the season coho salmon. The lodge itself is built entirely on floats, consisting of a series of buildings which connect by wooden docks and walkways. In the front is a large deck, complete with comfortable chairs and faux fire pits. One can imagine comfortable summer evenings sitting on the deck, fire glowing in the pits. The building to the north of the main lodge houses the guest rooms, a twostory building with 6 rooms downstairs and 6 rooms upstairs, each configured with two beds, with en suite baths. The rooms are cozy, with carpeted floors, windows that look out on the water, heat for cool nights, a closet, chair, and nightstand. nootka wilderness lodge $5,295 s Early June through late September s 4 Night / 5 Day package

Andrew Shields photos

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NewZealand I was recently on the phone with a client, and the subject of New Zealand came up.

“Yeah,” he said, “I’ve always dreamed of a trip down to New Zealand. The country just looks so incredible, and sight-fishing in smaller streams for trout that average 3-5 pounds… there’s not many places in the world that offer that! But I’ve heard the fishing is pretty demanding – it sounds like you need to be able to throw perfect 70-foot casts to have a chance at hooking fish?” I D O N ’ T K N O W how many times I’ve heard some iteration of this misconception from traveling anglers. The truth is, the best New Zealand lodges offer a variety of different rivers for their guests to fish, and each offers their own unique attractions and challenges. Yet in each case guides will try and get their clients as close to the trout that is being stalked as possible, understanding that a short cast is much more likely to be an accurate one than a longer effort. Guides here are careful to have guests dress in drab colors, use camo-colored fly lines, stalk each fish slowly and carefully – the fish do demand some caution to avoid spooking them – but anglers on most rivers come to understand that their average cast is only 30-40 feet. It does need to be reasonably accurate, but that is true in most places we fish. My

suggestion to this gentleman and so many others like him is to not allow a fear of casting inadequacy stop them from experiencing this remarkable destination. The country is stunningly beautiful, the people exceptionally welcoming and hospitable (and Englishspeaking), the cuisine is to die for, and the streams are picture perfect. It is a quality over quantity game, with browns and rainbows averaging around 4 pounds, and an average day seeing fishermen casting to 4-8 fish. The guides are patient teachers who have an almost supernatural ability to spot fish. And you never know when you might happen upon an 8 or 10-pound ‘gator of a brown, quietly feeding in a crystal clear pool. This is the New Zealand that keeps me coming back. – Mike Mercer The Fly Shop Travel Specialist

Brian O’Keefe photos

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NEW ZEALAND

Owen River Lodge This South Island fly fishing destination is a dream for serious trophy brown trout anglers who like to sight-fish to big fish with dries and nymphs. R I V E R L O D G E is exceptionally well run, and has access (within an hour’s drive) to well over 20 world-class trout streams. Though they can arrange for heli-fishing quickly and easily, what sets them apart is that with all the drive-to fishing, they don’t have to fly. Eleven Angling chose this area for the incredible density and diversity of water. On any given day you can choose to fish dry flies to big, bankfeeding browns in tiny spring creeks, or throw dries and droppers to oversized trout hanging in the pockets of larger freestone streams. This is one of the most impressive and diverse (predominantly non fly-out) fishing operations on the South Island, from the gorgeous streamside accommodations, superb dining experience, amazing guides and lodge staff, tremendous supply of quality fishing gear for guest use, and their array of non angling options. No expense has been spared to make this one of the premier fishing lodges in New Zealand. Owen River Lodge offers some of the world's finest sighted dry fly fishing for wild resident brown trout. The region has a huge variety of rivers from which to choose, from small intimate rivers like the backyard Owen River, to iconic

O W E N

freestone rivers such as the Wairau. Each season, the lodge's fisheries have granted a handful of angler's dream of landing a 10-pound trophy brown. One of the most comfortable fly fishing lodges on the South Island, Eleven Angling has spared no expense in making their accommodations luxurious, and the food, 5-star. The private cottage suites are in beautiful natural gardens overlooking the Owen River itself, so your non-fishing hours are spent in the lap of luxury and you will be amazed at the quality and ingenuity of the lodge’s daily menu. They love to spoil their guests, allowing them to immerse themselves in the warm and inviting ambiance. The views from the lodge and guest cottage suites is absolutely breathtaking, with sensational outlooks to the Owen River, the valley, Mount Owen and the Kahurangi National Park. The lodge sits on the bank of the Owen River and with almost a kilometer of river frontage, it is an ideal locale for that quiet afterdinner cast during the evening rise. owen river lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package $6,860-$8,680 USD s Shorter stay options available s Early October through late April

Owen River Lodge photos

Bill Bachman photo

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NEW ZEALAND

Cedar Lodge This South Island fly fishing Mecca is the #1 heli-fishing experience in New Zealand and possibly on the planet. L O D G E is located on New Zealand’s South Island, about 90 minutes northeast of the community of Queenstown. The snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps surround the Makarora Valley and the cozy lodge that has hosted the most illustrious names in fly fishing for nearly twenty-five years. One thing that truly sets Cedar apart from other NZ lodges is that they do all their fishing via short helicopter flight access, the cost of which is included in the package rate. Not only do you start and finish each fishing day with some spectacular flights in the Southern Alps, but you access streams that get almost no pressure outside of Cedar Lodge guests. With so little pressure, the big trout in these streams are aggressive, translating into more hookups for anglers. Guests enjoy sight-fishing to large rainbow and brown trout in various size streams, each with its own character and personality. There are few places in the world where you can consistently find such large fish willing to come to the surface and eat dry flies in gin-clear

CEDAR Brian O’Keefe photos

water. Most days you will have repeated chances to hook the trout of your life. There are 4 spacious and comfortable double occupancy rooms, connected to the main lodge with a breezeway. Rooms have recently been remodeled and feature en suite, full bathrooms, comfortable beds, and offer plenty of space to unpack and organize your gear. The large picture windows in the rooms afford amazing views of the Southern Alps and Mount Aspiring National Park. Some might argue that the worldclass ﬁshing is secondary to the delicious taste sensations from Cedar Lodge’s kitchen! Featuring the very best “clean and green” produce NZ has to offer, you'll dine on world famous lamb, venison, fresh seafood from NZ’s bountiful ocean, farm fresh vegetables, fruits freshly picked, and exotic desserts. cedar lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$12,950-$15,750 USD s Shorter stay options available s November through April

Stew Armstrong photo

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NEW ZEALAND

Poronui Ranch Poronui is a historic fishing lodge where you will go fly fishing for superb New Zealand trout in pristine waters P O R O N U I I S a luxury fly fishing lodge nestled in the Taharua Valley, southeast of Taupo on New Zealand’s stunning North Island, offering guests the opportunity to sight-fish to legendary fish in stunning and pure surroundings. The 16,000-acre property is possibly the most opulent fishing lodge New Zealand has to offer, and has been a favored fishing and hunting ground for ancient Maori tribes, and since 1877, the English settlers. Today the trout fishing and hunting on Poronui are known as world-class. The landscape at Poronui is as varied as the sky is big. Crystal clear mountain water tumbles through forests of beech and native ferns, then twists its way through alpine meadows of wild grasses once they reach the valley floor. In the summer months, as mayflies settle on the water’s surface, fishing becomes religion. Poronui has excellent drive-to fishing with the guides daily, though they also have quick and easy access to helicopters for those who would like to pay extra for the experience. Expect that the heli fishing will be encouraged while

you are there, as you can reach streams that barely get touched by anglers each season, increasing the chances of hooking more and larger fish. One of the most elegant fly fishing lodges in New Zealand, it is located in the middle of an enormous private ranch. Accommodations are luxurious, and sit on a cliff above a classic trout stream. You will often spend part of your fishing stay on exclusive ranch water that gets no outside fishing pressure, and return each day to gourmet food and comfortable and well-appointed cottage suites that are only a short walk to the main lodge. Every day here is memorable, starting with the luxurious lodge and delectable fresh breakfasts. Poronui is large enough to host 12 anglers comfortably and has a casual-yetelegant atmosphere that makes guests feel immediately at home. poronui ranch s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$16,515 NZD

s Shorter stay options available s Early June through late October

Steve Couper photo

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phone

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r pa

Designed & Field-Tested by The Fly Shop® Staff. A Team You Can Trust to Deliver Great Fly Fishing Products at Great Prices!

Jeff Forsee photo

QUALITY EQUIPMENT FOR ECONOMY-MINDED FLY FISHERMEN

Signature Series H2O Fly Rods Signature H2O rods for the anglers who have dialed in their casting stroke T H E S E H A N D S O M E R O D S employ a more expensive, higher modulus

graphite than our Fresh H2O models. Those differences translate into a fly rod with a moderately faster action that’s better matched for experienced anglers who have more refined, practiced, casting skills. These high performance rods employ what was once called “reserve power” – a resilience that’ll drive the line a little farther, help toss the line into the teeth of a stiff wind, or handle a larger dry fly or big streamer when extra power is applied. Signature H2O Fly Rod features s Dynamic, powerful, progressive action s Superb components, tailored to each model s Beautifully-finished buckeye reel seats s An extra tip comes with every rod s Complete with The Fly Shop’s segmented rod/reel case Signature H2O Fly Rod Warranty Signature H2O rods are warranteed by The Fly Shop®. We'll replace or repair any H2O rod for the original purchaser, charging no more than $55 plus $6.50 shipping. It’s a great deal without an expensive, hidden premium for a lifetime guarantee.

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All seven of our Signature H2O fly rod models sport components that are a step up from our Fresh H2O fly rods. All of the Signature rods feature handsome Buckeye hardwood reel inserts and more expensive components than you’ll find on comparably-priced rods. They also feature a dark, non-glare finish that won’t spook fish.

“At only $309 these rods outperform others at triple the cost! There isn’t another rod that can match its performance at any cost. You have our word on it!” – Zachary Miller TFS Guide, Instructor & former retail associate

Scan code for more info about The Fly Shop’s Signature Series H2O Fly Rods, rod & reel outfits and pricing.

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Mongolia Six-plus days of ﬁshing an incredibly beautiful and remote taimen Sanctuary. M O N G O L I A I S the least densely populated country in the world. It’s roughly the

size of Alaska, yet outside of the main capital city of Ulaanbaatar the remainder of this vast wilderness is sparsely populated by nomads who live off the land tending their herds of cows, sheep, goats, yaks, and camels. There is absolutely no property ownership outside of Ulaanbaatar. No fences, very few roads, and what people you encounter once you leave the city will likely be on horseback. For anglers, these journeys are widely recognized as among the world’s very finest fly fishing experiences. Taimen are the largest salmonid on earth, aggressive predators that attack streamers or top-water patterns with reckless abandon. The trout and grayling fishing is often overlooked, but can be world-class in its own right and casting light tackle and dry flies provides a great diversion from the heavier rods required for the taimen. Taimen are a pre-historic mega-fish, and the largest member of the salmonid family. Taimen will migrate great distances each year to access spawning, feeding, and winter habitats. Mongolian taimen do not run out to the ocean or even large lakes, preferring to spend their entire life cycle in the relatively small rivers where they were spawned. Mongolia itself is a remarkable place, and its people are truly wonderful. While the fishing is so often what draws people to this unique world, it is usually the sheer beauty of the landscapes and smiling faces of those met along the way that keeps them coming back year after year. While in Ulaanbaatar, a professional guide will be available to introduce you to the capital's very interesting monasteries, museums, performances, and shops. The guides are wonderful and will help make your visit to Mongolia's capital enjoyable.

Erik Argotti photo

Jeff Forsee photo

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F LY F I S H M O N G O L I A

Headwaters Expedition

Canyon Float Trip

T H I S T R I P is a massive adventure, combining

Mongolia River Outfitters photo

Erik Argotti photo

everything from small regional aircraft to offroad vehicles to horses and camels. Participants must be in very good physical condition to participate in this expedition! This is a trip for guests who prefer to wade/walk. On this trip, the boats are used primarily for transport. The section of river is amazingly well suited for fly fishing. The river has loads of structure. There are many small pool/drop rapids and loads of interesting features, including a sufficient amount of riffles and pools. Mongolia features more than just trophy taimen fishing; these rivers are also home to a wonderful variety of other fly-rod savvy fish. The trout and grayling fishing is often overlooked but can be outstanding in its own right. On the Headwaters Expedition, guests will stay in two types of accommodation: gers and tents (tipis). With their wooden lattice frames, wood-burning stoves and insulating felt walls, sleeping in a cozy Mongolian ger is a great experience. It’s much like having a spacious streamside hotel room. The tents (tipis) are also very comfortable. The tipis are over ten feet tall and nearly eighteen feet wide.

C A N Y O N A D V E N T U R E ” is designed for those of us who like a bit more comfort with our expedition. You drift day after day floating down a glorious mountain stream casting to hungry grayling, large trout and massive taimen. In the evening, you’ll stay at a string of lovely and very comfortable ger camps. The trip is a mix of remote location, great fishing, superb guides, unique culture, and outstanding wilderness accommodations. The fishing is done almost entirely from a drift boat or raft, using large streamers or topwater poppers. When the water is clear, we frequently spot cast for big fish, much like chasing tarpon on the flats. Taimen are giant predators, renowned for a ferocious appetite and explosive strike. There are eight comfortable Mongolian ger (yurt) camps along the prime waters. The camps are a days float apart, each one situated along a uniquely beautiful stretch of river with great fishing right out the front door. The gers provide ample space to accommodate two anglers. Outfitted with all the essentials – wood burning stove, wash basin, writing table, camp chairs, sleeping cots, and woolen carpets to decorate the floors.

THIS

“CLASSIC

Andrew Burr photo

Erik Argotti photo

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MONGOLIA RIVER OUTFITTER

Buryat Headwaters Expedition

Upper River Float

to only four anglers per expedition, beginning in the uppermost section of this unique and beautiful river, considered sacred in Mongolia as the birthplace of Ghengis Khan. You’ll ﬁsh through a very diverse, mountainous landscape targeting world-class taimen, Amur trout, lenok, grayling, and Amur pike. Anglers float between tented camps strategically placed along the river. These trips run with just two guides and four guests. The trip is supported by a small camp team that transfers equipment down the river using gear boats. The river is gentle. There are no rapids, but the flow is steady with loads of features, including plenty of riffles and pools. The ﬁshing is done almost exclusively from a drift boat. Guests are accommodated in very large tenttipis complete with cots and simple bedrolls. When you arrive at each evening’s camp, the professional staff has your bags waiting, beds made, fires lit, and dinner ready to serve. The cooks are veterans. The food is fresh, diverse and well-suited to Western tastes.

T H E C L A S S I C Mongolia River Outﬁtters journey…

LIMITED

six days of fishing in a beautiful landscape, with a fascinating culture, professional staff, exceptional camps, and world-class fishing. A small group of anglers will explore nearly ninety miles of pristine river. You will fish for taimen, lenok and Amur trout & pike on a fresh stretch of river every day, and stay in a well-appointed ger camp every evening. With the “no drive” schedule, we spend our fishing time on the river rather than shuttling in a vehicle or motoring in a boat from a single camp to reach new water. The pace is relaxed and you’ll have time to get out and wade interesting stretches with your guide. We’ve found it’s best to cover an average of ten to twelve miles of river each day. The fishing is good through all sections of the river. A hearty lunch is served streamside each day and there are plenty of drinks and snacks. Much like an African tented safari, the camps are rustic but very comfortable. Each campsite along the river is peaceful, designed to reflect Mongolian traditions and integrate with the country's natural surroundings. They are completed with cook tent, hot showers, toilet facilities, and gers for eating and sleeping. There are no generators or stereos, only the sounds of the trees and the river, the lights of candles and stoves, and the sparkling night stars. The food is fresh, diverse and very well-suited to Western tastes.

Michael Caranci photos

Erik Argotti photo

Lower River Float T H E L O W E R R I V E R is the most remote ﬁshery in

this already remote region - vehicle access is nearly impossible along much of the stretch. On Lower River trips, guests are accommodated in fully kitted ger camps for only the first and last evening. The rest of the trip you’ll have rustic camps outfitted with large, comfortable North Face tents complete with cots. Each guest is provided with their own tent unless they prefer to share. The gear is transported in separate boats so that when you float into camp, the stoves are lit, dinner is served, and your bags and beds are waiting in a completely new location. All of the camps have simple shower facilities located in specially designed tents…same with the toilets. Both facilities are quite comfortable and private. The river is wide and gentle. There are no rapids, but the flow is steady with loads of interesting features, including riffles and pools. Guests fish through the world’s first taimen sanctuary, and fish only the prime season when the water is generally very clear. However, w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

gin clear water is not guaranteed. Wild taimen only survive in true wilderness. There are no dams and river ﬂows ﬂuctuate substantially with the weather. Along the river journey, you’ll certainly encounter the unique Mongolian nomads. It’s a marvelous event, getting to see and interact with these amazing people and their ancient ways. Watching the nomads dressed in their traditional clothing while they gallop across the wide open spaces to their brilliant white gers sometimes feels like you’ve stepped back in time.

Michael Caranci photo Andrew Burr photo

mongolia floats and camps The rate includes river transfers, hotel in Ulaanbaatar, permits, all guided fishing, meals, lodging, and drinks (sodas, beer, wine and classic Mongolian vodka at camp). s 11 / 10 Night / 7 Day or 9 Night / 6 Day packages $8,500 s Early June through October s Two week package $15,500 Combining 2 weeks for a Mongolian fly fishing adventure is the ultimate Mongolia fishing experience. s

phone

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The Grand Slam of Swing ( K I N G S ) These are the monsters of the group. Kings top the size chart of all of the big 4, with world record specimens nearing 100 pounds. Also indigenous to the Pacific Rim, the native range is very similar and overlapping with steelhead. Chinook are also very adaptable to different river conditions and times of year, but most of the great fly-targetable runs are in the spring through the middle of summer. Finding rivers that are good for swinging for kings is the trick. Chinook swim many rivers but finding those rivers where the fish hold in moving water that is not too deep and that is relatively close to the sea are the ingredients for success. The brighter the better with kings. They take flies better and fight harder the fresher they are. They are actually very grabby when you get the right conditions and fresh fish on the tide can wear you out. You need to get the fly right down in front of them with the sink tip, as they are not known for rising in the water column to the fly like some of the other species. If you figure out how to get the fly right in front of them, they will pound it. The fights are down and dirty. Hard runs and pit bull head shakes are excellent at breaking things like leaders, reels, rods and fingers. Gear up with 9 or 10 weights and be ready to pump them up and reel down like a tuna. These things are crazy tough, and super strong. They don't call them the “King” for nothing.

CHINOOK

Matt Harris photo

T I G H T line tug is what keeps us swinging…It’s addictive! There is no sweeter feeling in fly fishing than a swung fly being taken by a sea-run monster in a river. Period. If you swing flies, you agree. This is the Grand Slam of Swing: steelhead, chinook, Atlantic salmon and sea run brown trout. All of them are badass. They all have a hardcore following of dedicated anglers and each species dominates on a certain part of the globe during certain times of the year. Any Spey caster that loves one of these species is sure to love the others, and getting to shake hands with all of them should be a priority for anybody that swings.

THE

The Spey casters go-to choice in the Pacific Northwest (and Pacific Far East). Unbelievably adaptable, we chase them every month of the year, from the redwoods of California to the rain forests of Canada, and from the tundra of eastern Russia, to the high deserts of Idaho. Frozen rivers in January and near boiling in July, we can find steelhead all around the Pacific’s Ring of Fire whenever we get the chance to wander. These sea-run rainbows are unique in every drainage. They can average 3 lbs in one river and run in the summer, while thirty miles up the coast they average 15 pounds and run in the winter. They can do it all…they’ll explode on skated flies in the summer and fall, in gin clear water, and crush huge Intruders on deep sink tips in water with virtually no visibility in the winter. They can hit like a freight train, or just barely pluck at the fly. They can run as fast as any fish in freshwater and burn up reels, or dog down and play tug-o-war in the current. They are notorious jumpers, but not all the time. Every river, every season and every fish has its secrets to unlock, making them the ultimate year ‘round swing fish.

STEELHEAD

Top Lodges to Target Steelhead: British Columbia, Canada Pg. 53 s Suskeena Lodge British Columbia, Canada Pg. 53 s Babine Steelhead Lodge British Columbia, Canada Pg. 52 s Skeena Spey Lodge British Columbia, Canada Pg. 53 s The Kamchatka Steelhead Project Russian Far East Website s The Alaska Steelhead Company Alaska Pg. 29 s Frontier Steelhead Experience

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Top Lodges to Target Chinook: Alaska Pg. 50 s Hoodoo’s Sandy River Lodge Alaska Pg. 51 s Hoodoo Sportﬁshing Alaska Pg. 51 s Lava Creek Lodge

A T L A N T I C S A L M O N Atlantic salmon have a following as reverent as steelhead do, and for good reason. These fish are made for swinging. They move very aggressively to flies and will rise right to the surface for floating line presentations. They can get on an entirely different scale of BIG compared with steelhead, with fish over 60 lbs taken on flies. Just like steelhead though, not all salmon rivers produce huge fish. Some just have 5+ pound “grilse” by the thousands. Others have straight hawgs, but lower numbers. Their native range is the North Atlantic with their surviving strongholds being Eastern Canada, up and around through Iceland and the Russian Kola Peninsula, and down into Norway and the UK. The main season throughout the range starts in spring, as soon as it ices out up north and runoff calms down some. The fish keep running right through the summer and into the fall. Just like steelhead fishing, adapt to the conditions. High, cold water in the spring may require sink tips and larger flies but as soon as the water drops and warms in early summer, get ready to skate them up or run wet flies on floating lines. Atlantic salmon can be very aggressive and when hooked go ballistic. Named Salmo Salar, the leaping salmon, they are notorious jumpers and can have blisteringly hot runs. One of them almost broke my thumb when it got whacked by my reel handle while my reel was literally smoking as a 25-pounder shot a tailout chute and hit the afterburners. 10 weights are a good idea with the big guys, you just never know when you are seriously going to need it.

Top Lodges to Target Atlantic Salmon: Iceland Pg. 54 s The Kola Russia Website s The Norwegian Flyﬁshers Club Norway Website s Gaspe’ Coastal Canada Pg. 37 s Blanda River

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SEA-RUN BROWN TROUT Unfortunately, these have been severely depleted in their native range. They once were very prolific in the North Atlantic, occupying the same rivers and range as the Atlantic salmon on the European side of the Atlantic ocean. Sea trout can still be found and targeted in Europe and all the way through the Kola, but even the most die hard sea trout anglers have told me they put in hundreds of hours of fishing at home every season in Europe for only a few fish over 10 lbs. Just not what it once was. Now, Iceland has the last strong population of these amazing fish in the North Atlantic. Browns were introduced to Argentina in the 1930's though and they adapted to become anadromous…now the island of Tierra del Fuego is known as the finest sea trout fishing on the planet. The Rio Grande River is home to a population of fish numbering over 60,000 returning adults annually and the largest specimens are knocking on the door of 40 pounds. They enter the rivers of Argentina in about November and fishing is predictably excellent by January and throughout the South American summer, until mid April. Just like the others, anglers need to adapt to conditions. Sink tips in higher water, and you can actually fish floating lines with great success when conditions are right. Time of day can also make you change dramatically. In lower water especially, you may be forced to fish very small nymphs on tips swung deep through the fish mid day, but as soon as the sun gets off the water they consistently take huge Intruder-type flies. Sea trout actually act like they are feeding and get furious for big flies as the light goes away. Big browns can fight hard too, I am always surprised at how much they jump compared to their resident counterparts...must be something in the saltwater. They can also take long, hard runs, but are notorious for bulldogging and staying down deep and pulling hard and heavy. Careful, as the big ones love finding structure to break you off.

Top Lodges to Target Sea-Run Brown Trout: Tierra Del Fuego, Argentina Pg. 56 s La Villa de Maria Behety Tierra Del Fuego, Argentina Pg. 57 s Battle Hill Lodge Iceland Pg. 55 s Estancia Maria Behety

People literally ask me this question every day…“Which one is the best?” There is no answer to that question, and there never will be. We just go chase them, anytime, anywhere…everywhere. I am a steelheader, through and through and without a shadow of a doubt, because of where I was born. But I have wandered a long way now and have discovered one truth, and that is this…My favorite anadromous ﬁsh species in the Grand Slam of Swing is the one that’s swimming in front of me, and my favorite anadromous river is the one that I'm standing in.

Gearing Up for Spey Fishing F O R M A N Y O F us, Spey ﬁshing is more than just a technique. It’s

a soul-searching relationship with the river. Unlike traditional single hand casting, Spey casting utilizes the water’s surface tension to load the rod, making it the ultimate tool for covering large water and also managing heavy sink tips. Stepping into this world requires a specific tactical kit designed for efficiency and grace. The Essential Gear List: Typically 12 to 15 feet in length, Spey rods provide the leverage needed to move massive amounts of line without the need of a backcast. For most rivers, a 7-weight or 8-weight rod is the gold standard for targeting steelhead and sea trout. For large salmon, both Atlantic and chinook, look for a 9 or 10 weight. s The Reel You need a reel with a large arbor big enough to hold the thick lines associated with Spey casting. It must be heavy enough to balance the long rod and have enough capacity for 200+ yards of backing. There is also the choice of the famous click and pawl reels that will scream when line is peeling off. s The Line System This is where it gets technical. Most modern anglers use a Skagit head (for heavy flies and sink tips) or a Scandi head (for delicate touch and surface presentations). s Running Line This thin diameter line sits behind your weighted head and allows for those breathtaking, long-distance “hero” casts. Your two choices are: a quality flat monofilament, or a thinner diameter coated running line if you struggle with dexterity. s Sink Tips For Scandi lines you can use poly leaders that will help make this line more versatile for presentations just under the surface. For a Skagit line you will want 10-12 ft sinking tips. Either full sink tips in different densities or the MOW-style tips with integrated float/sink sections. s The Rod

Equipping yourself with the right gear transforms a giant river into an accessible target zone to pursue the river's largest anadromous ﬁsh. Once your tackle is balanced, the focus shifts from what your equipment will be to the soulsatisfying swing of the ﬂy.

Now, go ﬁnd them. I’ll help. Justin Miller Fly Fishing Guide FFI Certiﬁed Casting Instructor

Justin Miller photos

Matt Sprecher photo

Travis Or tiz photo

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2/3 Introduction 8/7/26 3:22 PM Page 1

ALASKA KINGS ON THE SWING

Chinook“King”Salmon We represent the finest riverside lodges in our 49th state! C H I N O O K S A L M O N (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) is the largest species of Pacific salmon, in the genus Oncorhynchus. Its common name is derived from the Chinookan peoples. Other vernacular names for the species include king, Quinnat, Tsumen, spring, blackmouth, and Tyee, and the Latin scientific name is the Russian common name chav-wee-cha (чавыча). Chinook are anadromous fish native to the North Pacific Ocean and the rivers of western North America, ranging from California to Alaska, as well as Asian rivers from northern Japan to the Palyavaam

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River in Arctic northeast Siberia. They have been introduced to other parts of the world, including New Zealand and Chile, Patagonia. Finding rivers that are good for swinging for kings is the trick. Chinook swim many rivers but finding the ones where the fish hold in moving water that is not too deep and relatively close to the sea are the ingredients for success. Alaska is home to the best of these rivers, with the perfect holding water in which to chase these monster anadromous fish.

Pat Pendergast photo

Arian Stevens photos

Lava Creek Lodge T H I S S M A L L O U T P O S T lodge resides on the Aleutian Peninsula

of Alaska, south/southwest of Bristol Bay, Alaska. It accommodates a maximum of eight guests during king season. It is custom-tailored for the serious salmon angler who values remote and nearly untouched water. A perfect setting for swing fishing for kings. The chinook salmon fishing at Lava Creek Lodge is classic down and across swing-fishing with a double-handed rod or appropriate single-handed stick. In some situations, especially for this type of fishing, a double-handed rod is a better tool. The rivers fished are not fast or terribly deep, and usually light sink-tips are all you need to get your fly into the correct water column. Additionally, the rivers are not terribly wide, so long and difficult casts are not needed.

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This is a pristine destination in a wild and beautiful place, with fishing that gets very little outside pressure. The lodging is quite comfortable, and the fishing superb. With so few anglers, the fish remain happy and aggressive to the fly, meaning plenty of fish hooked daily. It definitely rates as one of the finest king fly fishing destinations on the planet! lava creek lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$10,400

s Mid June through late July

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Hoodoo Sportfishing T H E H O O D O O L O D G E season kicks

off in mid-June, with the first waves of king (chinook) salmon flooding into the river estuary, and pushing their way up into the river. From the lodge down to saltwater is only about 8 miles of flat water, which the fish move through quickly, arriving to the lower holding pools just above the lodge in just a matter of hours; often, the fish you catch one day were swimming in the ocean the day before! From the lodge upstream to the river's headwater lake is about 25 miles of prime fly fishing water. The best king water tends to be in the lower 12 or so miles upstream of the lodge, comprised of deeper, moderate speed, gravel-bottomed pools...perfect king holding water. The king salmon (and chum, silver and sockeye salmon) program is based

around jet boat access, which includes the lower half of this small river. This mileage is broken up into various beats, with anglers normally seeing new water on most days of their stay. The river is dense with great kingholding water, and its small size, coupled with a solid run of fish make it one of the most amazing salmon fisheries we have ever experienced. Unlike many other destinations where you fish in huge rivers, at Hoodoo you have relatively short, 50-70 foot casts, covering modest-sized pools filled with fish ready to intercept your swung flies.

Brian Donaghy photos

hoodoo sportfishing s 7 Night / 6 Day pkg.

$10,800 Kings

s Mid June through early July s Mid Aug. through late Sept.

$10,800 Silvers

Hoodoo’s Sandy River Lodge HOODOO

L O D G E ’ S small outpost

lodge on the Sandy River is customtailored for serious king salmon and steelhead anglers who love swing fishing for dime-bright fish over fancy accommodations. With only three double rooms, six anglers get the pick of the litter of the best of the lower Sandy River pools and runs, accessed via a very short run in the lodge’s jet boats. There is even great water available right in front of the lodge, for those who never get enough angling time! The guides are great, food tasty, and the fishing world-class. Arguably, one of the most consistent wild chinook salmon and steelhead fisheries in Alaska, with anglers routinely hooking 3 - 5 of these chrome bruisers a day on the swung fly.

Hooking and landing that many chinook salmon is work and you’ll return to the lodge weary of battling the largest Pacific salmon in the world, but satisfied and with a smile on your face. The Sandy is a low gradient, relatively shallow and small river – heavy sink tip lines are not needed to be successful. This is not a fishery where you have to sling 500-grain shooting heads all day and destroy your body. This is light-tip fishing on easy-to-cast fly lines in a very userfriendly wading river. hoodoo’s sandy river lodge $12,400 Kings s Mid June through mid July s 7 Night / 6 Day pkg. $13,400 Steelhead s Late September through mid-October

Jason James photo

s 7 Night / 6 Day pkg.

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phone

800-669-3474

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BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA STEELHEAD

Home of the Giants The sea-run trout of the Pacific Northwest are one of the most treasured prizes in our sport. The Fly Shop has access to limited space at the most popular spots in British Columbia. F O R T H O S E of us in Northern California, the Home of the Giants has something

Babine Steelhead Lodge

to do with peanuts and cracker jacks and black and orange shirts. But in the world of steelhead that title belongs to BC. Nowhere else in the world does a decent cast and a well tempoed swing have a chance to land the biggest steelhead of your life. The majority of these storied rivers are tributaries of the Skeena, the trophy steelhead super highway. With the fingers of this steelhead expressway stretching out to the east across the vast forest land of western Canada, this is where the lore of giant steelhead began. Since Lani Waller and 3M collaborated on a how-to video on the Babine, other tributaries of the Skeena have proven to be just as epic in their own way. Rivers like the Bulkley, Morice, Kispiox and the Sustut offer the Spey fisherman a dream of 20pound, heart-stopping freight trains ready to make your pre-war Hardy scream. The Fly Shop has access to some of the best dates at the finest lodges in the region and each year we send some anglers back, and also offer new anglers the chance at one of these incredible specimens. The following are some of our favorite lodges in the Home of the Giants.

F I S H I N G T H E mighty Babine River is a steelhead experience you will never forget. This is one of the greatest rivers on the face of the Earth, hands down. If you ask any hard-core steelheader to list the best rivers on the planet, the Babine will be at the top of the short list. It represents the ultimate BC experience, for some of the biggest, wildest steelhead that have ever swam upstream. This is the place to make it all happen! Each day anglers are rotated on different sections of the river so that every session is a fresh, exciting new adventure. Days are long as the guides know the importance of covering as much water as possible to get the most out of your trip. Accommodations at the camp are cabin-style, with 2 guests per cabin. Comfortable with cozy beds and linens.

babine steelhead lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$8,779

Bulkley Basecamp B U L K L E Y B A S E C A M P is a simple, comfortable steel-

head camp built for the anglers who put the ﬁshing ﬁrst. The camp is perfectly located in the middle of the Bulkley system, which makes for minimal travel time to the boat launches, whether you’re fishing the upper or lower river. Steelhead on the Bulkley average 8-12 pounds, with chromers up to and exceeding 20 pounds caught on a semi-regular basis. The first fish arrive in August, and by the 1st of September, top quality fly fishing is in full swing. Accommodations at Bulkley Basecamp are very comfortable. The heavy-duty canvas wall tents (double occupancy) more than keep you warm and dry, even in the later season. These wall tents are equipped with comfortable beds, heavy-duty bedding, and wood stoves for a goods nights rest. bulkley basecamp s 6 Night / 6 Day package

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$7,235

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Copper Bay Lodge C O P P E R B A Y L O D G E prides itself on having assembled an elite guide staff that possesses the instructional skills and knowledge to ensure a memorable and successful trip! Located on the island of Haida Gwaii, more commonly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands. The winter steelhead of Haida Gwaii average around 12 pounds and have the potential to tip the scales over 20. If you are looking to hook top quality winter steelhead, there is no better place to consider. The Haida Gwaii archipelago has many rivers with healthy runs of steelhead. The top 5 are within 40

minutes of the lodge, and the largest – the Yakoun just over an hour. With all of these amazing rivers within easy striking distance, something is always in shape, no matter the conditions. Having different rivers of different sizes gives you the ﬂexibility to adapt to any weather. Limited to only 4 anglers each week, guests feel as though they have the entire archipelago to themselves. copper bay lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$7,575

Frontier Steelhead Experience M A G N I F I C E N T sea-going trout enter their natal Skeena drainage in late July, and move upstream into the clear headwaters of the Bulkley River by the middle of August. Fresh ﬁsh continue to accumulate in the river right through the end of October and into early November. Bulkley River steelhead average an honest 12 pounds and the river always has the potential to have the highest ﬁsh count in BC. If you are looking to get some of the best action in swinging, and fast-track your learning curve with the swing method, the Bulkley and Morice drainage is the spot. There is no

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better river system with the potential to hook as many steelhead in a week in the entire Pacific Northwest. The accommodations may very well qualify as the nicest lodge on the planet. Completed in 2010, it is absolutely magnificent. Built for luxury on the banks of one of the finest steelhead rivers on Earth. Each room has a king-sized bed, comfortable mattresses with fresh linens and comforters, and a private bathroom with shower and a heated floor. frontier steelhead experience $9,005

s 7 Night / 6 Day package

Skeena Spey T H E S T E E L H E A D in the lower Skeena River are something to write home about. Down in the water around Terrace you get ﬁrst crack at all of the ﬁsh headed to the most famous steelhead rivers in the world, like the Kispiox, Sustut, Babine and the Bulkley… but they are still chrome-bright down here. There is no better chance in the steelhead world for you to get spooled by a silver bolt of lightning. The wild steelhead of the Skeena River are legendary. Whether spring, summer or fall there’s a season to target steelhead here. The main steelhead season on the Skeena is the

summer run, starting in mid-to-late July and running to the ﬁrst part of November. If skating a surface ﬂy to raise a steelhead is your dream or favorite method of pursuing them, you'll want to reserve dates at the beginning of the season through the middle of September. The warmer waters keep the steelhead active and looking up! Accommodations are comfortable A-frame cabins that were recently remodeled. skeena spey s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$8,195 CAD

Suskeena Lodge S U S K E E N A L O D G E , on the Sustut River in Northern British Columbia, is relatively unknown except among a core group of fanatics that prowl BC every year looking for giant steelhead. The Sustut River is regarded as one of the finest “Big Fish” steelhead fisheries on Earth. If you are looking to break the 20-pound mark, there is no better river to swing a fly through. And the ridiculous benchmark of 30 pounds has even been bested here. This is where you come in search of the biggest steelhead of your life.

Suskeena Lodge uses ﬁxed-wing aircraft to access this remote nirvana. There is no public road access at all into the Sustut drainage. One other lodge shares this water, but without pressure from the public, there is more than enough water to keep you in the best trophy steelhead riﬄes, runs and pools in BC. With only 9 anglers, the atmosphere is just right. In addition to the bathrooms in each cabin, there is an additional wash house with three showers. suskeena lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$8,500–$8,900

Space is very limited for all of these lodges and camps, so we highly recommend getting your name on the list as early as possible. Many of these lodges offer a first right of refusal policy to the guests from the previous year, so getting your name on the list could give you the first opportunity for any open dates. w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

phone

800-669-3474

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I C E L A N D ’ S AT L A N T I C S A L M O N

ICELAND’S BROWN TROUT

Long Valley Lodge

The Highlands

T H E B L A N D A R I V E R is one of the longest rivers in Iceland, roughly 125 kms (78 miles) with roughly 65 kms (40 miles) of it being fishable water. The salmon season on the Blanda begins in early June on the lower part of the river, while trout fishing opens in May on the tidal beat just above the junction, as well as on the upper beats. As the salmon runs increase later in the season, the upper beats open for salmon fishing - peaking in July. There are 5 different types of freshwater species in the Blanda system. The Atlantic salmon, brown trout, sea-run trout, arctic char, and sea-run arctic char. The Svartá River is a gem, a tributary of the legendary Blanda River. This exclusive river, limited to four rods, has 13 miles of crystal-clear water for anglers to explore. Long Valley Lodge has 12 double en-suite rooms, large deck, hot tub and sauna, and good international cuisine. This coupled with world-class salmon angling makes the Blanda one of the top rivers in Iceland today.

H I G H L A N D S are truly the heart of Iceland, with their unyielding beauty and spectacular scenery. The vast wilderness – mountains, deserts, canyons, lakes and rivers – demonstrate the powerful forces of fire and ice which have shaped the landscape on this volcanic island over centuries. Amidst all of this beauty are brown trout and arctic char, peacefully cruising the gin-clear streams of the Highlands as they have done since the last ice age. Anglers will fish both Kaldakvísl and Tungnaá rivers. They have roughly 28 miles of river between the two rivers and countless tributaries and lakes as well. So there is a lot of water to fish as well as plenty of variety. They rotate anglers based on what areas are fishing well and on the style of fishing they want to do.

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the highlands s Custom packages available s June through August

long valley lodge s Custom packages available s Early May through late August

Erik Argotti photo

Justin Miller photos

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ICELAND’S BROWN TROUT

Battle Hill Lodge

Lake Thingvallavatn

I C E L A N D O F F E R S some of the finest sea-run brown trout fishing in the world in historic, picturesque locations that will give fly anglers an experience of a lifetime. Renowned for its striking beauty and unique landscape, much of this region was carved out by one of the deadliest super eruptions in history. There are two seasons to fish out of Battle Hill Lodge, fall and spring. The fall is the most predictable in terms of fishing and runs from late August through early October. The spring season goes from April 15 May 15. The sea-trout run from late July through the last day of the season. All rivers in Iceland are 100% private, there is no public access. For decades, the Vatnamót, Fossálar and Geirlandsá have been closed off from outside fishing by a local fishing club. Now this lease is under the supervision of our Icelandic partners. This private access guarantees you will be swinging your fly over bright sea-run brown trout, each and every fishing session. All three rivers and the most productive water will belong to you and 9 other guests. The lodge is a renovated farmhouse on a historic farm in the southeast of Iceland. Updated with a clean style and modern amenities, Battle Hill Lodge can sleep up to 10 guests in 4 twin rooms and 2 single rooms spread out over two floors, with two and a half bathrooms. While here you will be alone in the world to enjoy the sound of silence. The garden outside offers great views. Directly out your front door, you can view the Brunahraun lava field.

L A K E T H I N G V A L L A V A T N is the largest lake in Iceland, just over 32 square miles and located only 40 minutes from Reykjavík. Lake Thingvallavatn in Iceland gives anglers access to the largest resident brown trout in the world. They can grow to a weight of over 30 pounds, and fish in excess of 20 pounds are frequently caught during the peak season. Abundant biomass in the lake provides lots of protein to grow these giant prehistoric ﬁsh. Sticklebacks and Artic char are their main diet. Bring your big streamers as this is the place to set your own record and make your fly fishing dreams come true! We have all caught brown trout in places where they were introduced in the past but many have never experienced catching these already wary ﬁsh in their native rivers and lakes. These browns have evolved in this isolation since the last ice age and are perfectly adapted to their environment. Fishing Lake Thingvallavatn provides you with the opportunity and challenge to hunt these monster trout on their terms. Fish Partner will be using the luxury Ion Hotel close to the lake for their lodging/food options to service their many beats on Lake Thingvallavatn.

Battle Hill Lodge photo

Erik Argotti photo

lake thingvallavatn s Custom packages available s Early April through late September Battle Hill Lodge photo

battle hill lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$8,400-$9,975

s April - late May & late August - October

The Highlands photo phone

800-669-3474

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2/3 Introduction 8/7/26 3:59 PM Page 1

TIERRA DEL FUEGO’S

Sea-Run BrownTrout Tierra del Fuego is hands down the home of the most iconic sea-run brown trout fishery on earth! U P with a big, sea-run brown is an experience that’s hard to describe. Most fish grab a nymph or streamer on the swing and it just stops. It is seldom a violent strike, and your first thought is it’s a snag. But the Rio Grande is something akin to a giant underwater gravel bar with very few snags. The bottom’s perfect to wade and there are few rocks or boulders big enough to trip on, so it’s rare to hang up. Then, while your angling hard drive is processing this, the “snag” shakes its head. It’s time to set the hook and plant your feet, ‘cause the bell has just rung in this fight.

HOOKING

While success has some correlation with skills and conditions, most fly fishermen on the Rio Grande land between 3 and 5 fish every day, occasionally hooking many more. In fact, every cast on the Rio Grande has the potential to hook a true river monster, and the odds are high that most fly rodders at one of these lodges will land one or more worldclass trophies during their stay. Most anglers dream of hooking, and landing, a big trout and no other river on Earth makes those dreams happen more often than the Rio Grande.

Pat Pendergast photo

Estancia Maria Behety Lodge EVERYTHING

A B O U T the Estancia Maria Behety

Lodge revolves around the Menendez family’s personal guarantee and total commitment to offering the finest fly fishing experience in the Americas. The guides are renowned for both their intimate knowledge of the Rio Grande and consistent success in bringing monster sea trout to the bank. The Estancia Maria Behety is massive (275,000acres) and borders the lion’s share of the best water on the Rio Grande, with over 50 kilometers of river and 102 named pools. No matter what weather, river levels, or fishing conditions, this much water guarantees you will be swinging your fly over bright sea-run brown trout, each and every fishing session. No outfitter on the river has better or more productive water than Estancia Maria Behety!

The lodge is a comfortable and low-key fishing lodge with a club-like atmosphere. This is a destination designed for relaxation and an easy pace, with the emphasis on the fishing. If you want to show up for supper in shorts and flip-flops, no big deal – it’s all good. For those anglers wanting a totally chill lodge to fish from, Estancia Maria Behety Lodge is the place. estancia maria behety lodge $7,900 - $10,300 s December through late April s 7 Night / 6 Day package

Estancia Maria Behety photos

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La Villa de Estancia Maria Behety VILLA,

at the entrance to the 275,000-acre Estancia Maria Behety, was once regarded as among the most beautiful ranch mansions in all of South America. Its guests brought fame to the Rio Grande, and their stories and laughter ﬁlled the villa until it was gutted by ﬁre in the late 70’s. After painstaking restoration by local craftsmen and the addition of every modern convenience, the Menendez family home is once again welcoming angling guests. The lodge accommodates just six anglers a week featuring every imaginable amenity you could want. Single private rooms, jacuzzi tubs, a 9,000 bottle wine cellar, open bar, and a billiard room. We don’t know of a finer and more well-appointed fishing lodge in South America. Guests share more than 102 pools with Estancia Maria Behety Lodge.

The big sea-run brown trout start to return to the pools of the Rio Grande in large numbers around Thanksgiving. Less than a month later the river is loaded with fish and it is estimated that by the first day of each New Year, nearly 80% of the return has reached their annual family reunion. That translates into more than a thousand monster trout per river mile. The fish herd up in the best lower river pools, though hundreds more of these sea trout continue to pour into the Rio Grande on every high tide, twice a day until sometime in May. la villa de estancia maria behety s 7 Night / 6 Day package $8,900 - $11,500 s January through March

Val Atkinson photo

Chris King photo

Kau Tapen Lodge T H I S I S W H E R E it all started on the Rio Grande.

Kau Tapen was the first fishing lodge on the Río Grande, opening its doors in 1984. Its name means “House of Fishing” in the Ona language and here, in the heart of the Río Grande watershed, live some of the best pools on the river. Kau Tapen embodies this fly fishing experience and to hundreds of anglers, it is their fishing home. On the river, short walks and shallow wading are the norm. Single or two-handed rods are both very effective. Skate a bomber over a resting lie, drift a nymph next to a cut-bank, or swing a big streamer at dusk for searun trout you’ve only imagined in your dreams. The Rio Grande is an extremely easy to wade river with a gravel bottom and a soft, even flow. There may not be another river on earth that is as easy to navigate, and also harbors anadromous fish of this caliber.

Guests at Kau Tapen will enjoy a meticulously-built and ﬁnished single level lodge that is comfortable, warm, inviting and eﬃcient; designed exclusively with anglers in mind. All the accommodations are private, single occupancy rooms, nicely decorated and featuring a spacious private bathroom with a glass walk-in shower, Jacuzzi tub and large vanity and sink area. kau tapen lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$12,950 - $14,950

s January through March

Kau Tapen photo

Villa María Lodge V I L L A M A R Í A is the second of the De Las Carreras family lodges to open on the Río Grande, after Kau Tapen, and has offered small, private groups exciting ﬁshing on some of the most productive pools in the lower river since 1994. Unlike Kau Tapen, which is located near the middle river beats, Villa María offers anglers ﬁrst crack at newly-arrived sea trout on the lower pools of the Río Grande. The Rio Grande is known for short walks to the pools from the guide trucks and easy, shallow wading. Two-handed rods give you a distinct advantage on the broad pools of the lower river, but single-handers can be an effective tool as well, in the hands of an accomplished caster.

Though it appears to be a traditional ranch structure on the outside, make no mistake that Villa María Lodge is a modern, comfortable fishing lodge in every way. There are six en-suite double and single rooms, very nice furnishings, and spacious living areas. Delightful meals are prepared daily by the lodge’s dedicated chef, so you will fish each day well fortified for battle with the Río Grande’s giant trout. villa maría lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$12,950 to $14,950

s January through March

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Lean Herrainz photo s

phone

800-669-3474

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A R G E N T I N A , TA N Z A N I A , B R A Z I L , B O L I V I A ,

COLOMBIA

Jungle

The Apex of Adventure Angling The Amazon Rainforest is huge, blanketing 9 South American nations with 390 billion trees. Its river system springs to life in the Andes, gathering strength from a spiderweb of tributaries in Ecuador, Colombia, Bolivia and Peru, before massing in Brazil. This immense network accounts for 25% of all fresh water on the face of the Earth and has more species of fish than there are in the entire Atlantic Ocean. This is the beating heart of jungle fly fishing. And then there are the jungle fisheries on the other side of the Pond, in the vast wilderness of Africa! Predictably, the equatorial belt in Africa is very similar in many regards to that of South America, but the 2 ecosystems have evolved completely isolated for millions of years, with totally different flora and fauna…and fish! It is here, in the world’s jungle rivers, where you will find the last frontier in fly fishing.

Mataveni photo

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email:

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ARGENTINA

Dorados On The Fly The birthplace of the passion, fever, and enthusiasm fueling the sport of dorado fishing is Argentina, and Ricardo “Pinti” Pinto is the most famous dorado outfitter in Latin America. “ P I N T I ” P I N T O and his guide staff are world-class professionals, with decades of experience fishing and guiding dorado all over South America. These guys are considered the best in the business and have developed the most popular flies and the most effective techniques used in this aspect of the sport. They are terrific communicators, coaches and fun to spend a day on the skiff with. They’ll fast-track you on the fly fishing tactics needed to become a successful dorado angler and you’ll learn something new every day. The Upper Rio Paraná is a large tail water system some 70 kilometers below the Yacireta Dam, where the river forms a substantial border between Argentina and Paraguay. Because the river is a tailwater (one of the largest on earth), water can oftentimes be clear with over six feet of visibility offering excellent and exciting sight-fishing opportunities. For those that have seen the lower Paraná or the Rio de la Plata near Argentina’s domestic airport, it is hard to believe that this is the same river. Your main quarry on the Rio Paraná will be explosive golden dorado up to about 25 pounds, but most will be 5 to 10 pounds. This is one of the best destinations anywhere for dorado, but don’t let that distract you from the other unique angling opportunities available. Dorado in this area cohabit with exceptionally large Pacu (Argentina permit) that range from 8 to 25 pounds and Para Pita.

RICARDO

Guests are accommodated in a very well-appointed and spacious traditional Argentina-style lodge sitting right on the banks of the Paraná River, with spectacular views of the river and jungle environment surrounding this amazing waterway. Each two anglers share a large room complete with en-suite bathroom, air conditioning and all the amenities you would expect in a first-class fishing lodge. There are also private room options available. Meals are taken in the main dining room and fish stories are shared in the full bar. The rooms are classic Argentine estancia accommodations, with a bit of aristocracy thrown in. Each has airconditioning and a private bath. Meals are quintessential Argentine fare with copious amounts of good wine, and in the warmer months are served outdoors on the expansive lawn. There is a pool for a mid-day retreat from the heat. dorados on the fly s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$7,000

s Shorter trip options available s September through May

Dorado on the Fly photos phone

800-669-3474

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ARGENTINA

Pirá Lodge Friendly and savvy, bilingual guides with years of experience stalking and fishing golden dorado. PIRÁ LODGE, located on the southern shore of the Iberá Marsh, is a world-class operation that offers more than great guides, great fly fishing and great accommodations. The Iberá Marsh is an enormous National Park, roughly twice as large as the Everglades. In the native language, Ibera means sparkling water; and the massive spider web of lagoons and slow moving streams and rivers are exactly that. Sight-fishing for these ultraaggressive, acrobatic apex predators in aquarium-clear water is the norm in the marsh, and what separates Ibera from the other, often muddy rivers in that part of the world. Pirá guests pursue mean-tempered golden dorado, with state-of-the-art Hell’s Bay flats skiffs that are ideal for skimming through the shallow basins and navigating the twisting, winding creeks of the marsh before it eventually flows into the Corrientes River. The guides are extremley dedicated fly fisherman, and tuned into the complex fishery and rat maze of waterways. Pirá is the perfect angling and nonangling destination, suitable for couples as well as the entire family with a variety of interests. An abundance of

flora and fauna make for any naturalist’s and fisherman’s dream destination, with over 350 different bird species, and 85 mammals and 70 reptiles (including anaconda, otters and howler monkeys). The facilities, inground pool, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, luxurious accommodations and world-class cuisine make this a wonderful retreat for every family member. Pirá Lodge is a top-notch facility, deluxe by any standards, and will certainly satiate those anglers and nonanglers looking for an opulent vacation. Gourmet food, world-class wine, deluxe lodging and old-world service make this holiday a special experience for guests and is why so many folks return year after year. If you love exotic fish that deliver violent strikes and athletic jumping displays, you need to venture south to the lovely 3,000-acre estancia at Pirá and try your skills on dorado. pirá lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package s October through April

Pirá Lodge photos

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email:

$7,950

s Shorter stay options available

i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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ARGENTINA

Golden Dorado Cruiser GOLDEN

DORADO

CRUISER

utilizes a mobile mothership to keep anglers in the prime water throughout their fishing week. This is an exciting dorado fishing destination located either on the middle Paraná River or lower down on the Paraná Delta, a 4,600-square mile natural marsh with thousands of lagoons, channels, backbays and river banks, perfect habitat for dorado. Mobility is the key to this fishery as the mothership keeps you within easy striking distance of fresh water and happy, willing and aggressive fish. The dorado fishing here is simple and long casts are not needed - 30 to 50 feet will keep you in fish all day. This is a

perfect fishery for folks new to fly fishing and/or dorado fishing and that predicate a successful trip on numbers of fish landed. Expect to land many dorado in the 2-7 pound range. And larger fish, up to 10 pounds and over are an everyday possibility. This is an all-inclusive package that includes everything – open bar, roundtrip ground transfers, guided fishing and gourmet meals. . . the works; outfitted by one of the most respected and successful outfitters in Argentina. golden dorado cruiser s 7 Night / 6.5 Day package

$5,400

s Shorter stay options available

Paraná River Lodge photo

s Year round

Golden Dorado Cruiser photos

Paraná River Lodge P A R A N Á R I V E R L O D G E is located in the birthplace of Argentina dorado fishing, the Middle Paraná River and the incredible San Javier Delta – a maze of channels, lagoons, and side creeks. It’s a place full of life, where every day on the water feels different: dorados smashing bait at lagoon outlets, pirá pitá sipping dries on the surface, and wolf fish exploding between lily pads. Dorado are among the finest gamefish on the planet – their beast-mode aggressive and acrobatic behavior make dorado one of the finest freshwater species to pursue with a fly rod. And as a perfect add-on, dove hunting in the Santa Fe Province of Argentina offers high-

THE

Paraná River Lodge photo

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volume, year-round opportunities resulting from the region’s fertile farmlands that produce sunflower, soybean and corn that ensure a constant, year-round food supply that allows the dove population to thrive and reproduce 4-5 times a year. Combine a top gamefish with worldclass lodging and gourmet meals served with some of the finest wines of Argentina, and add to that some amazing high-volume dove shooting, top-notch guides, and first-class fishing skiffs and you have yourself a solid castand-blast program. paraná river lodge s 5 Night / 4 Day package

$3,500

s November through March

800-669-3474

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AFRICA

Tanzania Tigerfish The Ruhudji and Mynera Rivers are hands down the most productive rivers for trophy tigerﬁsh!

African Waters photo

Terr y Jepsen photo

T H E M N Y E R A and Ruhudji Rivers are a true fishing wilderness. Between the camps on the two rivers, anglers have access to over 75 miles of pristine river habitat, all of it protected and home not only to the world’s greatest population of trophy tigerfish, but also yellowfish, vundu catfish, as well as a plethora of wild game (including puku, warthog, hartebeest, zebra, eland, bushbuck, crocodiles, hippopotamus, elephants, and more) and birds (including Pels Fishing Owl, Palmnut Vultures, Narina Trogans, etc.). This is a true African Wilderness Safari on the “Dark Continent” as well as a world-class fishing adventure – two trips in one! Tanzania is home to one of the largest populations of trophy tigerfish in the world. In the past, a trophy tigerfish was over 10 pounds. This benchmark has been shattered with the average fish in this system at just under 8 pounds. Here fisherman have a real opportunity of landing tigerfish of over 20 pounds, with shots at multiple trophy fish on a daily basis. Dhalla Camp (on the Mnyera River) and Samaki Camp (on the Ruhudji River) offer the adventurous fly fisherman a unique African fly fishing safari. Tented bush camps and wooden cabins, erected each season, ensure that

the African safari experience is as much a part of this trip as the trophy tigers you can expect to encounter on the rivers. This is how Hemingway and Ruark saw Africa – proper and in the bush. Now you can experience the same. Guests at Trophy Tigerfish Safari are well-cared for from start to finish with the expert teams of Kilombero North Safaris and African Waters. Kilombero North Safaris own, run, and manage the fishing camps on the Mnyera and Ruhudji Rivers and take care of all catering, ground transfers, charter flights, camp vehicles, boats, and camp accommodations. The African Waters team of international guides makes sure all guests fishing at Kilombero North Safari’s Dhalla Camp experience worldclass guiding. Their commitment to sustainable and responsible fisheries management is respected worldwide, and ensures all fishing guests experience the best that the fisheries of the Mnyera and Ruhudji Rivers have to offer. Let a team of experts take care of all the details and logistics, and relax and enjoy the splendor of the African Bush. tanzania tigerfish s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$13,750 (2027) 12,950 (2026)

s August through November

Mark Murray photo

Brent Poultney photo

Greg Maxwell photo

email:

i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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Brazil

The rain forest jungles of the Brazilian Amazon are perhaps the last, truly wild and unexplored region of the world. Nearly 1/3 of all the freshwater in the entire world starts in the massive Amazon basin, which is home to countless exotic species of fish. A select few of these are exciting gamefish will readily take a well-presented fly. Partnerships with the Brazilian government and local indigenous tribes and communities has started to open up more and more incredible destinations, deep within the heart of the Amazon. These trips often combine unforgettable cultural experiences with spectacular wildlife, all in a remote, beautiful setting with strange fish of all shapes and sizes. Many of these are fish that will strip the rod from your hand on the strike, or bend it until it shatters. They’ll totally test both you and your best equipment, while the people you meet and sights you take in will amaze you.

There literally is a jungle out there… come explore it with us!

Lucas DeZan photo w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

phone

800-669-3474

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BRAZIL

Sergio Macedo photo

Brian O’Keefe photo

The Rio Marié The Rio Marié boasts the largest population of giant peacock bass – “Cichla temensis”, ﬁsh up to and in excess of 20 pounds – of any river in Brazil! Dani Bayer photo

Untamed Angling photo

Brian O’Keefe photo

THE RIO MARIÉ encompasses more than 600 miles of river, tributaries and lagoons, the largest exclusive sport fishing reserve in all of Amazonia. That much fishing water, combined with a mobile state-of-the-art fishing yacht allows for better managment of the fishery and to rest literally hundreds of miles of river each week. This results in happy and unpressured fish – fish that like to eat. Rio Marié is outfitted by the “Jungle Guys”, Untamed Angling, the most experienced and recognized jungle outfitters in the world; the same fanatic anglers that discovered Tsimane, the dorado fishing destination in Bolivia. These folks are pros with years of operating experience in the jungle. The management and staff will take care of all the logistics, support and mechanics of the trip; all you have to do is fish as hard as you can and enjoy. Just because you’re in the most remote part of the Amazon jungle doesn’t mean you have to be uncomfortable. Anglers at Rio Marié are accommodated aboard the “Untamed Amazon”, a state-of-the-art yacht that boasts every imaginable amenity you would expect in a topnotch fishing lodge. Spacious suites email:

with full bathrooms, air-conditioning, a large window, along with fine cuisine that is prepared by a trained chef. You sleep comfortably at night after dining on world-class food and will be wellrested and fueled for the following full day of fishing for trophy peacock bass. You will fish from custom fishing skiffs that feature huge front and back fishing decks, an electric trolling motor wirelessly controlled by a seasoned guide, and poling platforms that allow for stealthy approaches to fish. The skiffs are powered by 90-horsepower outboards and are plenty fast to access hundreds of miles of river during your fishing week. These skiffs are specifically designed for fly fishers and are the ultimate in comfort, function and safety and allow anglers to fish longer, harder and more effectively each and every day. Each of these weekly angling adventures begins in Manaus with a comfortable, scenic, four-hour, 500mile+, amphibious Cessna Grand Caravan flight above the rainforest. rio marié s 7 Night / 6 Day package s 7 Night / 6 Day package s August through November

i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

$8,490 (2026) 8,790 (2027)

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BRAZIL

Pirarucú The prehistoric behemoths of the jungle A R A P A I M A A R E monster fish that often weigh hundreds of pounds and are protected in all but two fisheries in Brazil and Guyana. Sight-fishing for arapaima, the largest scaled freshwater fish in the world (up to 9´ long and 440 pounds) is way up near the top of the list of jungle angling experiences. These colorful, powerful monsters hunt as singles, in pairs, or even schools. If they’re there, you’ll see them splashing on the surface. Searching these lakes, channels and rivers is very similar to hunting flats and mangroves for rolling tarpon. When mature, they’re big and have no known predators. When hooked they go ballistic, obviously angry that anything would challenge their alpha role. More than just big, arapaima are strong and their battle is usually punctuated by repeated jumps and powerful runs. Mamirauá is a massive Brazilian wetland and flooded forest in the heart of the Amazon. This maze of interconnected lakes and lagoons is a World Heritage Site, a national treasure where a vibrant population of arapaima share their jungle habitat with arowana, tambaqui, peacock bass, red-bellied piranha, and oscars. All of them will attack a fly with abandon and add up to a recipe for a diverse and exciting angling holiday.

Giant arapaima have been landed up to 330 pounds. The total number of juveniles tipping the scales between 20 to 60 pounds is impressive. There’s regular flight service from Manaus and packages marry perfectly with the return flight trips to the Rio Marié, which stop briefly for a refueling in Tefé on their return to Manaus. pirarucú lodge Pirarucú floating lodge is located in the heart of a spiderweb of beautiful, breathtaking creek-connected lagoons. Pirarucú is rated as one of the top five birding locations in the Amazon and fly fishing guests share comfortable lodge accommodations with an interesting multinational group of eco-tourists and birdwatchers. Late August through November is the best time to sample the fishing in this vast Amazon reserve. Fly fishing guides are surprisingly good, arapaima fishing is action-packed, and the native Indian staff add a fascinating cultural accent. Guests are serenaded to sleep each night by the sounds of the vast forest and awakened early each morning by a cacophony of the feathered inhabitants of the surrounding refuge and National Parkland. Float plane flights returning to Manaus from the Rio Marié re-fuel near Pirarucú, making for easy and convenient packages to combine. s Fishing package

Rodrigo Salles photo

$3,995-$6,850

s September through November Michael Carnaci photo

Rafael Costa photo

Brian O’Keefe photo w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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BRAZIL

Xingu An incredibly diverse ﬁshery, featuring opportunities to target multiple different species on the ﬂy. Untamed Angling photo

Marcos Hlace photo

T H E X I N G U R I V E R lies deep in the heart of the Amazon. It flows swiftly over granite bedrock and runs clear from its confluence with the Iriri for over 150 miles. It is a broad, shallow, combination of riffles, pools, oxbows, channels, lakes, lagoons, rapids, and waterfalls, with an amazing variety of gamefish. Anglers will often see fish sipping and rolling on the surface like trout – including insect-eating pacu and matrinxã – while aggressive predator species like peacock bass, bicuda, and trairao (wolf fish) lurk along the deep edges, crevices, and beneath structure ready to ambush your flies. While diversity in targets is the focus at Xingu, the payara – the worldfamous “Vampire Fish”, whose well earned reputation as the hardest hitting, strongest fighting fish in the Amazon Basin is a must target for every angler. You will want to come into this adventure with an open, exploratory mind. And, most importantly, respect for the land of the Kayapó warriors. It is

their territory and river, protected by their “warrior spirit” for centuries. Anglers at Xingu have exclusive access to a huge, protected area. The Xingu River and its tributaries are located inside the Mekragnoti Indian Territory and the ESEC Terra do Meio Ecological Reserve, an environment of more than 800 kilometers of rivers and streams, completely un-impacted from the modern world. Most of this area has never been seen, let alone ﬁshed, by outsiders! Anglers at Xingu will have the opportunity to meet the tribe, and to experience and particupate in their ritual body painting. Most of the very few visitors to Xingu return home with a complicated mix of both exceptional angling and cultural memories to last a lifetime. xingu s 8 Night / 6 Day package

$6,490

s May through early July

Pat Ford photo

Daniel Coimbra photos email:

i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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BRAZIL

Kendjam This startling Amazon tributary is unique in nature. It’s a crystal-clear fly fishing jungle jackpot loaded with exotic varieties of species including peacock bass that share the pools, riffles, and runs with ten other red-hot river targets! I R I R I R I V E R is a shallow, 800-mile long, fast-moving freestone river that courses over a granite and boulder streambed and runs absolutely transparent. It’s a one-of-a-kind Brazilian mountain fishery filled with fly-friendly fervent gamefish, including seldom-seen and less frequently caught varieties of many spectacularly-colored peacock bass, wolf fish, payara, matrinxa, pacu, bicuda, and more. The Iriri is a wet-wading, sight-casting fly fishing experience in what amounts to an enormous, clear, tropical aquarium in the middle of the Amazon. The Kendjam project protects freshwater rivers which represent the most prolific multi-species fisheries in the Amazon, and possibly on earth. This incredible variety of species has evolved in a perfectly-suited ecosystem – the amazing wealth of food that comes from the Amazon forest, combined with the life-giving minerals found in the rivers. Together they create a perfect habitat for zooplankton, the foundation of the food chain which allows for such an incredible diversity of fishes.

THE

Imagine yourself in a clear jungle river with many different options for unique, powerful Amazon species, many of which most anglers have never even heard of. You can fish in pools using big hopper patterns for 3-10 pound matrinxãs, or even the crazy curupete pacu (3-12 pounds) which eat algae and insect imitations and love fast water (and often jump when hooked). Next, exploring runs and flat areas for peacock bass (averaging 4 to 15 pounds), you begin hooking bicudas – a fast, barracuda-like freshwater predator that will crush your fly and burn your fingers when they run. The next day, hiking in the humid early morning air of the jungle you see fish eating off the surface like trout. What fish could they be? The powerful seringa pacu, which eat insects and can be fished with dries and nymphs! Like Xingu, anglers will have the opportunity to meet the tribe and participate in their ritual body painting.

Phil Davis photo

kendjam s 8 Night / 6 Day package

$7,950

s June through September Marcos Hlace photo

Lucas DeZan photos w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

phone

800-669-3474

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BRAZIL

Eco Lodge Home to over 20 species of tropical gameﬁsh. You’ll have the opportunity to add several new species to your list.

Adriano Gambarini photo

E C O F I S H I N G L O D G E is located at the confluence of Teles Pires and Juruena Rivers, where the majestic Tapajós River begins in Brazil. This exotic jungle destination boasts an exquisite floating lodge built of rich hardwoods, with 16 spacious airconditioned guest rooms, each with a private bath and riverfront patio. Anglers fish the Juruena, Teles Pires, and Tapajós Rivers and their tributaries, the Bararati and Aximari Rivers. In addition to these amazing Amazon basin rivers, you’ll have access to more than a hundred pristine lakes and lagoons in a jungle filled with some of the most exotic birds in the world. These waters are home to more than 20 species of tropical game fish, including piranha, jatuarana, brycon, bicuda, wolf fish, payara, arowana, jacundá, and two species of peacock bass. Among the many amenities included are laundry services, air conditioning, hot water in high-pressure showers, TV’s with all major American channels, VOIP telephone, satellite telephone for emergencies, and internet with WiFi. The air-conditioned dining room provides three meals a day, with a

Eco Lodge da Barra photos

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menu that is made up of traditional and regional cuisine. Most of the fruits and vegetables as well as chicken and eggs are produced exclusively for the lodge in a local village. There are few destinations in the Amazon that include all of the nearby fly fishing options or the exquisite level of accommodations and service found at Eco Lodge Don’t let the luxury fool you, this is a terrific fishing lodge. It’s an easy boat ride to sand bar flats and sight-fishing for peacock bass, or rapids sheltering huge payara. The quantity and quality of angling options in this region of the Amazon is staggering. Scarlet Macaws fly through the jungle canopy while you fish with your indigenous native guide, caiman float in the quiet waters, and jaguars prowl in the heart of darkness. Eco Lodge definitely gets The Fly Shop’s unconditional thumbs up. Our team of experts highly recommend it for the angler searching for 5-star comfort and fishing variety. eco fishing lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package s June through October

$6,200

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BRAZIL

Agua Boa One of only two Brazilian lodges dedicated to fly fishing only! W A T E R S of Agua Boa, under normal conditions, are crystal clear and offer sight-casting to cruising peacock bass as well as the elusive arowana as they glide across sandy bottomed shallows. Its waters flow out of the “mountains”' of northern Brazil, and during the dry season, the river runs low and clear. Once you have fished the crystal clear-waters of the Agua Boa, you will come to realize why this river is so unique and special. If you like to hunt your fish, sight-fish, in clear water for some of the strongest freshwater fish species in the world, then Agua Boa is right for you. There are an impressive amount of peacock bass, including significant numbers of the monster temensis variety and a near-endless supply of the smaller “butterfly” peacocks. Its white sand bottom and clarity make Agua Boa particularly well-suited to fly fishing, setting it apart from many other peaock destinations. Naturalists will appreciate that the Agua Boa River is bordered by a hardwood forest reaching hundreds of feet to the sky and is home to worldclass birdwatching.

THE

The lodge offers unrivaled comfort in the Amazon. Guests stay in airconditioned bungalows with two queen beds (options for single occupancy available), a sitting area, a porch overlooking the river, and private bath. The lodge has every amenity available including satellite TV, a well-furnished library, 24-hour electricity, game room, swimming pool, full bar, a wonderful indoor and outdoor dining room, ﬁne meals, cold drinks, and a top-notch facility. Breakfast is buffet-style, with a choice of hot and cold dishes, breads, pastries, cold meat, fresh fruit and cereals. In addition, fresh fruit juices and coffee are available. Lunch may be taken either at the lodge, where their chef will provide a cooked meal, or a packed lunch can be prepared in the morning for those who prefer to stay on the river all day. A three-course dinner, with wine, is served in the dining room each evening. The main course is a buffet, with a choice of several meat and ﬁsh dishes, all freshly prepared by the chef.

Val Atkinson photo

agua boa s 7 Night / 6.5 Day package

$7,925-$9,125 s Early October through March

Matt Harris photo w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

Agua Boa photos

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Gearing Up for the

Jungle

The Jungle is tough on gear. The only thing you can really count on is that the fish will try to break everything you own. G E A R I N G U P F O R T H E J U N G L E is pretty simple, similar to a saltwater trip. All you really need are a couple sets of light weight sun-clothes, a couple hats to keep the sun off your head, a pair of polarized sunglasses and your rods, reels, lines, ﬂies and tackle! And don’t forget the sunscreen!

Luggage / Duffel Bag

Reels

Packing is fairly easy on these trips, but we use the same luggage we use on every other fishing trip around the world. A water resistant duffel with wheels is always the best place to start. Lots of times, weight is the most important aspect as you’ll be flying in charter planes with strict weight restrictions (40-50lbs), so a lightweight duffel is important. But, we also need it to handle multiple fly rods, be soft-sided for small charter flights, wheeled for ease through the airport, and tough and water resistant to keep your stuff dry while it sits outside on a dirt landing strip.

Fly reels in the jungle have a strange position. Fish to fish, they can be extremely important, or absolutely useless. If you can get your quarry on the reel, you’ll want something that can stop a freight train. But if you have a pile of line at your feet from stripping, the reel's only job will be to balance the rod as your finger pretends it is a drag system, keeping your monster out of the wood. Hoping for the best for your fingers, we recommend a high-quality saltwater reel to do the work. s Abel SDS s Galvan Grip s Hatch Iconic s Hardy Fortuna Regent

s Patagonia Black Hole

Wheeled Duffel 100L s Fishpond Stormshadow Large Rolling Duffel

Fly Lines

Boat Bag / Hand Luggage

Aggressively-tapered fly lines, purposely built for the jungle, are the standard here, lines meant to cast big streamers and poppers. Regular freshwater and saltwater lines just won’t cut it. You will destroy your arm trying to cast a weighted #4/0 streamer, 800 times a day, with the wrong line. These new integrated shooting tapers have changed the game and were designed specifically for jungle fishing applications.

A great boat bag that doubles as your carry-on is a critical part of your packing system. Most of us here at the Shop prefer a waterproof backpack, but some folks prefer an actual boat bag, or simple stuff sack-style dry-bag. That just comes down to preference. If you go with a backpack, there are two options, roll-top or waterproof zippered. Here are a few that we recommend.

s SA Tropical Titan

s Fishpond Cutbank Gear Bag or Patagonia Great Divider

s SA Titan Jungle Clear

s Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Backpack

s SA Jungle Custom Tip

s Fishpond Wind River Roll-Top Backpack

Rods Quality fly rods are one of, if not the most important tools for any type of fishing. Depending on where you are going, you’ll want 8weight to 10-weight, 4-piece rods that are strong enough to handle the job. There are a few jungle rods on the market, or you can just use your saltwater rods with fighting butts, heavy-duty reel seats, and the proper muscle to cast big streamers and fight heavy fish. 9-foot rods are by far the best for distance and accuracy, both of which are important when targeting jungle fish. You’ll want to bring backup rods as well, as jungle fish make a living turning fly rods into kindling.

Leaders & Wire Leader material is a crucial part of your fly fishing kit. We don’t use delicately tapered leaders here; instead we use super strong level leader material. Typically 6 feet of 40 to 80 lb. fluoro will do it, but for the toothy critters you will need to add 40 lb. braided wire as well. s Seaguar Blue Label (40-60 lb.) s SA Absolute Knottable Wire (40 lb.)

s Winston Air 2 Max s Scott Sector s Hardy Marksman Z

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email:

i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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Gloves Flies Make sure you bring plenty of flies! The guides and lodges are a thousand miles from the closest fly shop. Come prepared! And even though we are using 60 lb. leader, the piranha don’t care. Stock up your fly boxes with a ton of different patterns to ensure a successful time on the water. Not sure what you need? The Fly Shop® offers amazing selections for every destination that we represent. Just tell us the dates of your trip and the destination and we can hook you up with the perfect fly assortment to keep your line tight. Buy a bunch. If you don’t use them you can always return them for store credit towards your next purchase. We would rather you have too many than to go all that way and come up short.

Jacket Bring a lightweight, breathable rain jacket on your jungle trip. It is called the RAIN forest, there will be occasional and sometimes torrential squalls. You don’t need your big, bulky steelhead jacket, just something light that rolls up and fits in your dry bag or backpack. s Patagonia Boulder Fork Rain Jacket s Skwala Carbon Jacket

Fishing Shirts There are many excellent options out there. Just make sure the shirt is at least UPF 30+. They should be lightweight and breathable, preferably with a hood. A couple of our favorites are: s Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoody s Skwala Sol Tropic Hoody

Te c h n i c a l Pa n t s & S h o r t s Most of us here take both pants and shorts on these jungle adventures just to have some options. Taking two of each is plenty due to the fact that most lodges and camps provide free laundry service, or just rinse them in the shower in the evening. Pants are nice to wear as they provide extra sun protection and keep any bugs in check. Standard flats pants for saltwater fishing are perfect. They should be designed to get wet, and dry in the sun and breeze quickly. s Skwala Sol Wading Pant s Skwala Sol Wading Short

We highly recommend a pair of UPF sun-protective gloves for jungle fishing. On top of sun protection for the back of your hands, they provide finger protection from line burns with leather reinforced stripping fingers. If you are a glove hater, there are also finger guards that minimize line burns. s Glacier Glove Islamorada Sun Glove s Skwala Sol Tropic Gloves s Stripper Finger Guards

Headwear Whether you like a full-brimmed sun hat, an unstructured floppy hat, a trucker-style flat bill, or just an old baseball cap, that is your choice. Just make sure it keeps the sun off your face and out of your eyes and make sure you have a backup. We recommend that you choose one that has a darker underbill to reduce glare on the water and on your sunglasses. s Simms Solar Sombrero s TFS Ball Cap

Facewear Buff facemasks have become the norm rather than an oddity, a major part of the fly fishing uniform. Not because they are stylish, but because they provide anglers with vital protection from the sun on their face, ears, and neck. We don’t go fishing without one, ever, and you’d be crazy to go without one in the jungle… Make sure your mask has a high UPF rating and that it is comfortable for all day use. s Coolnet UV Buff

Polarized Sunglasses Sunglasses are an essential part of fly fishing, allowing anglers to see through the water. These glasses are designed to cut the glare on the water and give you an eagle-eye view of what is happening below the surface. They are also vital for wading, seeing where your next underwater step is going to land…and don’t forget the protection they provide from stray flies whizzing by your head! We recommend that you bring two pairs of glasses…They don’t float! s Costa del Mar

Footwear What you wear on your feet can vary in the jungle. If you are fishing from a boat, you don’t need anything at all, just socks or Crocs. But if you are wading, you’ll need all of the protection you need in any river wading scenario. Base your choice on how you are fishing on any given day. Just make sure your feet are comfortable so you can fish all day and are protected from sun and nasty wading on slippery rocks. Make sure your jungle footwear also drains and dries quickly as you will be in and out of the water constantly. s Astral Loyak Shoe s Korkers Fish Flip s Korkers Salt Sneaker w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

Fishpond photo

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2/3 Introduction 8/7/26 4:12 PM Page 1

A POWERFUL 8’6” AIR 2 MA AX ROD + 5,000 BLIND CASTS = A SHOULDER READY FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCCESS.

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SOUTH AMERICA

Bolivia

Imagine wading freestone streams, sight-casting floating lines amongst the most majestic, pristine scenery imaginable, for aggressive fish that average 8 to 30lbs. Tsimane is a once-in-a-lifetime jungle experience, sight-casting to monster dorado that can tip the scales at up to 40 pounds, and cohabit with fierce pacú that can weigh up to 25 pounds. Much of the fly fishing is done in mountain fisheries that are often as clear as any western trout stream. It’s angling in a spectacular tropical jungle setting accented by exotic birdlife, wildlife, and set to a cacophony of jungle chatter.

Golden dorado may be the ultimate freshwater gameﬁsh!

Untamed Angling photos

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BOLIVIA

Heli Fishing The ultimate helicopter fly-out fly fishing adventure deep in the jungle of Bolivia! A S I F the Tsimane experience wasn’t

Untamed Angling photos

exciting enough, our partners at Untamed Angling have again raised the bar with a helicopter fly out program. Miles and miles of never before fished dorado water, not accessible on foot or from boats, is now reachable by short daily flights in two helicopters from Pluma Lodge. Anglers will fish three to six full days of helicopter fishing. This is fly-out fishing on steroids, the ultimate jungle fly fishing adventure. Guests will be based at Pluma Lodge, built entirely from sustainable wood cut from the nearby jungle. The main lodge features four log cabins and sleeps up to eight anglers. Each cabin has box spring beds, private bathrooms with hot water, and electric lights. Every evening guests will be delighted by the delicious international cuisine paired with great Argentine wines in a well-fashioned, spacious living and dining room. Each morning, the helicopters will fly pairs of anglers with their guides to secluded locations in the high-country to a variety of unspoiled headwaters in the vicinity of Pluma Lodge. Lunch and

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cold beverages are carried by your guide each day. At the end of your angling day the helicopters will pick the groups up and return to the lodge. Besides the golden dorado (the king of the river) there are other species to pursue, such as pacu (jungle freshwater permit) and yatoranas. Together these species make a trio very difficult to match in warm freshwater fly fishing. The rivers you’ll fish are very similar to freestone trout rivers with pools, runs, pocket water, and riffles. If you are a good and pragmatic trout angler, you will feel very comfortable reading and fishing these rivers. For those that don’t want to commit to 6 full days of helicopter fly-out fishing, there is a hybrid program that offers 3 days of fly-outs and 3 days of walk & wade fly fishing from Pluma Lodge – the best of both worlds. pluma lodge heli fishing s 9 Night / 6 Day fishing package

$15,000-$18,500 s Late June through late October

i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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BOLIVIA

Pluma Lodge Deluxe accommodations – just because you’re in the most remote corner of the Bolivian jungle mountain lands doesn’t mean you have to be uncomfortable. O U T of the comforts of the main Pluma Lodge and the two headwaters out-camps, anglers have access to three different rivers, each different and unique: the Pluma River, Itirizama River, and the lower Sécure River. This broad variety of waters and pools allow groups to fish fresh water every day, and rarely, if ever, repeat the same fishing beat. The water types vary from deep pools to rugged pocket water. The main Pluma Lodge features four log cabins and sleeps up to eight anglers. Each cabin has boxspring beds, bathrooms with hot water, and electric lights. Wines from Argentina and exceptionally-prepared cuisine meet every high-end expectation and will put an exclamation point on each and every action-packed angling day, with satellite internet wireless connection and phone service an added bonus. Each day angling pairs ﬁsh one of the many beats in the Pluma area, returning to the lodge at the end of the day. There are options to ﬁsh the upper Pluma and Itirizama river headwater camps, including overnight possibilites at the out-camps for one or two nights

BASED

during the fishing week. Each headwater camp is suited for two anglers; this means two anglers in the upper Pluma camp and two anglers in the upper Itirizama camp. The fishing season at Pluma Lodge is timed to coincide with the dry season so the rivers will be at their lowest. Temperatures can see the 90’s during the day and drop to the 50’s or 60’s at night over the course of its season. Of course, rains can come at any time, but this is the best time of the year to fish there. The rivers are more like clear mountain trout streams where sightfishing is the rule. Tsimane is outfitted by the “Jungle Guys”, Untamed Angling. They are the most experienced and recognized jungle outfitters in the world. The management and staff will take care of all the logistics, support and mechanics of the trip – all you have to do is fish as hard as you can and enjoy the experience.

Untamed Angling photo

pluma lodge s 9 Night / 6 Day package

$9,850

s September through May

Daniel Coimbra photo

Christiaan Pretorious photos w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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BOLIVIA

Agua Negra Golden dorado are king salmon with rotten attitudes and even worse orthodonture! A G U A N E G R A experience is based out of a comfortable jungle lodge that is located in an unspoiled area close to the junction of the Agua Negra and Sécure Rivers, and designed for no more than 4 anglers at one time. This remote lodge offers new wood cabins with comfortable beds, private bathrooms with hot water, and electric lights. Every evening guests will be satiated by the delicious international cuisine paired with great Argentine, Chilean and Bolivian wines in a wellfashioned living and dining room. Satellite internet, wireless connection and phone service are all provided. The Agua Negra fishing program is designed around 5 different fishing beats, which rotate every day, giving minimal pressure to the fishery. These beats include the lower, middle, and upper sections of the Agua Negra River, along with a section of the Sécure River where the two come together and the small Chimoro Creek.

THE

Antti Rastivo photos

There is also an out-camp for those wishing to overnight in the remote upper Agua Negra headwaters. We recommend the upper out-camps for physically fit anglers, as all of the fishing is done walking and wading upstream and there is a lot of hiking involved to reach the upper camps. These headwater options aren’t for every angler, but allow the more adventurous ones to enhance their stay, fishing unique virgin mountain rivers for a once-in-a-lifetime sight-casting jungle experience. Every day anglers will see hundreds of Macaws, Toucans, colorful butterflies, unique mammals like jaguars, tapirs, and native deer, all living inside a pristine jungle forest environment. Bring your camera and your binoculars for this trip, you don’t want to miss a thing. agua negra s 9 Night / 6 Day package s June through late October

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i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

$9,850

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BOLIVIA

Sécure Lodge One of only three Bolivian lodges dedicated to fly fishing only! T H E S É C U R E L O D G E experience is based in a wonderful lodge built from sustainable wood cut from the nearby jungle. There’s also the option to do headwater out-camps on the upper Sécure River. This remote jungle lodge features single wood constructed accommodations for a maximum of six anglers. Each private cabin has a comfortable bed, private bathroom, 24hour electricity and plenty of room to organize your kit and get settled in. Each day, teams of two anglers will fish the various beats in the area. In addition, depending on the fishing, weather and river conditions, groups of 2 anglers at a time will have the option of an overnight camp on the upper sections of the Sécure River. This allows for extended fishing times and access to some of the most untouched, headwater sections of the stream. Based on the comforts of the main Sécure Lodge and the opportunity of doing the headwaters out-camps, anglers have access to a broad variety of waters which allow groups to fish in fresh water every day, and rarely, if ever, repeat the same beat.

The Upper Sécure River is a very beautiful, crystal-clear stream wedged among mountains that allows anglers an extremely close and exciting contact with the jungle. The means of transportation are handmade Chiman wood dugout canoes (coambas) powered by push poles or engines. On the upper Sécure you’ll find dorados of over 30-pounds, many of them residents. There are also pacus, moturos, surubis and yatoranas, which are excellent jungle species to pursue. The fishing at Sécure Lodge is timed to coincide with the dry season so the rivers will be at their lowest. Temperatures can be in the 90’s during the day and drop to the 50’s or 60’s at night over the course of the season. This river is more like a clear mountain trout stream where sight-fishing is the rule. sécure lodge s 9 Night / 6 Day package

$9,850

s June through late October

Untamed Angling photos

phone

800-669-3474

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VENEZUELA

Pasimoni Lodge This pristine river system has world-class peacock bass with true trophy potential A F T E R A N extensive two-year search across the headwaters of the Rio Negro and Orinoco river systems, our good friends at Aﬂoat uncovered what many anglers consider the ultimate destination for giant peacock bass, hidden deep within one of the most remote and untouched regions in Venezuela. In the past few years these legendary waters have earned global recognition for producing some of the largest peacock bass ever caught. The Pasimoni River is a remote paradise in an area where giant Temensis peacock bass reign supreme. Located in the upper headwaters of a very unique system, this untouched river forms a natural gateway between the Amazon and Orinoco basins. The Pasimoni is a tributary of the Casiquiare River, which connects the Orinoco and Amazon river systems in a truly unique headwater ecosystem. This river acts as a natural waterway, diverting up to 30% of the Upper Orinoco's water into the Rio Negro – a major tributary of the Amazon River enabling boat travel between the basins.

Typical Amazonian rivers have fewer lagoons and are more focused on sandbanks and main-river fishing. The unique thing about the Pasimoni is that it has the best of both worlds – main river structure combined with a large number of lagoons. Unlike other rivers further south in the Rio Negro basin, the Pasimoni has seen minimal sportfishing since the 1990’s. This has left it virtually untouched until 2024 when the operation was first started. Being remote doesn’t mean being uncomfortable. The lodge takes a total of 10 anglers per week in double occupancy, shared rooms. It has an open-air jungle design with two queensize beds per room, all equipped with bug nets, fans, 24-hour electricity, laundry service, and Starlink WiFi for communication. It will give you all the comforts of home in the remote Venezuelan jungle. pasimoni lodge s 10 Night / 6 Day package

$6,500

s September - November & January - March

Pasimoni Lodge photos

w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

email:

i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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Colombia

T H E R I V E R T R I B U T A R I E S of the eastern plains and the Orinoco River of Colombia were once home to virtually every world record peacock bass. At one time 6 of the top 10 IGFA all-tackle, and many of the ﬂy caught peacock bass world records came from this jungle hotspot. Then, 40 years ago, the region became a “No Go” zone when guerilla insurgents arrived, and anglers understandably lost interest.

Forget about drug cartels and guerilla warfare, visiting Colombia is now a walk in the South American park since its government has settled political unrest problems. Famous peacock bass rivers like the Mataveni, Tomo and Gavilan are once again accepting anglers and we here at The Fly Shop® couldn’t be more thrilled!

Erik Argotti photos

Rio Mataveni T H R E E Y E A R S of being closed off to public fishing, 2027 is the return of Colombia’s Mataveni River and its giant peacock bass. Long famous for growing recordclass fish, the International Game Fish Association recognizes the Mataveni River for producing two world record Orinoco peacocks, and a speckled peacock weighing 26.8 pounds. Chasing world records may or may not be on your list, but the experience of casting a fly to a 20-pound class peacock bass just under the water’s surface in a tropical lagoon should be! The Mataveni River is a major tributary of the Orinoco, and boasts excellent numbers of some of the largest peacock bass in the world as well as a very healthy population of

butterflies. In addition to peacock bass, anglers will have shots at other exotic species including pirañha, bicuda, wolf fish, matrinxã, sardinata, mataguaro and payara. This gives fly anglers the best of both worlds – high catch volume fishing as well as a chance at a peacock bass of a lifetime. For the 2027 season they plan on having an expedition-style camp, with a single tent per angler, open area dining and social area, bathrooms and showers, all set on a remote jungle beach. Meals are simple and hearty, prepared by a talented staff.

AFTER

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Rio Mataveni photo

rio mataveni s 9 Night / 6 Day package

$6,000

s January through early April

phone

800-669-3474

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COLOMBIA

Akuani River Lodge There are few places in the world that can offer the ideal combination for these two coveted species, temensis peacock bass and payara! A K U A N I R I V E R L O D G E is a place that provides all the comforts of a lodge deep in the Colombian jungle, while getting to know the Sikuani and Piaroa indigenous communities along with out-of-thisworld scenery and some of the best fishing the country has to offer. You will spend six days fishing the Orinoco and Vichada Rivers. Four days fishing the Vichada River’s many lagoons located near the camp for 3 species of peacock bass and then you will travel an hour+ down river on a fast boat and spend two days fishing the Maipures Rapids for payara, spending a night in the jungle canopy at the Orinoco out-camp. At Akuani River Lodge, you’ll be in the Mataven jungle amongst the Sikuani people, the local community. It's a special place to get to know the culture and see life in the jungle. There are four raised platform Aframes, with an open air design. They are spacious and each cabin has 2 beds, a fan, bug nets over each bed, a vanity

sink, shower and toilet. The dining area is on a raised deck as well, with plenty of room to gather around the covered dining table. The payara camp is extremely basic and equipped with double occupancy nylon tents with cots. It has two shower tents and two toilets located a close distance from the sleeping tents. Your outfitter, Afloat, is an experienced and recognized outfitter in Colombia and the world of sportfishing in South America. These folks are pros with years of operating experience in the remote areas; you are in very capable hands. The management and staff will take care of all the logistics, support, and mechanics of the trip – all you have to do is fish as hard as you can and enjoy the entire jungle experience. akuani river lodge s 9 Night / 6 Day package s Great Jungle Value

Akuani photos

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email:

$4,900

s Late November through March

i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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COLOMBIA

Akuani Floating Camp A floating, mobile fishing camp where the jungle meets the Eastern Colombian plains F L O A T I N G C A M P is a floating mobile operation on the Tomo River and its major tributary the Gavilan River, targeting three different species of peacock bass – Temensis, butterflies, and Royal or Intermedia peacock bass. The floating lodge concept allows the outfitter the ability to manage the water for optimum fishing by rotating beats over a stretch of 75 miles of river. This flexibility allows for a dynamic angling program. The Tomo is a diverse fishery with daily shots at large peacock bass that can hit the 20-pound mark and above. In addition to trophy-sized peacocks, the Tomo, its tributary the Gavilan and the endless back bays and lagoons have a very strong population of two other species of fierce, hard-hitting and fighting peacocks for anglers that predicate their success on big numbers of landed fish. It’s an action-packed and exotic angling adventure in a remote setting, just what we like in a fishery. This experience is an opportunity to live and fish in a unique ecosystem. Your camp will be located on a white

AKUANI

sandbar in a jungle river corridor, with the sounds of parrots filtering down through the trees at dawn. For a week your small group of anglers will have this world-class fishery all to yourselves, aided by local guides. It’s not uncommon to see howler monkeys, capybaras, tapirs, and if you are lucky, an anaconda or jaguar. You can fish popping bugs for butterfly peacocks, cast to schools of baitfish being destroyed by hungry pintalapas (spotted Temensis), and then dine on a delicious meal for dinner. We guarantee that you will never forget your journey to fish the Tomo River, and the country that surrounds it. Each floating cabin accommodates two guests and are not air-conditioned, but do have individual fans over each bed that run during night. Each cabin features a flush toilet, as well as a shower, sink, and vanity. akuani floating camp s 9 Night / 6 Day package

$4,500

s January through early April s Great Jungle Value

Akuani photos w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

phone

800-669-3474

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Saltwater

Saltwater ﬂy ﬁshing is all about the hunt!

T H E S A L T W A T E R ﬂy ﬁshing world is massive, and considering

that 71% of the earth’s surface (139 million square miles) is covered in saltwater, choosing where to fish can be overwhelming at times. The maze of considerations (moon phases, tides, seasons, weather, species, lodges, prices, and availability) can intimidate even the most salty veteran. So, it makes sense to have experts like the travel team here at The Fly Shop® help you navigate the limitless options. And booking your angling holiday with our outstanding team won’t cost you an extra dime! It might just save you money.

w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

For nearly 50 years, The Fly Shop® has been on the cutting edge of saltwater ﬂy ﬁshing exploration. We helped pioneer many of the most famous destinations of the saltwater angling map. Our travels have taken us to the Seychelles, Kiribati, Australia, Mexico, Oman, French Polynesia, Fiji, the Cook Islands, the Gilberts, West Africa, the Indian Ocean, the Bahamas, Honduras, the West Indies, Chile’s Fjordlands, Guatemala, Belize, Cuba, Venezuela, Panama, and more.

email:

Los Roques photo i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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S A LT WAT E R D E S T I N AT I O N O P T I O N S

B a h a ma s The Bahamas has it all! There are convenient daily ﬂights and regularly scheduled charters from Florida to every island in the Bahamas. The “Out islands” may be a bit more diﬃcult to reach, but nearly every lodge we represent can be reached in a single day.

Cuba Cuba’s legendary flats are now open for business and The Fly Shop® has teamed up with two reliable outfitters with exclusive access to distinctly different and diverse fisheries!

Mex ic a n Yuc a t a n The Mexican Yucatan covers 44,000-square miles with over 500 miles of coastline – along this vast shoreline are thousands of square miles of shallow bays and ﬂats.

Belize There is something for everyone in Belize, and a collection of some of the most well-organized, professional lodges, guides, and ﬁshing operations in the Caribbean.

Baja These diverse, action-packed saltwater ﬁsheries are just an inexpensive, short ﬂight from any city in the West!

Ho ndu ra s Fly Fish Guanaja is an all-inclusive saltwater fly-fishing lodge in the Bay Islands of Honduras. Fly Fish Guanaja’s lodge sits in the perfect location with numerous permit flats within a 5-minute boat ride.

C o l o m b ia

Travel or Fish with us and get %

15 Off

on retail purchases for an entire year *

Anigua Pacific Lodge has access to one of the richest saltwater fisheries in the Pacific. During the spring, tuna, sailfish, wahoo, roosterfish, marlin, Cubera snapper and other species move in close to shore to feed on a massive migration of sardines.

FishCamp, private water, or

G ua t e ma l a

travel adventure.

This area is said to hold one of highest concentrations of sailﬁsh anywhere, and it is easily accessible. Chances are greater of hooking billﬁsh here than anywhere in the world.

Ve ne z u e l a Enjoy the fishing and ignore the politics. Los Roques is one of the greatest wade-fisheries for bonefish in the world.

I nd ia n O c e a n The remote flats and atolls represent one of the final frontiers in saltwater flats fishing. These destinations are a long way from anything, which has helped protect and preserve the resources and fisheries.

O ma n Arabian Fly Sport Fishing, on the coast of Oman is an amazing and extremely unique fishery. The outfitters of Arabian Fly are the pioneers of this area and the team that figured out how to target T. Africanus permit.

C h r i s t ma s Is l a nd

Book a guide, school,

Upgrade your gear, stock up on flies,or grab the latest waders, all while enjoying the best in fly fishing. Already booked for an upcoming reservation? You’re covered too! * Some exceptions apply. Discount valid one year from deposit.

Give us a call. Book your trip, and start saving today!

Christmas Island earned its fame as one of – if not the – most prolific bonefish destinations anywhere, and fly rodders have made this remote Pacific atoll a must-fish for saltwater fly fishing locales for decades.

Au s t ra l ia Australia is the latest frontier on the saltwater fly fishing map. For years we have heard fantastic stories from The Land Down Under, and finally we had to go explore it for ourselves. What we encountered lived up to the hype. email:

t r a v e l @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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2/3 Introduction 8/11/26 10:19 AM Page 1

G R A N D B A H A M A , G R E AT A B A C O, A N D R O S , B E R RY I S L A N D S , C R O O K E D

& ACKLINS

The Bahamas

When it comes to incredible bonefishing opportunities, great lodges, skilled guides, and a wide range of flats experiences for both experts and beginners, the Bahamas set the standard. T H E B A H A M A S has it all! There are convenient daily flights and regularly scheduled charters from Florida to every island in the Bahamas. The “out islands” may be a bit more difficult to reach, and the occasionally unreliable flights can be frustrating, but nearly every lodge we represent can be reached in a single day from the continental United States. The flats of the Bahamas appear to have been custom-tailored for fly fishermen, and the fishable area of the Bahamas dwarfs the combined size of all of the flats of Belize, Honduras, and the entire Mexican Yucatan. There’s something in the Bahamas for everyone. Serious anglers can find just the kind of action they’re after, while anglers traveling with their family or non-fishing companions have several great choices that’ll put a smile on the face of everyone. The Fly Shop® represents a wide range of destinations in the Bahamas, many more than we could put in this publication. We offer everything from white sand beaches and plush linens to remote locations where the flats go on for miles without another person in sight. The options are endless and we can help put you in the right place at the right time. The common thread that connects all of these locations is the outstanding bonefishing the Bahamas has to offer. We have fished at every one of these places, so please contact us so we can share our experience and get you headed in the right direction. Don’t forget to ask us to mail you a copy of our most recent Bahamas magazine, highlighting the destinations that we are proud to represent, with informative articles on how bonefish navigate tides, and more.

Dylan Rose photo

Matt Jones photo

Fly Lords photo w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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2/3 Introduction 8/10/26 1:25 PM Page 2

Andros South Lodge A N D R O S S O U T H is located just north of Deep Creek, where their boats are moored for quick and easy access to both Little and Deep Creek, and the fabled Westside with its large ocean bonefish and the south-end cays, creeks and flats. Andros South has easy and quick access to miles of firm, light-bottom flats, perfect for classic wade fishing for skinny water bones. If you like bonefishing on foot, this is the place. There are flats here that stretch to the horizon and you can wade and fish as far as your legs will take you. This is one of the best destinations in the Bahamas for a double-digit bonefish, with honest ten pound fish

a daily possibility. If you have dreamed of hooking and landing a real trophy boneﬁsh, this is as good a place as there is to make it happen. Anglers are accommodated in single and private rooms. No need to share a room with another guest and no need to bring ear plugs to ensure a good nights sleep. andros south lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$6,650

Andros South photos

s Shorter stay options available s October through May

Mars Bay Bonefish Lodge L O C A T E D L I T E R A L L Y at the end of the road at the southern end of Andros Island, they have close access to miles of hard sand flats at the southern tip of Andros, where schools of bonefish roam the flats. Mars Bay is situated on the southeastern tip of Andros and affords anglers a skiff ride to pristine flats teeming with unpressured, hungry bonefish. The lodge itself is located on a flat large enough for a dozen fishermen. You can expect to encounter everything from large schools, classic sight-casting to smaller schools of five to twenty fish, and shots at cruising doubles and singles exceeding ten pounds!

With a capacity of only ten anglers, you can have the whole place to yourselves. Bill Howard is the owner and operator, and oversees every aspect of the operation, from the boat fuel to grilling your steak. Besides being a great guy, Bill makes sure that Mars Bay runs like a Swiss watch. mars bay bonefish lodge $6,600 s Shorter stay options available s October through June s 7 Night / 6 Day package

Andros Island Bonefish Club A R E nearly 1,000-square miles of flats surrounding Andros Island, and it is a dream come true for hard-core anglers in pursuit of trophy bonefish. And right in the middle of it all is Andros Island Bonefish Club. We believe that Andros is one of the finest locations for the fly fishing angler to stalk and cast to what is truly categorized as a “trophy bonefish” (8 – 15 pound fish)! Andros Island stands alone in its potential for numbers of record-class fish that can be spotted on any given day of the year! The bonefishing mecca of Andros Island and the superb hospitality at Andros Island Bonefish Club come together in a tropical paradise. It is a place where you can fish the seemingly endless flats, relax in a shaded hammock and absorb the beauty that is Andros Island Bonefish Club. Each room features two queen beds, air conditioning, en suite bathrooms, closet space and dressers.

THERE

andros island bonefish club $5,635 s Shorter stay options available s January through December

Mars Bay Lodge photo

s 7 Night / 6 Day package

Dylan Rose photo w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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BAHAMAS

Bair’s Lodge

Stephan Dombaj photos

B A I R ’ S L O D G E I S situated on the east side of South Andros, between Deep Creek and Little Creek. These two creeks, a 5-minute boat ride from the lodge, open into vast areas of inland flats that are not only easily waded but offer relief from the wind. For years, the cays, flats, creeks and bights of South Andros have earned a great reputation for being lightly fished and for containing large fish. Oceanside flats are big fish environments and are fished from poled flats skiffs. Depending on weather, tides, and winds, anglers each morning have the choice of fishing inside for school-size bonefish that

average 3 – 4 pounds, or venturing outside to fish the open water flats where the fish can reach trophy proportions. Classic sightcast fishing for bonefish is the main focus. Bair's is a deluxe, waterfront property limited to only ten anglers. Representing the benchmark in terms of professional guides, wonderful accommodations, and courteous hospitality. Don’t forget the superb cuisine that’ll awaken your tastebuds. bair’s lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$8,350

s January through June

Mangrove Cay Club M A N G R O V E C A Y ’ S location provides

Erik Argotti photo

quick and safe access to the north bights, middle bights, and the west side of Andros Island. That translates into hundreds of square miles of flats, back bays and creeks to explore and fish. A near infinite number of fishing locations. The “West Side” of the island is a vast uninhabited wilderness that sees little angling pressure. Anglers that like the idea of fishing true wilderness flats for bigger bonefish, owe it to themselves to travel to the “West Side” for a day or two. The west side fishing is done mostly by boat over softer-bottom flats. There are wading flats around and if that is your preference, some time can be spent there as well. The guides will pole your boat over the flats, positioning you

for the best cast to bonefish spotted by you and/or your guide. All of the guides are skilled fly fishermen; they are seasoned pros and enjoy what they do. You can count on them to put in a full day and find lots of targets. You will be a better angler after fishing with these experts. The lodging at Mangrove Cay offers deluxe accommodations that will satisfy the most demanding traveling angler. The food is gourmet, prepared by a trained staff. This is a destination where all your wants and needs will be met. mangrove cay club s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$7,950

s October through June

Crooked & Acklins Island Lodge

Erik Argotti photo

T H I S E N T I R E L Y remote flats fishing lodge is located four hundred and thirty miles southeast of Miami, with Crooked Island forming the northern rim and Acklins the easterly rim. The atoll covers better than two hundred and thirty square miles of shallow flats, islands, cays and creeks, offering sensational shallow water fishing for bonefish, permit, tarpon, ‘cudas and snappers. The lodge is simple, the fishing program varied, and the staff wonderfully Bahamian with a lot of heart. Anglers share a double room with an ensuite bathroom and airconditioning. Your hosts Christine and email:

her sister Carnetha will keep you wellnourished with conch, fresh fish, lobster, grits, beans and rice. The seasoned guide staff are dedicated watermen that know their home waters well and will put in a full day. Crooked & Acklins is a remote flats destination that remains affordable and worthy of serious consideration to those anglers looking for quality fishing and simple lodging. crooked & acklins island lodge $5,049 s October through June s 7 Night / 6 Day package

i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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BAHAMAS

Bain’s Top Choice Lodge I S L A N D , Bahamas, is positioned four hundred and fifty four miles southeast of Miami. With Crooked Island forming the northern rim of the atoll, and Acklins the easterly rim, the interior covers better than 230 square miles. Acklins Island itself offers more than fifty miles of flats and shoreline with ideal bonefish habitat. This is a multi-species fishery. In addition to bonefish, there are excellent populations of permit, triggerfish, snapper, jacks and barracuda to pursue. This is an ideal location for anglers looking to check off some flats fishing species from their bucket list.

ACKLINS

The huge sand flats can be waded all day, unlike many destinations that flood the flats on high tide. Acklins bonefish are known to feed in extremely shallow water, especially at low tide, and approaching them on foot is typically the best method. The beachfront lodge hosts up to 8 anglers in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. Each guest room has a private bathroom, 2 queen size beds, mini fridge, purified water, and ceiling fans.

Dan Towsley photo

bain’s top choice lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$3,850

s January through December s Great value

The Delphi Club T H E F A B L E D Marls on the west side

of Abaco offer more than 200 square miles of backcountry bonefishing flats, just minutes from the lodge. This is a massive complex of islands, channels and flats that are home to more bonefish than you can imagine. South of the Marls is Sandy Point, providing angling access to the southern end of Abaco, including Gorda Cay, Moore’s Island, and Cross Harbour. This is bonefish country, with shots at permit and tarpon. The fishing program is geared toward serious anglers looking for solitude in their fishing experience. The fish get less pressured and they like to eat. In addition, being able to access both the east and west side of the island is a huge

Bain's Top Choice Bonefish Lodge photo

advantage when it comes to selecting the ﬁshing location for the day. The Delphi Club is one of the nicest and most deluxe boneﬁshing lodges in the world and a very suitable destination for non-anglers with a variety of activities that will keep companions active and happy, including a freshwater pool and great ocean-side beach for walks. Luxury accommodations and lodge grounds will satisfy the most demanding guest. The food is gourmet, prepared by a trained staff, and the attention to detail is spot-on.

Erick Dent photo

the delphi club s 5 Night / 4 Day package

$8,112

s October through June

Fly Lords photo

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Cuba

The legendary flats of Cuba are now open for fly fishing and The Fly Shop® has teamed up with a few honest, reliable outfitters that have exclusive access to terrific zones. N O M A T T E R the politics, American travelers are now travelling

The Fly Shop’s travel team has hosted numerous trips to Cuba in

to Cuba in numbers that actually exceed the amount of tourism

the past few years. These trips began in either Havana, Santa Clara or

prior to the Cuban revolution, and ﬂy ﬁshermen are part of that

Camagüey, including an airport greeting and transportation in the

crowd. There are direct commercial flights to Havana,

classically restored cars that Cuba is famous for. The day proceeds

Camagüey, and Santa Clara from Miami and entry requirements

into an evening's meal including a traditionally roasted “lechon

are simple and streamlined.

asado”, endless grilled lobster tails, and enchanting traditional

Cuba is a fabulous immersion into a lifestyle that continues to be

dishes. Add a cigar rolling presentation to live music and dancing,

stuck in the 1950’s – a refreshing gulp of clean Caribbean air and old

and the ﬁrst night in Cuba is unforgettable. As Jamie M. said upon

world charm – and is a part of why you should consider traveling to

our return from Cayo Cruz, “it’s more than a ﬁshing trip.”

and ﬂy ﬁshing in Cuba with us and our partners.

Please check with us about availability on upcoming trips.

Michael Caranci photo

email:

i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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CUBA

Cayo Cruz C R U Z is a long narrow cay, about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) long with a total area of 32 square kilometers (12.3 square miles), located on the north shore of the eastern province of Camagüey in Cuba. The Cayo Cruz fishery is an enormous system of flats, lagoons and pristine estuaries. The fly fishing only area is 366 square kilometers (141 square miles) in size, meaning that on the average day, each skiff and pair of anglers has over 50 square kilometers (19 square miles) to fish and explore all to themselves. The fishing grounds are not overcrowded or over-fished and represent one of the purest and most biologically diverse marine ecosystems in the entire world. The fishing focuses on sight-fishing the shallow flats for bonefish and permit, as well as fishing deeper flats, cuts and estuaries for tarpon and the occasional snook. Other species like snapper, jack crevalle and barracuda can also be targeted. This is a multispecies fishery, similar to those you find on the Yucatan Peninsula or Belize, and is a combination of wading hardbottomed flats and fishing from expertly poled skiffs. There is a ton of fishing variety to keep the most seasoned flats angler engaged, while at the same time suitable for anglers new to flats fishing.

C AY O

Cayo Cruz is an ideal location for those who don’t want to spend a week on a live-aboard ship. The La Marina & Spa Hotel, your homebase for the week, has all the amenities you would expect, including two swimming pools, bar, lounge, a variety of restaurants, bowling alley, spa, and more. Its location is a short walk to the marina where your fishing day begins and ends each day. This is a very appropriate destination to have your non-angling guest join you on your Cuban fly fishing adventure, they will be well looked after and be very comfortable. The exclusive Welcome Party and extra day in the town of Camagüey includes – a pig roast, Cuban band, dancers, a cigar roller, a short presentation about the cigars of Cuba, and a tasting of Cuban rum, coffee and American bourbon paired with cigars, the perfect kick-off to your trip! We highly recommend adding this extra day for the cultural experience. cayo cruz s 8 Night / 6 Day package

$5,690-$9,340

s Late November through late April

Cayo Cruz photos

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phone

800-669-3474

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CUBA

Las Salinas S A L I N A S I S a destination near the small town of Playa Larga on Caletón Beach, situated at the southern edge of the Zapata Peninsula, one of Cuba’s most ecologically rich and protected areas. Nestled along the Bahía de Cochinos (Bay of Pigs), this region is known for its expansive flats, winding mangrove channels, and crystal-clear lagoons. As part of the Ciénaga de Zapata National Park, commercial fishing is strictly prohibited, preserving a vast and unpressured fishery. The designated fly fishing zone spans an extensive area, ensuring each skiff has ample water to explore on any given day. The result is a pristine, diverse ecosystem, unlike many other locations in the Caribbean where over-fishing has significantly impacted fish populations. The Las Salinas fly fishing experience embodies the essence of an unspoiled saltwater paradise with very healthy fish populations, impressive sizes, and waters that remain largely untouched by angling pressure. Set against the backdrop of lush mangroves, expansive flats, and the clear waters of the Bay of Pigs, this destination offers an unforgettable fishing adventure.

LAS

Pat Pendergast photo

Las Salinas photos

The bonefishing here is outstanding, with large, aggressive fish patrolling the flats in excellent numbers. Beyond the renowned bonefish, permit, and tarpon, Las Salinas also offers exciting opportunities to target barracuda, snapper, jack crevalle, snook, and more. Bonefish thrive in this habitat, averaging 3 to 5 pounds, with larger specimens in the 8 to 10-pound range frequently making its appearances throughout the week. Tailing bonefish are a common sight, whether in singles, pairs, or large, foraging schools cruising the shallows. Caletón Beach offers several casas, depending on your group size, with airconditioned rooms, each providing a comfortable and private retreat after a day of exploring the Zapata Peninsula. Every room includes a private bath, WiFi, and essential modern comforts, ensuring a restful stay in this remote destination. The patios along the beach serve as a gathering space where guests can unwind in cozy seating areas, share stories of the day’s adventures, and enjoy refreshing drinks from the fullystocked bar. las salinas s 8 Night / 6 Day package

$4,550

s January through December s Best value in Cuba

Cuba Fly Fishing Co. photos

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CUBA

Canarreos T H I S U N I Q U E fly fishing adventure is designed to offer quality tarpon, permit, and bonefishing opportunities catering to the most discerning angler. You’ll experience two diverse destinations – Isla de Juventud and Cayo Largo – in one trip, utilizing a one-hundred-and-ten-foot liveaboard yacht as your mobile base. The natural bounty of Canarreos boasts a pristine coral reef bordered by mangrove keys and islands that provide unparalleled habitats for a wide variety of species. You can expect to encounter permit, bonefish, tarpon, jack crevalle, barracuda, mutton snapper, and snook, all within a completely protected marine sanctuary. In the Cayo Largo area, anglers can target abundant bonefish and permit on expansive white sand and turtle grass flats. To the west, among the mangrove cays of Isla de Juventud, you’ll find a vast mangrove and reef system teeming with tarpon and snook. The ability to move seamlessly between these areas on the liveaboard yacht makes for a very special and unique experience. Many of the Canarreos guides have spent their lives navigating these pristine waters, honing their skills in one of Cuba’s most remote fishing destinations. They have an intimate

knowledge of the flats, lagoons, and mangrove systems that make this area so productive. Their deep understanding of the ecosystem and fish behavior allows them to provide an unparalleled angling experience. Whether targeting bonefish, permit, or tarpon, their skill will help turn your fishing dreams into reality. Aboard the yacht, guest cabins include two queen-size staterooms and eight deluxe rooms, each with private bathrooms and climate control. There is also a lounge with a large-screen television and a photo-editing station, a shaded upper deck for morning coffee or afternoon siestas, and a jacuzzi. Known for its exceptional dining, guests enjoy fresh Cuban cuisine, including locally caught seafood paired with spirits and Cuban rum. Be sure to ask us about our exclusive hosted trips, including 8 nights and 6 days of guided fishing. The welcome party and additional day in the town ensures that you have the opportunity to experience the heart and soul of Cuba, where history, music, and tradition come to life. canarreos s 8 Night / 6 Day package

$8,590

s September through mid-March

Canarreos photos w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

phone

800-669-3474

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Gearing Up for Saltwater Flats Saltwater fisheries come with their own set of unique challenges. The fish you pursue are brutally strong, tackle is specialized, conditions can be extreme, and the sun is relentless.

Yo u r H e a d

Footwear

This is a great place to start when talking about sun protection. Having a hat that covers your head, ears, and face will keep the sun from scorching you all day. Many anglers just go with a ball cap and a Buff, while others opt for a wide brim hat or a solar shade. When choosing a hat, pick one that has a dark underbrim to help with light reflection off of the water. That same reflection can cause serious sunburns and a debilitating glare.

What you wear on your feet is a critical decision when wading…not so much when fishing from the skiff. Fishing from the boat, you can get away with nothing but socks and/or Crocs, but when you need to jump in the water and chase fish on foot, the type of flats you’re walking will dictate the right boot or shoe. When on soft sand flats you can get away with an inexpensive neoprene bootie as you don’t have to worry about any sharp materials cutting the sole. However, when you’re wading coral flats you definitely need a lace-up boot with a stiff sole that won’t easily cut. Make sure your boots fit properly and are comfortable for long days.

Sunglasses Having a high-quality pair of sunglasses is a must on the flats you are sight-fishing. If you can’t see the fish, then you aren’t even in the game. Not only will a good pair of sunglasses help you spot tailing bonefish and cruising permit, they’ll also provide protection from errant flies and the sun. Don’t skimp on these – invest in a reputable brand and you’ll increase your odds of spotting fish. Lens color is key to different conditions on the flats, so it’s wise to bring a few different options.

Rods Saltwater rods are a lot different than your 5-weight trout rod. You’ll want a rod that is quite a bit stiffer/faster and has a fighting butt. The fighting butt helps give you leverage as well as lifting power to subdue a feisty saltwater fish. You don’t have to have a broomstick, but it needs to be stiff enough to deliver your line through the wind. Most times you’ll want multiple rods for different species. The same rod you’re using to target bonefish isn’t going to work on a migratory tarpon.

Clothing Cotton may be comfortable when you are cruising around town, but doesn’t cut it for fishing the salt. We strongly recommend quick-drying clothing that is typically made of a synthetic blend and contains a high Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. Choose a shirt that allows ample range of movement, and wicks moisture. Many fishing specific shirts also have thumb loops that keep the sleeves over the backs of your hands. We like a sun shirt with a hood for an extra layer of protection, combining that with our hat and a Buff for maximum coverage. Pants or shorts? We tend to go with the pants option for the additional coverage and sun protection. Most “flats” pants are a synthetic blend and dry quickly in just a few minutes. If wading, choose something that has as little drag in the water as possible. It’s no fun lugging baggy legs through the flats for several hours each day, and tucking them into your socks isn’t ideal.

Reels Saltwater fly reels are specifically engineered for the rigors of salt and corrosion, as well as sportfish that will rip you into the backing. Reels should feature an anodized aluminum frame and spool, heavy duty reel seat, easy-to-grip handle, large arbor, and a sealed drag and clutch system. A large arbor reel is the way to go since it will take up line quickly and hold a minimum of 150 yards of backing – preferably braid. Backing capacity is important because some of these fish can run a long way. A lightweight freshwater reel on the flats doesn’t cut it – it will be destroyed by salt and sand.

Gloves

Fly lines

These are definitely a personal choice. Some anglers wear them, some don’t. Many of us here at the shop have opted to wear them religiously as they give that extra layer of protection for the backs of our hands. Some even offer padded fingers for line protection, while others have gone to the open palm concept allowing for a better feel of the rod. If you opt for open palm gloves, add finger sleeves to protect from line burn or cuts.

A freshwater fly line does not work in the saltwater. A fly line designed specifically for saltwater and warm tropical conditions is mandatory. These lines are designed with an engineered braided monofilament core that provides the proper stiffness, maintains shooting capabilities, and resists tangling and even melting in the heat. The hard, slick coating makes shooting line easier.

w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

email:

i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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M E X I C A N Y U C ATA N

Espiritu Santo Bay Lodge The shallow, light-colored ﬂats, creeks, and backcountry lagoons of Espiritu Santo Bay stretch to the Mexican horizon. They're loaded with boneﬁsh, permit, tarpon and snook. ESPIRITU

SANTO

B AY

LODGE

(ESB), is a wilderness flats fishing destination specifically designed for serious saltwater fly fishers. ESB sits on a remote Caribbean beach in the southernmost part of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, just south of the sleepy lobster fishing village of Punta Herrero and within the massive 1.3 million-acre Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. ESB Lodge allows anglers quick and easy access to the last frontier of Caribbean flats fishing – Espiritu Santo Bay. This fishery can provide fantastic action for all four of the Caribbean’s most famous flats species – permit, tarpon, bonefish, and snook. This is “Super Grand Slam” country! There are simply very few places left in the world with the same sort of unspoiled natural resources found in ESB. Robust and healthy populations of bonefish, permit, tarpon, and snook abound in its flats, creeks, and backcountry lagoons. Nobody has better access to or more intimate knowledge of the bay than the guides at Espiritu Santo Bay Lodge, who have spent years guiding there. ESB Lodge utilizes specialized Hell’s Bay Skiffs that silently float in inches of water. These boats are ideal for two anglers and their guide to access the

seemingly endless flats of Espiritu Santo Bay, enabling anglers even more daily opportunities for tailing bonefish and permit – as well as marauding tarpon and snook – in the farthest reaches of the most remote fishing area in the Mexican Yucatan. ESB Lodge is a beachfront lodge and accommodates a maximum of eight anglers per week, in four double occupancy rooms comprised of two duplexes built off the sand and separated by the lodge and kitchen complex and the large outside palapa. Each room is approximately 250-square feet in size and features a full bathroom, separate toilet area, shower, double sinks, two beds, two dressers and lots of shelving and hooks to store gear. Each room has its own thermostatcontrolled air conditioner, ceiling fan, and plenty of windows to take advantage of ocean breezes and natural light. The duplex cottages share a common deck overlooking the ocean with chairs – a perfect spot to enjoy a cold beer or ready your gear for the day.

Gerhard Laubscher photo

Erik Argotti photo

esb lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$7,200

s January through November

Gerhard Laubscher photos email:

t r a v e l @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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M E X I C A N Y U C ATA N

Casa Blanca Lodge

Br yan Gregson photo

Francisco Bedeschi photo

I F O N E W E R E to dream up the perfect location for a saltwater flats fishing lodge, it would be hard to find one better. The lodge sits on the northern side of the private island of Punta Pajaros, between Ascension Bay and Espiritu Santo Bay, right in the middle of the Sian Ka’an Bioshpere. Casa Blanca’s location affords quick access to Ascension Bay and Santa Rosa Lagoon, with thousands of flats, back bays, lagoons and creeks. All your boat rides are measured in minutes, not hours, and less time traveling to and from your fishery means more time fishing for you. Ascension Bay and Santa Rosa Lagoon have healthy populations of all four of the primary flats species you want to target: bonefish, permit, tarpon, and snook.

Combining a great management team with a very solid pool of experienced guides, Casa Blanca provides a first-class trip from start to finish. This is a worry-free fishing trip and the staff will take care of every facet of your trip. Casa Blanca is located on a private piece of property, far off the beaten path, offering very nice ocean-front accommodations. All the rooms feature private bathrooms, air-conditioning and are plenty big enough to spread out your gear and get organized. This ideal setting and facility was built for anglers. casa blanca lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$7,540-$7,970

s January through December

Playa Blanca Lodge P L A Y A B L A N C A is located on a small private island

Brian Grossenbacher photo

120 miles south of Cancun, Mexico, on the Yucatan’s Caribbean coast. It also happens to be in the center of one of the world’s largest protected wild areas – the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a pristine reserve covering over 1.3 million acres. Espiritu Santo Bay holds very strong populations of all four of the primary flats species: bonefish, permit, tarpon, and snook. With this species diversity, anglers have a daily opportunity to select their exact target species, or hunt for them all. Playa Blanca Lodge is absolutely one of the world’s top locations for you to score your Super Grand Slam! Playa Blanca fishes Dolphin skiffs that silently float in just inches of water. These boats are ideal for two anglers and their guide to access the seemingly endless

ﬂats and backcountry of Espiritu Santo Bay. This access provides anglers even more opportunities for tailing boneﬁsh, permit, tarpon and snook. Playa Blanca’s remote accommodations are seaside, thatched-roofed, duplex cabanas. The rooms are large with all the modern amenities, each with its own patio overlooking the grounds and nearby Caribbean. The food rivals any of the best restaurants on the Yucatan coast. Meals are served at the beachfront restaurant and bar. playa blanca lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$7,540-$7,970

s January through December

The Palometa Club A 3-hour drive south of Cancun, on the oceanside beach of the fishing village of Punta Allen, sits the Palometa Club. Its location is perfect for searching Ascension Bay for the fish it is famous for; bonefish, tarpon and the lodge’s namesake, permit. Their guides love nothing better than to chase permit, trying to set up the perfect shot for the angler on deck. They do it very efficiently with two trained guides on each boat, giving anglers an extra set of eyes to search for the target fish. Palometa Club uses big 23-foot pangas. They create a giant advantage on the big water crossings of Ascension Bay. They are far more comfortable than flats boats in this bigger water, and are also very stable when you are standing on the casting platform.

ABOUT

Patrick Duke photos

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This area of Mexico has some of the world’s ﬁnest permit angling and the Palometa Club has strived to become the most elite permit-oriented lodge out there. The guides live and breathe permit. The lodge commands a view of the ocean from its beach-side location in Punta Allen. Its open-air bar is the perfect place for happy hour in the late afternoon before dinner. It has 6 spacious guest rooms for up to 12 anglers. Each room has its own private bathroom, air-conditioning, two beds and large closets for clothes and gear. the palometa club s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$5,200-$5,900

s January through December email:

i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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M E X I C A N Y U C ATA N

Mayazul M A Y A Z U L I S located near the small beachfront town of Punta Allen, about 45 kilometers off the beaten path and approximately three hours from the popular tourist destination of Cancun, far from the distractions of everyday life. It’s perfectly situated to access their primary fishing objective – the permit. Ascension Bay has developed into one of the most prolific and diverse flats fisheries in the entire Caribbean. Blessed with miles of beautiful coastline, shallow flats, and lagoon systems, the fishing opportunities here are endless. The season is long, giving anglers over 8 months of prime weather to come and stalk these shallow water fish. Grand slams and super slams are often achieved. Ascension Bay is a destination where the fish are

getting bigger, and the saltwater fly fishing is getting better with every passing season. You’ll fish with not just one experienced guide, but two guides per boat. More eyes and more help equate to more shots and better success. There is no trailering to get to the flats, the guides will pick you up right in front of the lodge. The lodge itself is a beautiful stained wood structure, finished with comfortable lounging rooms, thoughtful amenities and four en-suite double bedrooms with queen-size beds and air-conditioning.

Campeche photo

mayazul s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$6,950-$7,350

s January through December

Campeche Tarpon O N T H E W E S T E R N side of the Mexican Yucatan Peninsula, approximately 300 miles south and east of Cancun, you’ll ﬁnd the old Spanish colonial city of Campeche. Campeche Tarpon is a perfect couples trip with fine dining, private lodging, and located in a culturally-rich colonial city with fabulous architecture, shopping and sightseeing. Campeche is also close to several Mayan ruin complexes and our outfitter or hotel concierge can assist with organizing tours. An ideal destination for non-anglers. The ﬁshing is very close to the marina and you can be casting to sighted tarpon cruising the mangrove shorelines within 15 minutes of the dock, or you might be going further up the coast looking for tarpon tucked back in the shaded mangroves where casting becomes more critical.

The fishing day at Campeche Tarpon starts very early in the morning, at the crack of dawn, which is the ideal time to target happy and hungry tarpon. The early start means an early end of the day when the sun is high, temperatures hot and the tarpon retreat to the mangroves. Campeche Tarpon anglers are based in fine hotels in the historic city of Campeche. This provides easy access to the downtown and waterfront, where regional cuisine is at its finest. The host of Campeche Tarpon is available to make dining suggestions based upon your interests. campeche tarpon s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$3,275

Dylan Rose photo

s January through December

Tarpon Cay Lodge TA R P O N C AY ’ S fishing is based out of Rio Lagartos, Mexico, a small fishing village on the northwest point of the Yucatan Peninsula. Although it is less than 3 hours by car from Cancun, it feels like you are in the middle of nowhere and all alone. A mecca for baby tarpon, the area is quiet, not overcrowded and touristy, just a real Mexican village, a beautiful place to get away and fish an amazing fishery with very little pressure or competition. The fishing for baby tarpon out of Tarpon Cay is perhaps the greatest on the Yucatan. Fishing in such a productive fishery allows you multiple opportunities every day. You’ll gain experience rapidly in the techniques and skills of tarpon fishing, quickly improving your tarpon game. w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

Fishing a split schedule, early morning and evening, has you on the water when the fish are most in the biting mode. Why spend the afternoon out in the blazing sun, looking for tarpon that have retreated to the shade? You will be napping in your airconditioned room, fully rested for a later afternoon and evening of fast and heavy fishing. Guests fishing with Tarpon Cay Lodge will be staying in a new, modern and comfortable hotel in Rio Lagartos. The lodge doesn’t like to accept more than 6 anglers at a time, so there is plenty of space. tarpon cay lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$5,400

s April through November s

phone

800-669-3474

Zack Thurman photo

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Belize

Belize isn’t a big country. But in the eyes of the saltwater ﬂy ﬁsherman it is huge.

B E L I Z E I S O N E of the most prolific saltwater fly fishing destinations in the world, with strong populations of bonefish, permit, tarpon and snook, along with jacks and barracuda. Belize is what we call an “opportunistic fishery”; multiple fish species can be encountered at any time on the water, so multiple rods each rigged differently should be carried. Belize is a small English-speaking country in Central America bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the east, dense jungle and mountainous terrain to the west and just over a two hour flight from Houston or Miami. The coastline of this Caribbean nation stretches a total of 170 miles north to south and is home to the world’s second largest barrier reef.

It is one of The Fly Shop’s favorite flats fishing destinations for anglers looking for: shots at multiple species, easy travel to and from, no language barrier, safe, and an absolutely gorgeous Carribean landscape. We also like the fact that Belize has aggressively pursued sustainable tourism and enacted many progressive environmental protective measures including banning gill nets and protecting bonefish, tarpon and permit with a national catch and release law. Tourism in Belize represents 40% of their total export of goods and services, 12% of their GDP, and creates tourism-connected jobs in excess of 35,000. Belize takes care of its people and the environment, so that we can enjoy it. We like that!

Brian O’Keefe photo

Belize River Lodge R I V E R L O D G E is nestled into the rain forest just outside Belize City. It is the easiest Belizean lodge to get to, with nearly limitless flats, mangrove shorelines, and jungle rivers just a short boat ride away. Adult (80+ pound) tarpon are regularly found near the river mouth, and just a few more minutes in the skiff will put anglers in the midst of some of the best bonefish, permit, tarpon, and snook fishing in Belize. Belize River Lodge (BRL) is a tried and proven world-class fishing operation and has been in continuous operation since 1961. It is unique in that it offers anglers an incredible variety of different angling opportunities. One thing is for sure, no matter what angling option you choose, the owners of BRL are wonderful, hard working, helpful people and run a top-notch operation.

BELIZE

Michael Caranci photos

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Anglers fly fishing here can fish shallow flats for bonefish, deeper pancake flats for permit, flats and channels for big tarpon, mangrove lagoons, inland lakes, and jungle rivers for juvenile tarpon and snook. There is something here for everyone, and it’s one of the best spots in the world for an elusive Super Slam! The lodge can accommodate up to 16 guests at one time, and is surrounded by lush tropical gardens, wellmanicured lawns, with air orchids hanging from the ancient mahogany trees interspersed among the buildings. The setting at the lodge is truly beautiful, like something out of a Tarzan movie. belize river lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package s January through December

i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

$5,775

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Blue Horizon Lodge R E O P E N E D I N 2020, it features many of the original

buildings yet with a fresh redesign that incorporates modern comforts. The goal of the redesign was to create a lodge that honors the heritage of Lincoln Westby’s original lodge, while rejuvenating it with contemporary luxury elements. The waters around Northeast Caye in Southern Belize provide ideal habitat for sight-casting to tailing permit in extremely shallow water. Countless small “pancake” ﬂats pop up out of the deep water here; the deep water

providing safety for huge populations of permit. The Blue Horizon guides are mentored by the world-famous Lincoln Westby, renowned as the father of permit and the most wellrespected guide in Belize. blue horizon lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$5,575

s January through December

Brian O’Keefe photo

Turneffe Flats Lodge T H E seaward side of the largest and most biologically diverse atoll in the Caribbean Sea is built one of the most beautiful and complete lodges in Central America. Turneffe Atoll is about 30 miles off the coast of Belize. Even the boat ride from the mainland to the lodge is exciting. Turneffe Atoll boasts the absolute best bonefishing in Belize. The ecosystem of this vast coral atoll is the ideal habitat for huge populations of boneﬁsh, many of which live their entire lives in the

shallow reefside ﬂats. The ﬁsh also tend to grow larger here than their cousins inside the reef. Their non-angling programs offer guided daily activities – snorkeling, sight-seeing, bird-watching, dolphin & manatee viewing, nature hikes, cooking classes, and more. turneffe flats lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$5,590-$6,390 Turneffe Flats photo

s January through December

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El Pescador Resort S I T U A T E D O N a private 40-acre tract on the Caribbean coast of this island is El Pescador Resort, named by Forbes Traveler as one of the top 10 luxury Eco-Resorts in the world. It’s recognized as one of the best non-angling ecoresorts in Belize. If you’re with a non-angler or family, they will enjoy the deluxe accommodations, 3 resort pools, and a broad variety of daily eco-tour options. Both anglers and non-anglers will have a wonderful holiday here!

El Pescador offers daily opportunities to target a variety of fun and exciting flats species – year round tarpon action, miles of bonefish flats, and reliable permit spots. Each of the thirteen guest rooms in the main lodge face the sea, just steps away from a swimming pool. el pescador resort s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$5,614-$6,205

s January through December Michael Caranci photo

Tarpon Caye Lodge C A Y E L O D G E sits on a private island surrounded by hundreds of square miles of exquisite fishing grounds. Permit fishing in this part of Belize is excellent and there are few places in the world that offer better shots at this challenging fish. Many of the best flats are only minutes from the island. This is your classic permit setting for those who love to target tailing fish in very shallow water. The experienced team of guides are some of the best in the business. Not only do they know these flats

TA R P O N

like the backs of their hands, they are also passionate and hard-working, loving what they do. The lodge accommodates up to 10 rods at a time, making it ideal for small groups looking for a unique setting. tarpon caye lodge s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$6,750-$7,800

s January through December

Copal Tree Lodge T H I S T R O P I C A L resort combines excellent fishing with high-end lodging, fine dining, and is considered to be among the top accommodations in Belize! This is luxury, Belizean-style, with unique lodging options that include private bungalows and suites built into the embrace of the verdant hillside jungle. Angling guests at this slightly inland resort have quick and easy access to the fish-laden flats of Punta

Copal Tree Lodge photo

Gorda where the emphasis is on permit, with opportunities for tarpon, boneﬁsh and snook. Great non-angler destination as well. copal tree lodge s Custom packages based on season s January through December

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phone

800-669-3474

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The Fly Shop’s Prime Travel Club Brought to you by people you can trust! Prime Travel is your definitive source of information on the finest fly fishing destinations in the world. Whether you are looking for a family holiday, a last-minute cancellation special, or a prime week at a high demand fishery, Prime Travel Club is a resource tool to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

Join the Prime Travel Club, at no cost. Prime Travel Categories: s Last-minute cancellations – Save up to 50% on trips…or more s Hard-to-find dates at world-class destinations s Family trips – what better way to make long-lasting memories? s Notifications about new fly fishing lodges and camps s Hosted trips with The Fly Shop’s travel team s Single anglers looking for a fishing partner s Destinations best suited for couples s Corporate & incentive travel s Discounted trips Hook up today . . . just use the QR Code or go to our website: https://www.theflyshop.com/prime-travel.html

It’s Easy to Sign up s Scan this code and go to The Fly Shop® website s Provide your name and e-mail address s Select the travel categories and updates you’re interested in receiving. Stay Tuned! s The Fly Shop® will notify you of special travel opportunities, last-minute cancellations, prime available dates at high-demand fly fishing spots, information about hosted trips, discounted trips, or the chance to hook up with another single angler looking for a fishing partner. We promise not to flood your inbox or bother you with junk! We’ll only send you the information that you’ve requested!

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BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR, MEXICO

La Ventana East Cape Region L O C A T E D I N the East Cape region of

southern Baja, cradled between the Sea of Cortez and the Laguna Mountains, La Ventana is a fly fishing getaway to one of the finest fisheries on the planet. The Sea of Cortez has some of the world’s greatest oceanographic extremes. Less than 150 miles in width and up to 14,000 feet in depth, the typically calm waters of the Sea of Cortez often look more like a lake than an ocean. Black and striped marlin, sailfish, wahoo, yellowfin tuna, roosterfish, dorado and many other species frequent the waters, and fishing for them often begins just off the beach.

Mag Bay B A Y remains a quiet destination with a huge diversity of incredible fishing opportunities. Bahia Magdelena, known as “Mag Bay” and its adjacent waters are wellsheltered from the Pacific Ocean behind three barrier islands. The ecosystem is spectacularly healthy, unspoiled and life is abundant. It’s not uncommon to see whales, dolphins, birds dive-bombing bait balls, tuna crashing the surface, big floating surrounding dorado structures, and countless free swimming marlin. Magdalena Bay is a blue-water fly fishing paradise. The variety of sport fishing opportunities accessed from Bahia Magdalena, both inshore and offshore, are overwhelming. One day you can be

MAGDALENA

Eric Ersch photo

Sea of Cortez

Anglers will be fishing with a team of guides with decades of experience. They are fantastic, a huge part of what makes a trip to The Fish Ranch so memorable. They understand how to work with fly fishers, and appreciate the added challenge it takes to catch fish on a fly. Your base for the trip is a private beachfront home in the village of La Ventana. The accommodations and meals are superb by all standards. la ventana s 6 Night / 5 Day package

$5,400

s April through September

Pacific Ocean offshore casting ﬂies to striped marlin, frenzied tuna or dorado and the next sneaking along a mangrove-lined shore, sight-casting to cruising snook, pargo, and more. The accommodations are located in the small town of Adolfo Lopez Mateos. Three modern casitas surround a large palapa area, lush with palms and native plants for relaxing and sharing ﬁshing tales. Each casita features two queen beds, private full bath, small kitchen, and a private-screened porch. The area has high-speed internet, cell service, and 24-hour electricity with a generator for backup up power.

La Ventana photo

The Reel Baja photo

mag bay s 6 Night / 5 Day package

$6,000

s September through December

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HONDURAS

Fly Fish Guanaja F L Y F I S H G U A N A J A is an all-inclusive saltwater fly-fishing lodge in the Bay Islands of Honduras. The lodge sits in the perfect spot with numerous permit flats within a 5-minute boat ride. With no other lodges on the island and due to the location of the lodge, you will be the first and only boats on the flats. It would be hard to imagine a destination more perfectly suited for permit fishing. Each day anglers are within minutes of a vast array of flats which, in rising and falling tides, can be loaded with tailing permit. Typically, anglers and guides will plan their schedules around the tides, fishing whatever hours give the best shots during favorable tides. On top of Guanaja’s world-class permit fishing, anglers can also target bonefish and tarpon if they’d like a little extra action. The lodge is nicely laid out and extremly comfortable. There are five newly-constructed double occupancy cabins, each furnished

with two full size beds and a private bathroom, complete with on-demand hot water showers and flush toilets. Air-conditioning is standard in all of the rooms, providing guests the option of enjoying the ocean breeze or a controlled climate. Each room is extremely spacious with plenty of shelving, and hangers to organize your gear. Upstairs at the lodge, you will find one of the nicest open air bars in the entire Caribbean, serving anything that you can imagine. The dartboard and ring toss are a favorite way for anglers to pass the time each evening. The dining area is adjacent to the bar, serving some of the most delicious meals that you will ever find at a lodge. fly fish guanaja s 7 Night / 6 Day package s February through October s Great Value

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$4,950

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G UAT E M A L A

Casa Vieja Lodge T H I S A R E A is said to hold one of the highest concentrations of sailfish anywhere, and it is easily accessible. With numbers like 57 releases with a fly rod from one boat in ONE DAY, one can see why chances are greater of hooking billfish here on a fly than any other place on earth. The first step to successful sailfishing is having incredibly high populations of fish in the water, but to be as consistently successful as the Casa Vieja team is takes more than just a lot of fish – it takes skilled boat captains and talented two to three-man crews to find the fish, tease them to within casting distance, and help an angler bring it boatside for a healthy release.

Casa Vieja uses the best sailfish captains and crews in Guatemala. They understand how to work with fly fishers, and appreciate the added challenge it takes to catch and release sailfish on a fly rod. Not to be outdone by the fishing, the Casa Vieja Lodge is every bit of a 4-star luxury hotel just a five-minute drive from the marina. There are 20 rooms for a maximum occupancy of 38 guests. Each room features 2 queen beds and en suite bathrooms. Every room has air-conditioning, 110-volt electricity, and free Wi-Fi.

Casa Vieja photo

casa vieja lodge s 4 Night / 3 Day package

$3,915-$7,995

s January through December

COLOMBIA

Michael Caranci photos

Anigua Pacific Lodge PACIFIC LODGE is located in Colombia’s remote Chocó region, and surrounded by unexplored jungle and rugged mountains, Bahía Solano is a saltwater paradise for anglers. With an extraordinary diversity of species and very little fishing pressure, this remote destination remains one of the last true sportfishing frontiers. Whether you are fishing inshore or offshore, Bahía Solano is home to a huge variety of big game species including blue and black marlin, Pacific sailfish, yellowfin tuna, roosterfish, tarpon, Cubera snapper, wahoo, and many other species. With so many fish in the water, it’s rare to go long without seeing the pulsing flash of a brilliantlycolored fish, and double-digit hookups are common.

ANIGUA

Afloat operates with two boats (38-ft and 26-ft Bertrams) and can host up to 8 anglers. They have state-of-the-art Garmin navigation equipment, refrigerated compartments for fish storage, and plenty of other amenities to keep you comfortable while battling any of these big-game fish. The accommodations and meals at Anigua Pacific Lodge are superb. Their highly-skilled chef takes his job seriously, and is one of the best we have experienced.

Aniqua Pacific Lodge photo

anigua pacific lodge s 5 Night / 4.5 Day package

$3,600-$7,700 (depending on angler count) s Early November through late April

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800-669-3474

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Fly Castaway photo

The Indian Ocean

The sheer size, number, and variety of Indian Ocean fish species that have been introduced to the sport has rocked the world of fly fishing, and anglers from around the world are lining up. T H E I S L A N D S A N D A T O L L S of the Seychelles and Mauritius are a long way from anything, which is what has protected and preserved these insanely beautiful fisheries for us to marvel at today. The diversity of fish species available here to stalk and cast to is absolutely unbelievable, from giant trevally (GT’s) to milkfish, and triggerfish to bumphead parrotfish, this place will blow your mind with new and exciting targets that you can’t find in most saltwater destinations. This place is the definition of exotic.

All of the different fisheries are well-known for their diversity, but even here, each option is absolutely unique. Some places are all about the GT’s, while others are home to the best Indo-Pacific permit fishing in the Eastern Hemisphere. Others are just about variety and how many different species you can add to your life list, from the ubiquitous bonefish to the one-of-a-kind bumphead parrotfish, milkfish and Napoleon Wrasse. And, of course, the monstrous GT’s, the “Gangsters of the Flats,” are a regular sight marauding the edges of the shallow water. Each atoll is different, offering something for every saltwater angler with an adventurous spirit.

Alphonse Island Resort A L P H O N S E I S legendary as one of the ﬁnest Seychelles saltwater

fly fisheries in the world. The flats of nearby St. Francois Atoll offer over 10,000-acres of perfect wading, limited to just 12 rods a week. Alphonse offers a veritable paradise for the flats angler, including huge schools of large bonefish patrolling the vast area of white flats. Indo-Pacific permit offer all the challenges of their Atlantic cousins, while powerful triggerfish crunch crab patterns on the reef and flats edges. Anglers are guided by experienced guides using the latest skiffs and equipment in the pursuit of the vast number of species to be targeted. With more than 60 species landed on the fly each season, Alphonse offers bonefish in extraordinary numbers, trevally, milkfish, triggerfish, Indo-Pacific permit, and a host of other reef and flats species.

Seychelles

The bonefishing at St. Francois is as diverse as the fishery itself and will cater to all levels of anglers. Whether you’re after tailing singles or mudding shoals, the guides have the ability to make it happen. St. Francois is rumored to have the densest population of bonefish recorded worldwide. What truly distinguishes this as one of the most superb fishing destinations in the world is the combination of deluxe hotel accommodations alongside the opportunity to fish 3 different islands right on your doorstep. Alphonse Island boasts a single exclusive resort made up of beach bungalows and villas. Built alongside the water’s edge, each accommodation enjoys spectacular ocean views. alphonse island resort s 7 Night/6 Day package

$15,280

s Late October through early May

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Farquhar Atoll FARQUHAR

I S the most southerly atoll in the

Seychelles chain of islands, lying just over 400 miles to the southwest of the main island, Mahe. This remote atoll has a total area, including the large lagoon, of 65 square miles, and measures 11 miles north to south and 5.5 miles east to west. The flats at Farquhar consist of hard white sand, turtle grass, and broken coral, making for comfortable wading. Anglers can wade and sight fish to an impressive variety of species which include bonefish, various trevally species including the ferocious, trophy-sized giant trevally, Indo-Pacific permit, triggerfish, barracuda, bumphead parrotfish, and milkfish. Deeper water begins very close to shore, and spending time tussling with some of the monsters which prowl the deep blue is certainly an exciting and

Seychelles

rewarding bonus. The most common species are giant trevally, barracuda, wahoo, yellowﬁn tuna, dogtooth tuna, grouper, bohar snapper, and shots at sailﬁsh. Guests are accommodated in duplex style chalets, each containing two bedrooms. Each bedroom is fully air-conditioned, has two single beds and an en-suite bathroom. Rooms are equipped with 24-hour, 220 volt electricity and have a constant supply of hot water. Meals prepared by the chef are a mix of Creole and international-style dishes. farquhar atoll s 7 Night / 6 Day package

Saint Brandon’s Atoll S T.

B R A N D O N ’ S I S a group of over 50 small islands in the Mauritius, made up of coral ridges and vast sand flats which is cut by three major passes and extends 31 miles from north to south. Situated 268 nautical miles north-east of Mauritius’s main island, this area is rich in fish stocks, flora and fauna. Recognized as the best bonefish angling destination on the planet, on most tides anglers can expect to see an endless parade of bonefish, both as schools of 4-6 pound fish and enormous singles and doubles that can easily push into double-digit weights. You will catch more, and bigger bonefish here than anywhere else on Earth. It is also the most productive Indo-Pacific permit fishery we’ve ever found. The flats here are ideal habitat for permit, and with no impacts from commercial fishing the populations are as high as you

I S a true ﬂats ﬁshing wilderness.

There is no population living at Providence, which is just short of being the most southerly atoll in the Seychelles. Getting there requires a charter flight first from Mahé to a grass landing strip. This remarkable atoll has remained largely untouched, with fewer than a thousand visitors in the past century. Offering incredible diversity, anglers can expect to target record-size giant trevally, bonefish, triggerfish, Indo-Pacific permit, milkfish and bumphead parrotfish. Deep water begins very close to shore and offshore fishing for dogtooth tuna, giant trevally, barracuda, wahoo, yellowfin tuna, sailfish and even the occasional marlin can be just a few meters away.

Mauritius

will find anywhere. When specifically targeting these gloriously finicky fish, guests are often afforded multiple shots per day. The flats of St. Brandon’s are perfect for wading. These flats are primarily made up of white compacted sand, ideal for easy wading, all day long. This allows you to get closer to the fish, and stalk bonefish in singles and pairs. Guests are accommodated in a simple but comfortable guesthouse on Raphael Island. There are 4 bedrooms in the house, each containing two comfortable single beds and basic amenities.

Fly Castaway photos

saint brandon’s atoll s 10 Night / 7 Day package

$12,075

s April - June and October - December

Providence Atoll PROVIDENCE

$16,600

s October through April (closed in January)

Seychelles

Providence features amazing chances to wade pristine saltwater flats. Anglers here have access to 30 miles of pristine white sand and turtle grass flats, an enormous lagoon system, as well as numerous channels which link these structures with the Indian Ocean. Maya’s Dugong is an extremely well-equipped expedition vessel which boasts the most experienced crew in the region. The 150-foot vessel can sleep 14 guests in 7 double cabins making her the ideal vessel for long-range fly fishing expeditions in this area. The spacious vessel’s large public areas allow for maximum enjoyment of guests’ time onboard. providence atoll s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$16,950

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OMAN

Arabian Fly Oman is the best place to target T.Africanus permit. There may not even be a runner-up.

Arabian Fly Outfitters photo

O M A N I S the hotspot anglers now seek in the Arabian Sea, and Arabian Fly has become the top fly fishing outfitter in the Middle East. This fishery is extremely unique for a very big reason it is really the only place on Earth where you can catch the 3rd and most elusive species of permit, the Trachinotus Africanus. If you are a permit junkie, this trip has to be at the top of your list! The Africanus act differently than Atlantic permit (T. Falcatus) or IndoPacific permit (T. Blochii). Anglers often target Africanus from the boat as they feed on submerged coral or rock piles, in rolling waves crashing against the sheer cliffs of the Oman coastline. It is quite a different experience from the typical skinny water flats where the permit earned their reputation for being so spooky! There is still some of that, though with Indo-Pacific permit also available, tailing along the white sand beaches without cliffs.

You will stay at the Juweira Boutique Hotel, inside the Hawana Marina resort complex. This all-inclusive 4star hotel is situated along the white sandy beaches of the Arabian Sea with a stunning backdrop of the Jebel Samhan Mountains. The hotel offers luxurious rooms with air-conditioning, perfect to relax after a long, hot day out on the water. Rooms are comfortable and spacious. Amenities include two international restaurants, a bar, two swimming pools, and a wellness center with treatment rooms. This is a great destination to extend any trip to the Seychelles or Africa. It’s reasonably priced by comparison, and is accessed via Dubai, which you are most likely routing through anyways. arabian fly sport fishing s 7 Night / 6 Day packages

Seasonal pricing s October through May

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VENEZUELA

Los Roques The Fly Shop® helped pioneer Los Roques and hosted the first group of anglers ever licensed to fish this magnificent archipelago in March of 1987. L O S R O Q U E S I S the centerpiece of Venezuela’s off-shore national park system and a saltwater fly fishing paradise. The Los Roques archipelago is 95 miles off the coast of the mainland and is a fly fishing attraction because of the light-colored, firmbottomed flats that often seem to stretch to the horizon. Nearly every inch of the shallow flats surrounding the 354 cays of this magnificent archipelago can be waded, and both the size and the number of bones is impressive. Tailing bonefish on the flats of Los Roques are legendary. Almost as important to the angler is that bonefishing is done here the way many anglers prefer it, on foot. While other species such as tarpon, triggerfish, parrotfish, snook, barracuda and the occasional permit abound, it’s typically the world-class bonefishing that keeps Los Roques in focus for the discerning saltwater angler. Los Roques is blessed with a near equatorial location (12°North) and climate, similar to Christmas Island,

with year-round great weather, few mosquitoes and manageable winds. Our choice of outfitters is Ramon Paz, partner of the late Chris Yrazabal. Ramon’s super-savvy native guides have fishing in their blood. They combine the eyes of an osprey, an uncanny understanding of the intricate tides, a super work ethic, and a great attitude. These talented guides have been well-trained in the demands of the saltwater fly fishermen. Accommodations at Acuarela Lodge, located in the charming village of Gran Roque, are excellent. Angling guests have the option of staying in beautiful single or double occupancy airconditioned rooms with ceiling fans and private bathrooms. The lodge serves delicious multi-course dinners with regional flavors, known to be some of the best on the island. los roques s 7 Nights / 6 Day package

$7,160

s December through January

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Christmas Island

Christmas Island is undoubtedly the best-known international boneﬁshing destination on the planet; what it’s not known for is the incredible diversity of angling opportunities.

Shane Kohlbeck photo

Chris King photo

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C H R I S T M A S I S L A N D earned its fame as one of — if not the — most prolific bonefish destinations anywhere, and fly rodders have made this remote Pacific atoll a must-fish for saltwater fly fishing locales for decades. As the world of international saltwater fly fishing destinations has exploded in recent years, the Republic of Kiribati remains enamored in the hearts of bonefish anglers everywhere – and it is still among the best places anywhere to wade-fish shallow sand and coral flats for the mystic ghosts of the flats. Because Christmas Island is so near the Equator, the weather patterns and angling are reliable nearly all 365 days of the year. A trip to Christmas Island is a must for flats fishermen and a welcome escape for snowbirds searching for winter sun, fun and fish. Bonefishing at Christmas Island is done the way it should be: on foot. Fly fishers spend the entire day stalking these wary fish, usually on solid, white-bottomed flats that often stretch as far as the eye can see. It is action-packed angling by any standard. Experienced flats anglers recognize that there is no place in the world that offers better bonefishing. In addition to the great bonefishing, there are many other exciting fish species you can target on Christmas Island. The atoll is home to several different species of trevally, including the notorious giant trevally, beautiful and powerful bluefin trevally, and rare golden trevally. And don’t forget about those toothy, finicky triggerfish. Opportunities abound to put a bend on the end of your rod at Christmas Island.

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The Villages of Christmas Island F I R S T O P E N E D in June of 2006, “The Villages” has

quickly become renowned as the best location and best all-around program on Christmas Island. Located on the white sand of Discovery Beach, The Villages overlooks the aqua-marine waters of the atoll’s vast lagoon. Its location puts it only a short 5 10 minute skiff ride to several expansive, easily-waded flats teeming with bonefish. There are 2 distinct advantages to fishing with The Villages. The first is that your boat meets you just a few steps from your beach bungalow. Anglers are transported to the fishing in versatile South Pacificstyle, sea-worthy skiffs to the productive bonefish flats and to the reef drop-offs for exciting light tackle tuna, trevally, wahoo, rainbow runners and bonito. They have eliminated the use of pick-up trucks, except for a few choice, ocean-side and shoreline flats, so that anglers are able to maximize valuable fishing time. Because of their ideal location and focus on boat transportation, guides and anglers fishing with The Villages are usually the first to the flats every day, and the last off, giving increased fishing time. As an added bonus, a few years back the guide team at The Villages decided to do something that had never been done on the island before. Rather than the typical two anglers per guide that is found almost everywhere else in the world, The Villages now

employs a distinct, one-to-one guide ratio, with every angling guest fishing with their own private guide, every day. This translates into more shots at bonefish, trevally, and the variety of other flats and reef fishes. All of the guides are experienced and knowledgeable in all types of fishing, and their incredible eyesight on the flats can often make the difference in how many good shots you have on any given day. Accommodations at The Villages are basic but comfortable, with nice beachside bungalows featuring essential air-conditioning, hot water, refrigerators, and everything you need to enjoy your time in the South Pacific. The Villages features 8 air-conditioned, double twin-bed bungalows plus 4 smaller single-occupancy cabins, comfortably accommodating up to 16 anglers at a time. There is a private bathroom with shower and hot/cold water in each unit and a porch with views of Discovery Beach and the lagoon. There is a refrigerator in each of the rooms and bottled water, sodas and beer are also available from the bar.

Dylan Rose photos

the villages of christmas island $4,390 s January through December s 7 Night / 6 Day package

Christmas Island Outfitters E N D L E S S H A R D sand flats, notable numbers of cruising bonefish and trevally, and highly-consistent year round weather await all who visit this remarkable atoll. Whether you are an experienced angler returning for your tenth trip or a novice keen on honing your flats-fishing skills, you’ll find the ultimate in flats wade-fishing at Christmas Island Outfitters. With some of the best guides of the island and catering to smaller groups of anglers, Christmas Island Outfitters formed a few years ago and has grown in popularity so much that it is hard to find space during the winter months unless reservations are made well in advance. They brag about fishing according to the tides and conditions instead of meal schedules.

Christmas Island Outﬁtters is a small operation taking a maximum of twelve anglers per week. The lodge is located just north of the main village of London and a very short 3-minute drive to the harbor, providing easy access for daily excursions into the lagoon Accommodations are rustic, simple, and comfortable. Each room is conﬁgured to house 2 anglers and has a private bathroom. Rooms are basic, relatively rustic but kept clean and feature ample space for your gear. All units do have A/C! Your room will be cleaned and restocked with soda, water and beer every day during your stay. Each unit is equipped with screened windows, fans, a small refrigerator, and a plastic table and chairs.

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christmas island outfitters $3,250 s January through December s 7 Night / 6 Day package

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800-669-3474

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Australia

Australia is the last saltwater fly fishing frontier of major significance left on the planet. It has long been on our radar, and after traveling there on three different exploratory trips to vet what Australia has to offer, we are thoroughly convinced that these mind-blowing fisheries in “The Land Down Under” are the real deal, offering unpressured waters, new species, and professional outfitters.

Australia – the Last Saltwater Frontier!

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Cape York T H E D I V E R S I T Y of species in the coastal waters of

Cape York, Far North Queensland, can’t be overstated. It’s literally unbelievable how many strange, beautiful, random fish species you will encounter while targeting multiple trophy fish that you can’t find anywhere else on earth. A grand slam of barramundi, blue bastard, milkfish and the elusive Anak permit is a unique and incredible feat! As passionate anglers, constantly searching for purewild, we never cease in our search for unexploited places where we can experience Mother Nature, unmolested. For anglers searching for opportunities to cast at fish that have never seen a fly, Cape York, Australia, has to be near the top of your hit list. The Gulf of Carpentaria ranks as one of the wildest saltwater angling places left on this planet, with fishing that is unmatched anywhere else on Earth. Cape York offers unmatched species diversity. Anglers can expect to target Anak permit, blue bastard, milkfish, barramundi, black spot tuskfish, queenfish, golden trevally, giant trevally, tea leaf, diamond and other trevally species, multiple tuna species, the wonderful and amazing mudskipper and many, many more! Australia is one of the best places on earth to pad your list of life species, and it is the only place on earth where you can tick a lot of those boxes.

The remote location that Weipa Sports Fishing utilizes has zero competition. You can drive a boat 2 hours in any direction from the 65-foot mothership’s anchorage and not see another angler. This lack of pressure ensures that the fishing will always be as good as it can be when you get there, and lack of pressure always means that you catch more fish. The diversity of types of water and types of fishing is amazing. You can sight-cast for fish in the shallow flats, fish the thousands of fingers of mangrove-lined channels in the estuary, and you can even go out into the bluewater and target pelagic fish. The Eclipse D, a 65-foot Power Catamaran, is an extremely well-equipped expedition vessel which boasts the most experienced crew in the region. This vessel can sleep 8 guests comfortably in double occupancy cabins. The very spacious vessel’s large public areas are perfect for relaxing with the entire group. The covered top deck is the place to be after an awesome day on the water. Cocktail hour and hors d’oeuvres will be served at the large dining table followed by a filling dinner for all of the guests.

Justin Miller photos

cape york s 6 Night / 6 Day package

$10,466

s Late February through late December

East Cape Flats EAST COAST angling team has been exploring the northern stretch of the 1,429-mile Great Barrier Reef for years and have discovered the best wadable flats for tailing Indo-Pacific permit and blue bastards. Here, on the east coast of the Cape York Peninsula, you will find the most remote stretches of coastline along the entire reef, with almost zero coastal inhabitants north of Cooktown all the way to the tip of Australia. There is just no one there, and the fish act like it. East Coast Angling expeditions host small groups of just six anglers a week to wade these untouched flats. The permit and blue bastards are the main event, but you will find more than just them feeding on these hard, shallow, sand and coral rubble flats, such as chinaman, GT’s, queenfish, golden trevally and others. These trips are a wading paradise, no fishing from a skiff. The mothership can change position with

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different anchorages as necessary so that you have opportunities to fish multiple flats and stay on fresh, new, unpressured fish throughout the trip. At the end of each day you will return to the luxurious mothership, the “Savannah”, an 80foot expedition vessel with three very comfortable staterooms. The views in the afternoon from the sundeck are priceless after a day’s fishing, with a cold beverage and a great social lounge in the main salon. You’ll be greeted with canapés on return from your days fishing, followed by a sit-down, twocourse meal. east cape flats s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$13,000 AUD

s September through early November

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Lower 48 Easy travel, no passport required

The Fly Shop® staff has spent a good deal of their adult lives fly fishing and guiding in the Rockies, Florida and the Gulf Coast states. Mike Mercer has been fishing Montana every year for two weeks at a time, for the past 35 years. Chris King in our Travel Department lived in Breckenridge, CO, and has fished and guided a ton of trout waters in the Rockies. Eric Ersch, our saltwater flishing expert, was both a Florida and a Texas Gulf Coast guide before he came to work for us. Justin Miller has been up and down the Washington and Oregon coast swinging flies for chrome steelhead and Erik Argotti lived, worked and fished in Montana for 24 years. Collectively, we have the knowledge base and field experience to help you arrange a world-class fly fishing experience in the lower 48 states. The lodges we have assembled are a collection of friends we have fished with, a cross-section of some of the best outfitters we know of, and we trust them to deliver a great fly fishing experience.

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ARKANSAS

White River Trout Club W H I T E R I V E R in northern Arkansas is home to some of the largest brown trout in North America. Giant brown trout have helped put this tailwater fishery on the angling map. The 100-mile stretch of water below Bull Shoals Dam is prime trout habitat; consistent cold water and a constant food source allows these fish to grow fast, all year long. Although most anglers come to land a trophy brown, the rainbow trout are getting bigger every year and there are cutthroat and brook trout to add variety to the angling day. With consistent year round water temperatures, warm ambient air temperatures and a constant supply of aquatic insects, scuds, sculpin, shad, crayfish and small trout, White River trout have a steady supply of food to choose from. These fish eat and grow year round which allow them to reach epic proportions. Not only will you be catching fish, they will be big! Brown trout average 19-22˝ and can get up to 20 pounds, and the rainbows average size is getting bigger every year Although many tailwaters claim to be year round fisheries, many rivers out west are limited by cold winter weather and ambient temperatures. The temperate climate of northern Arkansas creates a true, year round trout fishery. You don’t have to worry about securing prime dates years in advance. Any dates you pick will always put you there at a time where conditions are ideal for fly fishing for big and plentiful fish.

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With the White River Trout Club being literally a stone’s throw from the river and 8 miles below Bull Shoals Dam, we couldn’t think of a better location to fish from for a few days or a week. You are minutes from the best stretches of water on the entire river. No trailering boats on long drives. You walk from your cabin to the dock and you are fishing. Less time traveling to and from the fisheries means more time on the water and more worldclass fly fishing for trout. At White River Trout Club all anglers are accommodated in single occupancy rooms that typically share a bathroom. No need to share a room with another guest, and no need to bring ear plugs to ensure a good nights sleep. WRTC works with two different catering business that crank out amazing dinners, ranging from pasta dishes to ﬁsh, steak, and salads. Breakfasts are typically pretty quick grab-and-go type pastries or a sausage biscuit and fruit, and of course coffee and orange juice. Lunch is typically sandwiches with chips, pickle, and a cookie or other dessert. white river trout club s 4 Night / 3 Day package

$3,200-$3,600

s Shorter and longer stay options available s Year ‘round tailwater fishery

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800-669-3474

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Montana I S “Big Sky Country,” although its nickname is “The Treasure State” due to its large deposits of gold and silver. We like “Big Sky Country” better. Montana is the fourth largest state in the Union, boasting 145,552 square miles of land, and sharing borders with three Canadian provinces – British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan. With close to 170,000 miles of rivers and streams and 3,000 named lakes and reservoirs, it’s no wonder that Montana is considered the mecca of Rocky Mountain trout fly fishing. The Madison, Yellowstone, Gallatin, Missouri, Bighorn – and the Blackfoot, the inspiration for the iconic book “A River Runs Through it” – all reside in Montana. Montana is home to two of our country’s largest and most popular national parks, Glacier National Park at over a million acres and a part of Yellowstone National Park at over 2.2 million acres. We love “Big Sky Country” and its prolific trout fly fishing.

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Madison River Lodge

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A T Madison River Lodge allows guests to enjoy an all-

inclusive experience just steps away from the legendary Madison River. The location simply can't be beat as the lodge is situated in the center of the famous Upper Madison “50-mile riffle.” This lodge couldn’t be in a better place to take full advantage of all Montana has to offer. The Madison, Big Hole, Ruby, Jefferson and Yellowstone National Park are all within driving distance. The fly fishing possibilities are endless. The lodge has 5 guest rooms with a maximum occupancy of 10 anglers to preserve a warm and intimate atmosphere. The rooms each have 2 queen beds and a private bath. Each room also has a walk-out deck that overlooks the river. s 6 Night / 5 Day package

$6,050

s May through mid November

Missouri Cliffs Lodge M I S S O U R I R I V E R is home to one of the most abundant brown and rainbow populations in the United States. The 40-mile stretch from Holter Dam to Cascade is home to 3,500 - 5,500 trout per mile. Not only are there high numbers of fish, these fish are girthy for their length and some of the hottest trout in Montana. Missouri Cliffs is centrally located in the heart of the Missouri River Canyon at roughly the midpoint of the tailwater reach, which spans from Wolf Creek to Cascade, allowing for great access to the entire fishery. The lodge sits at the top of a dramatic band of cliffs overlooking the river. It features 5 guest rooms, and a maximum occupancy of 12 anglers.

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s 6 Night / 5 Day package

$6,050

s April through October

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Madison Valley Ranch L O C A T E D I N the beautiful Madison Valley near the

town of Ennis, the self-described Trout Capital of the United States. Madison Valley Ranch offers guided fly fishing on nearby waters, great accommodations, and a relaxing western outdoor experience. At Madison Valley Ranch you can expect to be taken care of by true professionals. From the guides to the kitchen staff and the hospitality team, this group of superstars knows what it takes to deliver a fantastic fly fishing travel experience. The lodge is located just down from the bridge in Ennis. This section of the river - known as “The Channels” and flowing along two miles of the lodge property – is the gem of the Madison River. This is

also right at the bottom of the “50-mile riffle”, the famous section between Quake Lake and Ennis, makes for an endless and ideal trout habitat. Access to the lower section of this river is perfect, as it allows lodge guests to fish a less trafficked area on the river. The 9,000-square foot lodge was constructed using insulated panels and concrete siding. These improvements have taken Madison Valley Ranch to the next level of elegance and comfort without sacrificing their traditional and welcoming reputation. s 6 Night / 5 Day package

Madison Valley Ranch photo

$6,675

s Late March through October

Madison Double R L O C AT E D

I N the beautiful Madison Valley just

south of Ennis. With 1,200 acres on 2 miles of Madison River frontage just south of iconic Varney Bridge, Madison Double R offers guided fly fishing on nearby trout waters, luxury accommodations, and a relaxing western outdoor experience. This is the fishery other trout fly fishing rivers are measured against and should be a pilgrimage for any serious fly fisherman. What is even better is having the Madison’s famous “Miracle Mile” running right through the property. Drive times are short when you want to hit these hallowed waters.

This lodge couldn’t be in a better location to take advantage of all Montana has to offer. The Madison, Big Hole, Ruby, Jefferson and Yellowstone National Park are all close by and within easy striking distance. The possibilities are endless. The lodge is comprised of two buildings connected with an outdoor trellised terrace. The lounge portion features a full bar with premium wines, beers, and spirits, a ﬁreplace, two TVs, and an outdoor covered ﬁreplace porch. s 5 Night / 4 Day package

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Missouri River Lodge photo

$7,125

s Early March through October

Missouri River Lodge L O C AT E D

O N the Missouri River in Central

Montana. The Missouri River is home to one of the most abundant rainbow and brown trout populations in the United States. The 40-mile stretch from Holter Dam to Cascade is home to 3,500–5,500 trout per mile. Not only are the numbers of fish impressive and the overall average size exceptional, these fish are girthy for their length and some of the hottest trout we’ve hooked. The Missouri below Holter Dam offers some of the finest and most predictable dry fly fishing in all of the Rockies. As well, the nymphing is highly productive all season.

For those who like to throw streamers, early and late season can provide epic action. There is even the option to ﬂoat or wade other nearby rivers and streams. The lodge is a beautifully-constructed two-story native log building that will accommodate no more than 12 - 14 anglers, ensuring a relaxing and comfortable ﬁshing holiday. The lodge houses guests in seven large, rustic, and uniquely decorated rooms. Each room has two queen-size beds. s 6 Night / 5 Day package

On DeMark Lodge photos

$4,800

s April through October

On DeMark Lodge the Missouri River in Central Montana. This is a family-run operation with a lot of heart, attention to detail, and commited to taking care of folks. Sometimes you just want to get away with a group of friends and create your own atmosphere. There aren’t many places where you can have a lodge takeover with a small group of buddies. At On DeMark Lodge, with a maximum occupancy of 6 anglers, this is the perfect opportunity to create great memories on and off the river in an intimate setting with a small group of good friends and/or family. The simple, log-sided lodge is a comfortable, intimate retreat where you can relax after a long day of

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catching ﬁsh on the Mighty Mo. Big gable windows allow lots of light in, and there’s a nice open deck facing the river on which to relax and enjoy a cocktail before or after dinner. Each room has two queen beds. The simple, log-sided lodge is a comfortable, intimate retreat where you can relax after a long day of catching ﬁsh on the Mighty Mo. Big gable windows allow lots of light in, and there’s a nice open deck facing the river on which to relax and enjoy a cocktail before or after dinner. Each room has two queen beds. s 6 Night / 5 Day package s April through October

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$4,500

s Great Montana value!

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M O N TA N A

The Ultimate Road Trip Y O U R inner “Trout Bum” and explore Montana in style as you take off on The Ultimate Road Trip. With their mobile camp program they can ensure their guests will always be at the “right place at the right time,” making this one of the best Montana fly-fishing trips available! Armed with a traveling armada of diesel trucks, No Boundaries campers, wall tents, a mobile kitchen, rafts, drift boats, chefs and first-class fishing guides, you will sample the best water Montana has to offer. From drift boat rivers like the Yellowstone, Madison or Missouri to wade fishing opportunities on technical spring creeks like Armstrong, Nelson’s and De Puys, on The Ultimate Road Trip you have the

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option to spend the week fishing a lot of different rivers or styles of fishing every day. Fish from a raft on the tumbling Boulder one day, take a lazy drift boat trip down the lower Yellowstone the next. The day after that you can test your skills for selective trout on a private spring creek, or boulder-hop on a fastmoving freestone stream. Guests enjoy deluxe accommodations including high-clearance No Boundaries campers, large outfitter tents or wing tarps for the outdoor kitchen, and fantastic streamside meals. s 7 Night / 6 Day package

$7,140

s Late March through October

Missoula River Lodge M I S S O U L A R I V E R L O D G E is a wonderful ﬁshing

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destination in Missoula, Montana, that specializes in dry fly fishing on the Bitterroot, Clark Fork, Rock Creek, and Blackfoot rivers in western Montana. With five different rivers to choose from and over 400 miles of river to float, your options are endless. It would take lifetimes to explore and get to know all the rivers in the area, but luckily the guides have it dialed in for you. Missoula River Lodge is a dry fly focused fishing lodge. Many lodges like to fish dries, but here they do it just about every day. With all the floating options,

there is always somewhere to target ﬁsh on top. Their Trout Bluff Lodge is perched on a high rock bluff over Montana’s Clark Fork River a stone’s throw away from their private drift boat launch. Single luxury rooms are standard at no extra charge. The rooms are spacious, well-appointed, quiet, and perfectly ﬁt 4 - 6 anglers of the same group. The great room is the space for relaxing, looking out over the river to catch nature’s drama. s 6 Night / 5 Day package

$4,335

s June through October

Kingfisher Lodge O N the Bighorn River in Southeastern Montana, this world-class fly fishing lodge has been hosting and guiding fly fishing guests on the famous Bighorn River for 27 continuous years. The Bighorn River is home to one of the most abundant brown and rainbow trout populations in the United States. The river has a history of holding trout counts of 3,000-4,000 fish per mile. Not only are the numbers of the fish impressive but the size of the fish is equally exceptional. Trout sizes average between 14˝18˝, with 24˝ trout lurking in these fabled waters.

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Do you want to float all day? Get out and wade? Walk a small back channel and sight fish to some rising fish? Throw some streamers? You can do all of this on the Bighorn. It’s a great river for beginners, or advanced anglers who want to cast small dries in a calm backwater. Kingfisher accommodates a maximum of 16 guests at one time, assuring a personable and relaxing lodge experience. Each room features queen beds with ensuite bathrooms, mini fridge, and heat and air. s 6 Night / 5 Day package s May through October

$3,770

s Great Montana value!

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Boulder River Outpost T H I S C O M F O R T A B L E little lodge is nestled on the banks of the East Fork of the Boulder River and is a perfect spot for a small group of anglers that are looking for a place they can unwind after ﬁshing and have it all to themselves. With a max capacity of 8, groups as small as 3 anglers will have the lodge exclusively for their stay. From drift boat rivers like the Yellowstone to wade ﬁshing opportunities on technical spring creeks like Armstrong, Nelson’s, and De Puys, at Boulder River

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Outpost you have a ton of options – you can spend the week fishing a different river or style of fishing every day! They leave nothing to chance! They’ll supply everything for your fly-fishing trip including waders, rods, flies, meals, beer and wine…all you need to do is show up and enjoy yourself in a relaxed “fishing camp” vibe. s 6 Night / 5 Day package

$5,660

s Mid April through mid October email:

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M O N TA N A

Ruby Springs Lodge L O C A T E D O N 3,500 private acres in the Ruby Valley, just outside the ranching town of Alder, Montana, the lodge has over 10 miles of the fabled Ruby River and its tributaries ﬂowing through the lodge property, offering world-class private water trout ﬁshing. In addition to their home water, anglers have access to numerous spring-fed ponds within a few minutes walk from any of the guest cabins. Four more of the West’s top wild trout streams are within easy striking distance of Ruby Springs Lodge: the Big Hole, Beaverhead, Jefferson, and the Madison. The lodge also has access to multiple private water leases within a short drive of the property.

If you have a passion for wild trout fly fishing and gorgeous Montana countryside, this part of Montana is pretty tough to beat. Although the emphasis at Ruby Springs is on great fly fishing, it doesn’t hurt to also have luxury lodging, world-class amenities, and gourmet dining. The entire lodging experience at Ruby Springs is inviting, cozy, and warm – we couldn’t think of a better spot to spend a week with friends and loved ones. You can rest assured that you will get a good nights rest and be ready for the next day’s fishing, satiated with fine dining. Treat yourself, you deserve it. s 4 Night / 3 Day package

Ruby Springs Lodge photo

$5,700-$6,100

s April through October

The Complete Fly Fisher C O M P L E T E F L Y F I S H E R is ideally located on the finest section of the Big Hole River and is a Montana legacy lodge. Originally built in 1968, guests from all over the world have traveled here to the beautiful banks of the Big Hole River to experience the magic of Montana. The list of incredible fisheries in this area is remarkable. You can choose to fish the Big Hole for your entire stay or venture to some of the nearby watersheds. Within a short drive are the Beaverhead, Jefferson, Rock Creek, the Bitterroot, and the Clark Fork. Just to name a few.

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Perched on the banks of this glorious river with guides who know its every swing and pocket, the ﬂy ﬁshing here is epic. The hatches are many and the scenery is unmatched! These canyons provide their own ecosystems perfect for trout. You have three unique lodging options at The Complete Fly Fisher. Three guest suites in the main lodge, six stand-alone cabins, and a newly-renovated historic barn house, all together accommodating 1618 guests. s 6 Night / 5 Day package

The Complete Fly Fisher photo

$6,195

s May through October

Spotted Bear Ranch T H I S I S O N E of the most exciting wild trout dry fly fishing destinations we have offered in quite some time. The South Fork of the Flathead is well-known in the fly fishing world as the epicenter for dry-fly cutthroat trout fishing. There are two main fly fishing options to choose from: 6 days on the wilderness part of the South Fork of the Flathead River accessible only by horseback, or multiple lodge packages that offer both floating and walk-and-wade fishing close by, just depending on your adventure level! Enter by horseback and exit by raft. The only way to begin this float is by trail and since this is a wilderness

area, getting there is a huge part of the adventure. This trip is set up for groups of 4 - 6 anglers. Anglers will be staying in spacious tents furnished with comfortable cots. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow. Guests will eat breakfast and dinner each day in the open air with a tent fly to keep the weather out, and lunches are served streamside with your guides. Spotted Bear Ranch photo s 5 Night / 6 Day wilderness package

$7,000 s 6 Night / 5 Day lodge package $6,375 s Early June through September

Montana Fly Fishing Lodge photo

Montana Fly Fishing Lodge I N southcentral Montana, Quaking Aspen Ranch is nestled at the base of the Beartooth Mountains, a seldom talked about or heavily fished area of Big Sky Country. These unpressured waters offer fly fishers an excellent opportunity to fish at a relaxed pace in solitude, presenting flies to unsophisticated rainbows, browns and cutthroat trout. The fishing is a combination of float as well as walkand-wade guided fishing on smaller streams and rivers, with the great opportunity to float the Yellowstone River.

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A nice aspect of ﬁshing with MFFL is their access to private waters – a mile and a half on their Quaking Aspen Ranch and another 31⁄2 miles on two neighboring ranches, above and below. The lodging is a combination of lodge suites or African safari-style tents. All guests have full access and use of the wraparound decks, back patio, and recreation barn. s 6 Night / 5 Day package

$6,600

s Early April through October phone

800-669-3474

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Colorado

Colorado sits on the western edge of the great plains and is diverse in geography, including alpine mountains, high plains, deserts with huge sand dunes, and deep canyons. Nicknamed “The Centennial State,” Colorado encompasses just under 104,000-square miles with an elevation low of 3,300 feet and highest peak at 14,440. Colorado is known for high-mountain stream trout fly fishing with plenty of room to explore. The famous 26 miles of the Black Canyon stretch on the Gunnison River are hallowed waters in Colorado.

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Black Canyon Anglers F L O A T through the steep-walled Gunnison Gorge is recognized as one of the top fly fishing trips in the lower 48. This National Conservation Area lies just downstream of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and features spectacular scenery, unique geology, sightings of varied wildlife, and most importantly, excellent fly fishing for rainbow and brown trout. Trophy rainbows measuring 20˝-plus are the prize of the “Gunny”. These unparalleled 1, 2, or 3-day wilderness fishing adventures are conducted at the highest level of professionalism, with top-quality equipment and experienced personnel. Being recognized as the largest and most experienced outfitter operating in the Gunnison Gorge section of the Black Canyon and offering the only fishing lodge on the lower Gunnison River, Black Canyon Anglers is proud to be the most respected guide service on

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the Gunnison River. Seasoned guides and quality equipment paired with great customer service and attention to detail results in a long list of satisﬁed clients. Their guide staff has over 200 years of combined experience. They set a high standard for their staff and they work hard to create the best possible trip for each and every guest. It is recommended that you spend the night at the lodge prior to departing on your multiple-day ﬂoat trip. This will leave you refreshed and ready for your amazing journey ahead. Lodging on the river is in two-person tents with thick blow-up mattresses. Bringing your own sleeping bag is highly recommended. The food is excellent and beyond what you see on most camp trips. black canyon anglers s $1,800-$4,500 depending on number of

float days s Early May through early October

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El Rancho Pinoso N E S T L E D W I T H I N the breathtaking

Blanco Basin of southern Colorado, offering a serene escape amidst 863 acres of stunning countryside and framed by majestic 12,000-foot granite peaks, the ranch embodies the timeless spirit of the West. Three miles of trophy water, 2 additional rivers, plus several lakes and ponds all set in some of the most southwest in valleys beautiful Colorado. From plunge pools, riffles, oxbows with cut banks and lakes that seem to boil in the evenings, you’ll find what you’re looking for here. A nice aspect of fishing with El Rancho Pinoso is the access to private waters. Miles of private water that guests will have to themselves with no outside competition and excellent angling opportunities. The waters are

regularly rested and managed to assure a world-class fly-fishing experience. The two cabins, the Cowboy House and Log Cabin, are situated on a manicured lawn adjacent to rustic barns and corrals, ensuring guests enjoy a private and tranquil experience. These original log cabins have been meticulously renovated for guests' use, holding a true feeling of western pioneering while supplying all of the comforts that we’ve all come to expect. Guests will be able to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape as they relax on the porch after a day of fishing.

El Rancho Pinoso photos

el rancho pinoso s 6 Night / 5 Day package

$5,653

s June through October

North Fork Ranch NORTH

FORK

R A N C H offers the

best private water fly fishing experience anywhere, no questions asked. This carefully managed fly fishing ranch is situated in a secluded valley outside of Shawnee, CO, offering guests access to nearly a mile of the best water on the entire North Fork of the South Platte. There is a lot of variety at North Fork Ranch. Lots of managed, private fisheries that are loaded with trout within a short drive from the lodge. If you want something more challenging and technical, they also have access to 3 private fisheries with some great dry fly fishing on meadow streams. Colorado has some of the best fly fishing in North America. NFR guided trips and the expert guides leading them offer every angler access and knowledge to some of the best public

and private waters in Colorado. From North Fork Ranch, to Shawnee Meadows, Rawhide Flyfishers, Abell River Ranch, Santa Maria Ranch, Tarryall Land & Cattle Ranch, and so many other waters, their selection of guided trips is tailored to fit every angler’s fly fishing dreams. There are several great lodging options at North Fork Ranch for groups of any size. Whether you are planning a getaway by yourself, with your spouse or buddy, or bringing the entire family, this property has the perfect lodging to accommodate you. They are also large enough to support corporate outings and team-building rendezvous. north fork ranck

Nor th Fork Ranch photo

Bradey Hall photo

s 5 Night / 4 Day package

$4,440 s Late March through late November Erik Argotti photo

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I D A H O F LY F I S H I N G L O D G E S

Henry’s Fork Lodge THIS

I S a special place on hallowed

water and a must for any serious trout angler. Henry’s Fork Lodge prides itself on world-class service and inviting and cozy lodging, all thoughtfully and tastefully orchestrated for ﬂy anglers looking for a unique and upscale trout ﬁshing holiday. Henr y’s Fork Lodge photos

The sheer variety of water and types of fly fishing Henry’s Fork Lodge offers is mind-blowing. It would take months worth of fishing to see and experience all they have within easy striking distance of the lodge, both wade fishing as well as fishing from a boat. Variety keeps your interest piqued from the first to the last day of fishing.

Being literally a stones throw from the river, we couldn’t think of a better location to fish from for a week. You are minutes from some of the most famous waters on the Henry’s Fork as well as within easy striking distance of many of the fisheries in Yellowstone National Park, as well as the Madison in Montana. The emphasis at Henry’s Fork Lodge is 100% on fly fishing. However, it doesn’t hurt to also have world-class lodging along with gourmet dining to round out a terrific fly fishing holiday. henry’s fork lodge s 5 Night / 4 Day lodging pkg. only

$4,400

$749 - $995 / Day for guides s Late May through October

Teton Valley Lodge L O C AT E D O U T S I D E of Driggs, Idaho, this is the oldest continuously operating fly fishing lodge west of the Mississippi. Teton Valley Lodge has been outfitting on the South Fork of the Snake River, the Henry’s Fork and the Teton River since 1919. With over 25 different beats available on these three blue ribbon fisheries, there are years of discovery for every fly fishermen. You can expect to catch rainbows, browns and cutthroats, with prolific dry fly hatches that give you consistent opportunities for large trout on the surface. The guides here are some of the best in the business, anywhere in the world. They are polite, talented and professionals whose sole goal is to get you into fish and help you have the best day of your life.

You’ll not only see and experience a different piece of water each day, but you’ll learn a ton of new skills in a short amount of time, ultimately leaving TVL a better angler for it. The guest cabins range in size from 1 to 3 bedrooms. Most bedrooms are furnished with 2 queen beds and private bathrooms. Larger cabins include relaxing sitting rooms. Each room is outﬁtted with a mini bar, stocked daily. Each cabin has nice deck furniture to help guests take pleasure in the serene surroundings after a day on the river. The main facility has a large dining hall, along with a bar and lounge. teton valley lodge s 5 Night / 4 Day package

$4,854

s May through October

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W Y O M I N G F LY F I S H I N G L O D G E

The Darwin Ranch T H E D A R W I N R A N C H is located in

the Bridger-Teton National Forest, surrounded by lakes, mountains, rivers and wilderness in all directions. This secluded destination is one of the few surviving homestead inholdings in US Forest Service land that has not been subdivided. The ranch provides remote access to the Upper Gros Ventre River, which is protected by Wyoming’s Wild & Scenic Designation. One can fish for miles in either direction, and it is a rarity to encounter others. As a Darwin Ranch guest, you experience the wild on your own terms, with or even without a guide. They believe there is real value in the opportunity for exploration and true adventure, especially in this very welcoming, intimate, and luxurious setting, and with the benefit of a safety net that is largely unseen. A significant aspect of this is focusing on creating an atmosphere of curiosity, learning, and self-challenge, be it with respect to gaining confidence wading the Gros Ventre River, casting to the feisty

cutthroat trout, exploring the rugged backcountry, learning local flora and fauna, or saddling a horse and helping the wranglers run the herd out to pasture for the night. Along with the Gros Ventre River, other guided fly fishing trips off the ranch can produce some spectacular fishing. If you want to experience other rivers, the Upper Green and some smaller streams in the area can be great for rainbows and browns, depending on the season and conditions. Settle into their hand-built log cabins whose modern style blends gracefully into the bones of 100-year-old structures. Enjoy the timeless comforts of the cozy beds with crisp sheets & down pillows, wood-burning stoves for chilly nights, private baths, and ranchgenerated electricity. the darwin ranch s 6 Night / 5 Day pkg.

$3,300-$4,635 Double occupancy s Late June through September

The Darwin Ranch photos

GT Series Fly Rod I P I C K E D U P my ﬁrst Scott G-Series ﬂy

rod more than 30 years ago while living in Breckenridge, Colorado. I have been a fan ever since. As fly rods got faster and faster over the years, most companies lost the soul of a good fly rod that was accurate, powerful, protected light tippet and felt alive when connected to a fish. So when Scott fly rods came out with the new GT series fly rods they had a massive reputation to uphold with anything carrying the “G” name. They have leaned hard into modern material science with multi-modulus layups and multidirectional fibers and a new lighter-designed internal ferrule to make a rod that is light, accurate, powerful when needed, and forgiving, all while keeping that legendary medium-action feel alive. This is the perfect weapon for spring creeks, delicate dry fly presentations, and anyone who prefers the “feeling” of a fly rod over just blasting 90 feet of line into the wind. Yet, for all its modern innovation, the rod never loses its soul. It retains Scott’s signature smooth, progressive flex and superb tippet protection that Scott fly rod fans like myself love. The Scott GT series masterfully blends soul and science, setting a new benchmark for technical trout rods. Chris King Travel Specialist at The Fly Shop® FFI Master Certified Casting Instructor

Scott’s GT Series No other rods match the legacy and longevity of the Scott G-Series rods that are filled with firsts, fished the world over, and passed down through generations. New GT rods are lighter and sportier than their predecessors yet still possess smooth progressive actions, tremendous feedback, and top-notch tippet protection that has kept dedicated anglers fishing the previous three generations of these rods for almost 50 years.

Scan this code for more info and purchasing options.

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800-669-3474

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WA S H I N G T O N F LY F I S H I N G L O D G E S

Black Bear Lodge

Erik Argotti photos

L O C A T E D R I G H T on the banks of the Upper Columbia River in Northeast Washington. Staying at the Lodge offers guests an opportunity to fish this unique and secluded fishery and a chance to get into some really big rainbows. These bows average 18˝-20˝ and are typically 2-3 pounds, and there is always a chance at fish up in the 27˝- 30˝+ range. The lodge sits just south of the Canadian border, a little ways downstream from the small town of Northport, and Jack Mitchell at Black Bear Lodge is the only outfitter in the region guiding this section of the river. Although there are limited spots to get out and fish some edges when conditions allow, Black Bear Lodge accesses most of the river from jet boats that allows them to motor up and row down. These skiffs are perfect for accessing the best parts of the river, save on

shuttle time, and give you the ability to float the better runs again and again. The guides will make the most of your time on the river and focus on spots that are fishing the best at any given time of the year. After a great day on the river, settle in at the lodge, which overlooks the Columbia River. The deck is the main gathering place after a day of fishing. Grab a cocktail, soak in the river views, relax with a book, observe the surrounding bird habitat or just relax. At Black Bear Lodge your day is that simple – their staff and guides will take care of the rest. The lodge takes 6 anglers, but has room for 8. black bear lodge s 4 Night / 3 Day package

$2,385

s Mid May through early October

Olympic Peninsula Steelhead Olympic Peninsula Steelhead photos

Erik Argotti photo

T H E O L Y M P I C P E N I N S U L A is home to big rivers, giant trees and enormous steelhead that can weigh in excess of 30 pounds! This is the last, best stronghold of these powerful anadromous fish in the lower 48 states. Jack Mitchell of The Evening Hatch runs his Olympic Peninsula winter steelhead program from the O.P Cabin outside of Forks. You couldn’t find a better location to be based out of for steelhead fishing on the Olympic Peninsula! You will be centrally located and within short striking distance of six prime winter steelhead rivers and within a half an hour of four of them The winter steelhead fishery on the Olympic Peninsula is a short season and dependent on so many factors. Steelhead enter the rivers between December and April with rain being the key ingredient. The OP receives 14 feet of rain annually with

most of it coming during those prime winter months. Jack has narrowed his efforts down to the best, most consistent times to intercept these big sea-run brutes returning to the rivers and has keyed his efforts around the months of February and March. Jack has established a property outside the town of Forks that is perfectly situated to access many different rivers on the Olympic Peninsula. It’s a cozy place and has the capacity for 6 anglers, although they can accommodate groups up to 10 with another offsite cabin. All meals are served at the lodge. Rooms are double occupancy and each room has its own bathroom or one located very close. olympic peninsula steelhead $2,385 s February through March s 4 Night / 3 Day package

The Steelhead Ranch

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T H E K L I C K I T A T R I V E R is a tributary of the Columbia River. It drains a rugged plateau area on the eastern side of the Cascade Range northeast of Portland. The river flows for over 90 miles from its origin on the slopes of Mt. Adams to its confluence with the Columbia River at the Columbia River Gorge. The Klickitat River’s wild steelhead are strong and unpredictable. Typically in the 8-12 pound range with the ever-present possibility at a 20-pound fish, the wild summer steelhead enter the river from June until November. In addition to the wild steelhead, the hatchery steelhead that inhabit the Klickitat are of the Skamania strain and are an added bonus. This is a great place to both indicator fish for steelhead as well as break out your Spey stick and test your swing game. You’ll be floated down the w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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river in drift boats hitting all of the best runs. Fish from the boat between wading spots, then get out and ﬁsh the run with a single or double-handed rod. These professional guides are there to help you get into big, wild steelhead. The lodge is located on a 40-acre ranch which features a beautiful, double mountain view and ‘Bonanza style’ ranch comfort. The lodge can accommodate 10 anglers in double occupancy or 6 anglers in single occupancy. There are several options for lodging at this property that meet everyones needs and wants. the steelhead ranch s 4 Night / 3 Day package

$2,385

s Late August through mid-November

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F L O R I DA K E YS

Bahia Honda Sporting Club BAHIA HONDA SPORTING CLUB

is the only all-inclusive fly fishing lodge in the lower Florida Keys. That’s hard to believe, but true. Finally, there is an easy way for anglers to fish together in the Keys without having to juggle guide schedules, rent a car at the airport, find an appropriate hotel, test out a few restaurants, find where you’ll be meeting your guide...all these separate tasks just to put together a tarpon fishing trip in the Lower Keys with a few friends. Fishing for tarpon, bonefish, and permit with the Bahia Honda Sporting Club takes away the stress of scheduling and juggling trip arrangements. All you have to do is fly to Key West, and they take care of the rest. It provides what anglers are familiar with when traveling to international lodges – an allinclusive fly fishing trip – and makes it better by moving it to the Florida Keys where no passport is required. This part of the Florida Keys is far enough south that you’ll be accessing both the Gulf of Mexico waters and the Atlantic, two different tide cycles, and a vast network of flats in between. It virtually doubles the fishing waters,

solely by location, and improves your odds of hooking multiple tarpon each day. Run times to and from the daily fishing venues are kept short and that means more time fishing. The Bahia Honda Sporting Club guides are patient, skilled, and experienced. They will put you on the fish, and offer guidance as needed. You won’t find any of the demanding and aggressive behavior that some Key’s guides are known for, and you’ll be able to relax and focus on the task at hand – feeding the ‘poon! The lodge is simply spectacular, located waterfront on an open water bay, with a great deal of privacy. They handle up to ten rods at the lodge with private and shared accommodations. The lodge interior is exquisite, a luxurious design and decor including Italian marble floors throughout. Vaulted ceilings tower over the great room, which opens onto the pool and courtyard, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Bahia Honda Spor ting Club photos

bahia honda sporting club $10,550-$11,250 s Late April through June s 7 Night / 6 Day package

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800-669-3474

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TEXAS

Bay Flats Lodge

Erik Argotti photo

S I G H T - C A S T I N G in clear water is the game at Bay Flats Lodge. Typically, redfish sight-fishing is casting to a dark blob in murky water. Here, your guide will be poling you around gin-clear flats that make for perfect conditions to sight-cast to schools of redfish in shallow, ankle-deep water. The perfect scenario to enjoy stalking fish - either for the angler new to flats fishing, or the angler who cannot get enough of this addicting style of fishing. Their fishing grounds include San Antonio Bay, Espiritu Santo Bay, and Shoalwater, Hynes, Ayres, and Mesquite bays. Portions of a few of these bays help make up Matagorda Island, which is a 39-mile-long offshore barrier island which separates the mainland from the Gulf of Mexico. It consists of myriad secluded lake areas and hundreds of acres of coastal marsh and dunes. This unique environment is unlike anywhere else along the Texas coast, providing multiple options when choosing where to fish, and also providing protection from coastal winds that can often be a nuisance.

Guides use state-of-the-art, ultralight poling skiffs, pushing you silently along, while looking for tailing redfish. This is sight-fishing in gin-clear water, unlike the murky water to the east. The guides are excellent fly anglers and position the boats appropriately for casting to redfish with a fly. Double occupancy rooms include air conditioning, two queen beds with new pillow-top mattresses, and Marriott Luxury Hotel bedding and linens—this is as comfy as it gets. Each room has a full bathroom with shower. Fresh towels are provided in each room, as well as widescreen HD TV with DirecTV, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. They have over 20,000-square feet of indoor and outdoor space to enjoy after an awesome fishing day. Gather around the fire pits, huge outdoor kitchen, the corn hole courts, or relax at one of their smaller common areas. They also have meeting and conference rooms available for corporate groups. bay flats lodge s 4 Night / 3 Day packages s January through December

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$3,136

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LOUISIANA

Woodland Plantation T H E W O O D L A N D P L A N T A T I O N is a place full of rich history, warm southern charm and the area is home to the best redfishing in the world. The Plantation has seen its share of changes over its 180+ years of existence. From being a major hub during the time of the slave trade, to a haven for bootleggers during prohibition, as well as withstanding many hurricanes and floods over the years, the Plantation has survived and is one of the last Mississippi River plantations south of New Orleans. Once you visit the Woodland Plantation you become part of the family. That’s not an overstatement – it’s how they feel and roll at the Plantation. You are the most important part of what the Woodland Plantation does. Only 10 minutes from the nearest boat ramp and 45 minutes to Venice, a prime location for targeting redfish, and with 20,000-square miles of marshland accessible by boat, the opportunities are endless. There is so much water to access and fish, and big bull reds are always moving in from offshore to repopulate the bays and flats. Fishing is done from fully-outfitted and customized flats skiffs designed to

hunt reds in the skinny backwaters, and all of the captains are highly skilled guides with years of guiding experience fishing for redfish in the area. There is no wading here as most of the flats are soft mud. Your guides will pole you along and search for fish and everything is super visual as you hunt for reds cruising in as little as four to five inches of water. It’s an amazing sight, spotting a huge single red pushing a wake, or seeing small pods tailing, and large schools stirring up nervous water. The Woodland Plantation has over 20 bedrooms and can accommodate groups as large as forty-five guests. Their team of guides typically run 5 to 6 skiffs with 10 to 12 fly anglers, but depending on availability (and if booked far enough in advance), can handle up to twenty fly anglers at a time. The emphasis at the Plantation is 100% on the great fishing. However, it doesn’t hurt to also have rich history, comfortable and nice lodging, and world-class dining to round out a terrific holiday. Don’t plan on losing any weight here!

Will Graham photos

woodland plantation s 4 Nights / 3 Day package

$2,800 Will Graham photo

s January through December

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800-669-3474

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Northern California The Trout & Steelhead ﬁshing near The Fly Shop®

F L Y S H O P ’ S nearby fisheries are a pleasant, 2-hour drive north of Sacramento through the farm country of the Central Valley, and only 3.5 hours from the Bay Area. Our combined tricounty area is larger than Vermont and surrounds more than 700 miles of mountain streams and rivers. Siskiyou County (north of Redding) covers more than 6,200 square miles, is larger than Rhode Island, and has a population of fewer than 42,000 people. To put our population in complete perspective, consider that all of Northern California has only one telephone area code and covers an area larger than the state of South Carolina. The Fly Shop® and our surrounding community is located at the very upper end of the fertile Central Valley and the skyline to the north, east, and west is made up of the Salmon-Trinity Alps, and the Sierras, and is accented by two massive volcanoes. Though some would prefer otherwise, there is very little beyond outdoor recreation and the lumber industry locally, and the Redding community remains sleepy, parochial, and conservative. We’re fortunate to have a few fine hotels, a couple of wonderful restaurants and, because we’re blessed with a very temperate climate, (and two of the west’s finest tailwater fisheries), we’ve got great trout or steelhead fishing nearly every day of the year. Certainly we have the occasional winter storm but, on the average, our guides are out having fun with clients more than 300 days of each calendar year.

THE

Trout season on the Pit River, Fall River, the McCloud, and the entire Sacramento drainage is open all year. Those fisheries converge just upstream of our city limits, forming the massive Shasta Lake. Other terrific local angling options on that map include fall and winter steelhead fishing on the Klamath and Trinity rivers, two world-famous spring creeks, dozens of small streams stuffed with fish that seldom see an angler, and a plethora of ultra-productive stillwater fisheries.

The Fly Shop’s Private Waters Our team has been developing our Private Waters concept for nearly forty years. We’ve opened up and continue to discover some great fly fishing opportunities formerly held captive behind gates, for what are modest and reasonable fees. All of our Private Waters are managed exclusively as catch-andrelease destinations, and allow only fly fishing with barbless hooks. Angling pressure is kept intentionally light, ensuring each guest experiences the best possible fly fishing. We manage our properties with our own high standards, using common sense, and have found that those guiding principles serve all of our guests very well. These properties range from day fishing on a secluded stream, lodging overlooking a beautiful lake, to our jewel, Antelope Creek Ranch, with guest suites, lakes and a meadow creek.

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N O R T H E R N C A L I F O R N I A G U I D E D F LY F I S H I N G

Lower Sacramento River The Sacramento River below Shasta Dam – known as the Lower Sacramento, or “Lower Sac” – has to be rated as among the best tailwater ﬁsheries in the country. N U M B E R and quality of wild rainbow trout on the Lower Sacramento River makes it one of the finest tailwaters in the United States. A variety of methods can be used to target these fish year round, the most productive is dead drifting nymphs using indicators. You will leave the ramp at the end of the day with a smile on your face. With nearly fifty miles of excellent wild rainbow trout water, and being open year round, there is nearly always a good place to go whether you want size, numbers or solitude – and often you can get all three. You and your guide can tailor your day to meet your expectations and have a fabulous day on the water. The Lower Sac is a broad, powerful river, with ﬂows averaging between 3,000 and 10,000 CFS. Due in part to the sheer volume of the river through-

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out much of the year, and the limited shoreline access, the “Lower Sac” is best ﬁshed from the comforts of the McKenzie-style drift boats. What separates The Fly Shop’s guide staff from other local operations and guides is experience and the fact that our team works together, sharing information daily. By combining their talents, ideas, and everyday experiences, they’ve become the most successful and popular guides in the Golden State. lower sacramento river The rate includes 8-10 hours of guided fishing with lunch provided. Your guide will also be providing all the necessary terminal tackle (flies, rods, reels, lines, leaders, tippet, indicators, and split shot). s Full Day package $625/day (2 anglers) s Half Day package 485/day (2 anglers) u Plus processing fees.

Marcel Siegle photos

Booking Online

Marcel Siegle photo phone

800-669-3474

W E ’ V E M A D E I T even easier to book your guided Northern California fly fishing trip! In 2026 we have been hard at work and teamed up with our friends at BrindleChute to offer a new online booking platform here at The Fly Shop to make your bookings easier when you aren’t able to make the call due to your schedule. It’s as easy as going to our website and clicking the “BOOK ONLINE” tab or by scanning the QR code located on this page. This gives you the opportunity to choose the specific date(s) you’d like to fish as well as how many anglers (boats) you’ll have on your trip. After you select your dates and quantity of anglers you’ll be taken to the next screen where you can add your name and email address. Your booking is now underway and you’ll shortly receive an email verifying your guided dates as well as some small details that you’ll be asked to fill out to complete your reservation. Have questions once booked? Don’t worry, we aren’t moving away from service. We still have our great team of experts that can answer any questions you have about your upcoming trip. They’ll even assist you with making sure you are put together with the guide that best meets your angling desires.

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N O R T H E R N C A L I F O R N I A G U I D E D F LY F I S H I N G

McCloud River M C C L O U D R I V E R rainbows (salmo Shasta) may be the most famous strain of trout on the planet Earth. At the turn of the last century, these were the fish used to first stock most of New Zealand, Argentina, Chile, and other potential trout fisheries all across the western hemisphere. The McCloud itself is a river unlike any other, cascading through boulder-strewn pocket riffles, and one emerald pool after another. The banks of the river are lined with a dense forest of tall evergreens and hardwoods. All of this cool, un-polluted, aerated water creates perfect conditions for caddies flies, mayflies, and even a variety of different stoneflies

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including the giant salmon flies, golden stoneflies, and yellow stones. Fishing on the McCloud River is usually a well-balanced blend of both nymphing and dry fly fishing, and during certain times of the year large streamers can work well, too. Our guide staff loves fly fishing on the McCloud River and is happy to share the techniques that have proven consistently successful on the river. If you are planning a fly fishing trip to Northern California, our guide staff can turn that average day into a memorable trip. s Full Day package

$625 / day (2 anglers)

Tobias Nolan photo

Upper Sacramento River “ U P P E R S A C ” is freestone fishing at its best! The portion of the river commonly called the Upper Sacramento begins below Lake Siskiyou (near the town of Mt. Shasta) and tumbles downstream for nearly 40 miles through canyons and a terraced, typical freestone setting, eventually ending at Shasta Lake. The river is made up of riffles, runs, small holes, pocket water, huge pools and many undercuts, all of which provide anglers with opportunities to fish dry flies, a variety of nymphing techniques, or even streamers, all in a day’s fishing. Rainbow trout are the

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main target in these waters, and most are healthy, wild, and native to the river system. The Upper Sacramento is the birthplace of high sticking, its relatively small size and ready access to many riﬄes and tons of pocket water make it a great place to hone your high sticking or Euronymphing skills. Your day spent with a guide specializing in these techniques will have you tuned up for your next adventure. s Full Day package

$625 / day (2 anglers)

Katie Falkenberg photo

Pit River THE

Shane Kohlbeck photo

PIT

R I V E R consists of a series of dams and

reservoirs that stretch for some 30 miles from Lake Britton to Shasta Lake. For those adventurous anglers willing to work a little, the rewards of fishing the Pit River are well worth it. The reputation of the river keeps many anglers away, making the Pit a great place to get away from it all. Each and every pocket of water on the river holds fish, and amazingly large ﬁsh at that. These wild, football-shaped rainbows are the definition of strong-willed ﬁsh. Each stretch of the Pit has its own unique character,

but between every pool and run are sections of pocket water from just below Britton Dam through Pit 5. You may have to travel from spot to spot, but each of these hold a lot of rainbows. Our guide staff primarily nymph fishes this stream, although there are occasional hatches of stoneflies, caddis, and mayflies that will bring some fish to the surface, searching for an easy meal. Our guides have put in a lot of time exploring the many rugged miles of the Pit River, and know some fantastic places to wet a line and tie into leaping rainbows cast after cast. s Full Day package

$625 / day (2 anglers)

Fall River FALL

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R I V E R is the largest of California’s spring

creeks, fed by several icy aquifers coming from the snows and glaciers of Mt. Shasta. It is the nation’s largest spring system, creating a wonderland of crystal-clear, 50-degree rainbow trout habitat. Fall River itself is some 15 miles long with an average depth of 7 feet of icy cold water, making it impossible to wade. The entire river bank, from where the head waters bubble out of the ground to its conﬂuence with the Tule River is privately owned, w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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making public access along the river very difficult even though the water itself is open to the public. The fishing on Fall River is technical and demanding because of its gin-clear water and slowmoving currents, but with a skilled and properly equipped guide these incredible fish and the full length of Fall River become accessible to anglers of all skill-levels. s Full Day package

$625 / day (2 anglers)

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Hat Creek H A T C R E E K represents the quintessential chess game of spring creek fly fishing for wary trout. It bubbles out of the numerous aquifers near Mt Lassen and runs clear and cold throughout the season, providing ample habitat for a variety of different aquatic insects, including stoneflies, caddisflies, and multiple mayfly species. The shallow, easily waded riffles and long glass-smooth flats of Hat Creek offer ideal holding water for the stream’s resident rainbow and brown trout, and it is perfectly suited to fly fishing. The section of Hat Creek that we target, from Powerhouse #2 down to Lake Britton, provides an

array of excellent fly fishing water; it is where the serious fly fishermen spend their time. This section of river is 3.2 miles long, all of which is designated as Wild Trout water with Trophy Trout restrictions. The nature of a spring creek, given the water clarity, slow currents, and abundant weed beds, presents the angler challenging presentation situations. A day with one of our guides will help you reveal the mysteries and heighten your awareness to the factors that matter making you a better all-around fly fisher. s Full Day package

$625 / day (2 anglers) Marcel Siegle photo

Shasta Lake S H A S T A L A K E is the lifeblood of the Sacramento River, and is the confluence of the McCloud, Pit and Upper Sacramento Rivers. Dammed in 1944, it has since held a healthy population of spotted, smallmouth and largemouth bass, as well as brown and native rainbow trout. While you can get into a lot of fish from the shore, Shasta Lake is best fished from a bass or powered jon boat. This allows you to alternate between exposures and duck out of the wind, cover as much water as possible to find the fish, and chase down the wolf pack when they are hunting bait balls.

While the primary method to target all fish species on Shasta is the Float n’ Fly / indicator setup, many techniques can be employed on the lake and all can be very effective on the best days. Our guides on Shasta Lake know all of the techniques and best spots to target all of these species at different times. All you’ll need to do is show up and be ready to have a tired arm at the end of the day. All gear, terminal tackle, and flies are provided, including a filling lunch to keep you going throughout the day. s Full Day package

$625 / day (2 anglers)

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NORTHERN CALIFORNIA GUIDED STEELHEAD TRIPS

Trinity River T H E T R I N I T Y R I V E R is arguably one of the finest steelhead streams in the West. It’s runs of anadromous fish were nearly wiped out when Trinity and Lewiston Dams were completed in the 1960s, but restoration efforts along the river have brought the steelhead back by the thousands, and recent years on the Trinity have boasted some of the finest runs and greatest steelheading in several decades. The average size of a Trinity River steelhead ranges from 4-8 pounds, while mature adults measuring over 10 pounds are hooked on a regular basis. In addition

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to the steelhead, anglers have the opportunity to hook into fresh Chinook and Coho salmon, and even searun brown trout. There are two main techniques used to fly fish for steelhead on the Trinity River: Swinging flies and nymphing. Day in and day out, however, our guides prefer to drift nymphs under indicators, as they have found that it is by far the most productive way to catch fish. s Full Day package

$625 / day (2 anglers) Dominic Bruno photo

Klamath River THE

K L A M AT H

R I V E R System is one of the most

impressive drainages on the West Coast, starting in the vast Klamath Basin in southeastern Oregon and carving its way across Northern California’s rugged Siskiyou Mountains before emptying into the Paciﬁc Ocean. The Klamath is the site of the largest dam removal project in history opening up the upper river's watershed to historic salmon and steelhead spawning waters. You will see for yourself the recovery of these great runs of anadromous ﬁsh, only one year later.

The Klamath River is perhaps best known for its historical runs of half-pounder steelhead. These steelhead spend only one year in the ocean before returning to their natal river by the thousands, and average 14-18 inches. In addition, the Klamath has good annual runs of adult steelhead from 4-8 pounds. It is one of the best rivers anywhere to introduce someone to steelhead ﬂy ﬁshing. s Full Day package

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$625 / day (2 anglers) phone

800-669-3474

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N O RT H E R N C A L I F O R N I A P R I VAT E WAT E R S

Antelope Creek Ranch S T A Y I N G at Antelope Creek Ranch enjoy wonderful accommodations, and absolutely terrific trout fishing that begins steps from their doorstep. The guest accommodations are within a stone’s throw of the serpentine, fish-filled meadow stream and within walking distance of the ranch’s two trophy trout lakes. There are nearly two miles of the creek on the ranch accessible to anglers. This historic cattle ranch is a perfect vacation spot for both serious fishermen and their families or friends. At just over 5,000 feet in elevation, Antelope Creek Ranch is an ideal mid-summer and fall angling retreat. The ranch enjoys cool, pleasant weather and excellent fly fishing conditions all season long. Guests at Antelope Creek Ranch will have a choice

ANGLERS

Val Atkinson photo

of fully-furnished, one or two bedroom guest suites. Each of these well-appointed suites are outﬁtted with fully equipped kitchens, comfortable furniture, outside barbecues, and Wi-Fi. Large groups of 8 have the option to book the entire property and use the ranch house. This is a 4 bedroom home that can accommodate up to 8 anglers and nonanglers. You will be responsible for your own meals or we are happy to help make arrangements for a chef if desired, at an additional cost. antelope creek ranch $395 / day per angler (min of 3 nights) s Lodge 2,400 / night per (min of 3 nights) s Mid May through October s Suites

Tobias Nolan photo

Rock Creek Lake Br yan Quick photo

B E S T F I S H E D from a ﬂoat tube, this nine-acre, low

elevation lake has good weather and great fishing almost every day of the year! This terrific fishing property lies at 3,200 ft in the foothills below the western slope of Mt. Lassen National Park. Solitude on your float tube or pontoon is what Rock Creek Lake is all about. This century-old timber mill lake is everything you would think a mid-elevation trout lake would be. Fed by a spring creek tumbling from the canyon, the naturally reproducing rainbows and browns are predictable and super fun to catch. Hatches of one kind or another seem to occur every day of the season on Rock Creek Lake, and as a result one can use dry flies much of the time on this lake. Each season brings a different hatch.

This is the perfect get-a-way for any kind of group; providing ﬂy ﬁshing for the anglers, a comfortable cabin and loads of hiking opportunities for the nonangler. Don’t forget about the excellent sight seeing at the nearby National and State Parks. There is a cabin perched overlooking the lake. It has two-bedrooms, that sleeps up to six people. Cooking utensils and dishes are provided. A gas stove with oven, coffee maker, refrigerator, microwave, toaster, cleaning products, and an outdoor gas bbq are provided for your convenience. Sleeping arrangements consist of a bunk and twin bed in each bedroom. rock creek lake $175 / day per angler 295 / night (plus taxes & cleaning) s Lodging s March through November s Fishing

Battle Creek Canyon Ranch B AT T L E

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C R E E K is an intimate, wild, terraced

freestone stream that is best suited to the physically fit fly fisherman. It averages twenty feet across, and tumbles down an often narrow canyon that has one pool and riffle after another full of native rainbows, and sometimes steelhead. Planting trout is prohibited in these lower reaches of Battle Creek, as it is the primary spawning tributary for salmon and steelhead from the Lower Sacramento River. Battle Creek’s resident rainbows, therefore, are completely wild, native fish that have grown big and tough, full of fight, and usually die of old age without ever being fooled by a dry fly or nymph. Like all healthy streams, Battle Creek has a large population of all sizes of trout. Fish average 10-14 inches, while a trophy on this boulder-strewn w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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stream is two or three pounds. These big Battle Creek rainbows are not uncommon, though the big ﬁsh don’t rise as aggressively to dry ﬂies. When you’ve reserved a beat at Battle Creek for the day, it’s your own private piece of stream from daybreak to dusk. You are welcome to arrive as early as you like, and leave whenever your angling day is over. We do strongly recommend that you give yourself ample time to hike out of the canyon at the end of the day. There is no lodging at Battle Creek Ranch. We have options in the area. battle creek canyon ranch s $150 / day per angler s Late April through November 15

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N O RT H E R N C A L I F O R N I A P R I VAT E WAT E R S

Kutras Clear Creek Ranch C R E E K is a narrow, mountain stream that begins in the snow-capped Trinity Divide and runs more than fifteen miles through a rugged canyon before it ever hits a paved road. The ranch is the longest privately-owned stretch of free-running creek in the state and has always been. The freestone creek is home to wild brown and rainbow trout and supplemented each spring and fall to ensure there are plenty of hungry fish to test your skills, whether with a dry-fly, dry-dropper, or Euro nymph rig. Anglers will have many opportunities to hook fish and this is a great place for novice or beginning fly anglers, as well as sophisticated anglers. Clear Creek has a variety of water, long, open pools, riffles, and pocket water lined with trees. There is classic dry fly fishing almost every day of the season in

CLEAR

the bigger pools and one can ply the shallower water in between with bushy dry flies. Nymph and streamer fishing fill in the rest of the time. Expect the highest water levels in June and the warmest weather in August. Whatever the conditions, the trout are always there. In the center of the ranch there are two cabins for guest use. They’re isolated from one another and when you rent one of them it comes with the exclusive use of two miles of the stream.

Katie Falkenberg photos

kutras clear creek ranch $205/person s Middle Cabin 225/person s January through December s Lower Cabin

Luk Lake L A K E is a 65+ acre lake conveniently located just minutes from I5 in Corning, California, behind the Rolling Hills Casino. The lake’s varied shoreline is lined with vegetation and flanked by the rolling golden hillsides of the Central Valley. Its low elevation keeps the lake waters (and outside air temperatures) moderate and comfortable throughout the winter and spring, providing ideal habitat for rainbow trout until the water temperatures grow too warm in the summertime. All year, Luk Lake exemplifies ideal bass habitat. It’s not at all uncommon to land trophy sized bass, sunfish, and rainbow trout all in the same day at Luk Lake! There is a boat launch for anglers who choose to use their own float tubes. You are also welcome to launch your own small boats (14 feet long or less) if you prefer.

LUK

Gas motors are not allowed, but electric trolling motors are acceptable. There are also boats available to rent at the lake. Row-boats rent for $25 a day. Nestled amongst a grove of towering eucalyptus trees, is the lodge at Luk Lake, a 5 bedroom, 2 bath ranch-style building that features 11 beds (4 bedrooms with two twin beds each and one room with 3 twin beds), kitchen, and comfortable sitting room. The lodge rents out for $300 a night for any size group (up to 12 people maximum), with a two-night minimum stay. Br yan Quick photo

luk lake s Full Day Fishing $175 / day per person 105 / day per person s Half Day Fishing s January through December

Bollibokka S E V E N P R I V A T E miles of the majestic McCloud on Bollibokka tumble through beautiful, rugged mountain terrain and, arguably, some of the finest fly fishing water on the continent. Bollibokka is bordered upstream by more than a dozen miles of other private property. All of it extends to the high ridges on either slope of the McCloud and, collectively, this has been some of the most jealously guarded angling in the nation for more than a 100 years. The McCloud River is famous for its breathtaking beauty and its trout. The river itself is a classic freestone stream, with one set of terraced riffles, and deep rainbow and brown trout-filled pools after another. The property has an extensive and well maintained trail system along the entire river, with side trails providing easy access to many of the best pools and

THE

McCloud River

riffles. Fishing on the Bollibokka property is a combination of hiking and fishing the terraced pocket water and casting into broad, deep pools, often sight-casting to individual feeding trout. Guides are available upon request through The Fly Shop® Guide Service and have extensive knowledge and experience at Bollibokka. Weeks are hard to come by on this famous property, but we do get openings at times. Give us a call to check availablity. Day fishing, with a guide, is available after the loding options are closed for the year. bollibokka s $6,367-$9,850 per week s Late April through November 15

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Destination Schools For decades, The Fly Shop® has stood as a beacon of excellence in the fly fishing world, renowned not only for world class gear and global travel services, but for its outstanding educational programs. Among these, our specialized Destination Schools like the Saltwater Fly Fishing School and the Spey Casting Schools offer immersive, expert-led experiences designed to transform your skills and elevate your angling journey. Whether you are looking to conquer the demands of flats fishing at a beautiful tropic lodge or to master the elegant rhythms of a two-handed rod on a large river, our destination schools will provide the ultimate training ground. s

World-Class Instructors Instructors are certified casting instructors s

Immersive Curriculum Learn it and put it to use the same day

Premium Gear Access We provide all of the gear for you during these schools

Chris King C a s t i n g I n s t r u c t o r W A S I N T R O D U C E D to fly fishing at a young age. In 1998 he found a home at The Fly Shop®. Chris is currently Master Certified, Two-Hand Certified and an emeritus member of the organization’s Casting Board of Governors. Chris was taught to instruct by the famous Mel Krieger and as an apprentice to Mel learned a casting technique that works throughout the world of fly fishing. He has taught at our schools for over 20 years and continues to lead our entire schools program, whether it is a local 1-day clinic or a 6-day Spey or saltwater school at a far away destination. He is a patient instructor who will make even the most experienced angler better after only a few hours of time. We don’t think there is a more knowledgeable or patient instructor in the fly fishing world and are happy to have Chris leading our programs.

CHRIS

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Katie Falkenberg photo

David Frandsen photo

Saltwater Fly Fishing Schools T H E F L Y S H O P ’ S ® Saltwater Schools are designed for anglers looking to sharpen their flats game and gain confidence in every aspect of saltwater fly fishing. Under the expert instruction of Chris King (FFI Master Certified Casting Instructor) and Shane Kohlbeck (FFI Certified Casting Instructor), you’ll learn, fish, and grow as an angler in one of the most beautiful and productive saltwater destinations. Each year we choose a new, comfortable destination within our saltwater portfolio to hold a 1-week saltwater school. These schools aren’t in ugly places and are a great way to get started in saltwater fly fishing. These aren’t just boring classroom schools where you cast on the beach and sit in a room looking at powerpoint presentations. Our schools are about getting you on the water and learning by

doing. You’ll be on the water every single day putting the knowledge gained into action with your excellent guides and fellow students. Lodging will depend on the destination, but we generally choose lodges that offer single occupancy to make it even more comfortable for everyone during their stay. Having single occupancy allows for single anglers to come without worrying about sharing a room with a stranger. Each day ﬁshing will be two anglers to a skiff. You’ll also get a day of ﬁshing with either Chris or Shane to help reinforce the things you’ve learned in real time. el pescador, belize, s 7 Night / 6 Day package

Swing Week Schools T H E F L Y S H O P ’ S swing week schools are a great way to hone your skills with a two-handed fly rod in real fly fishing situations. There is no better way to perfect your skills than to put them to real life action. Chris King hosts and teaches a group of swing anglers every year in Alaska. The lodge is chosen each year to ensure that you have a great opportunity to put your skills to the test in productive water. Spey casting is more than just another technique. It is a beautiful and extremely efficient art form designed for targeting steelhead, salmon, and large trout on much larger river systems. Our Spey Schools demystify the two-handed rod, teaching you how to use the water’s surface tension to launch massive casts with very minimal effort. We hold this week each year at various lodges with hands-on instruction from Chris King in actual fishing situations that’ll get you “hooked”. You’ll spend your days on the water rather than in the classroom, putting the knowledge you learned the night before into real fishing action. Each night you’ll spend time after a day of

F LY

S H O P ® is excited to offer a 3-Day Spey School on the

Klamath River at Gold River Lodge. Chris King, FFI Master and TwoHanded Certified Instructor, will lead the instruction that will take you through basic Spey casting principles to fishing with the two-handed rod. Each instruction-packed lesson builds on the previous session, preparing both beginning and intermediate anglers for just about any Spey fishing situation. Expert instructors are on hand to guide students through the course, and our high teacher-student ratio ensures a cozy and personal atmosphere, with individual time and attention. An abundance of material is presented during this 3-day school and the practice sessions and lessons are presented in a fun and relaxed fashion – on the water. w w w . t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

Alaska

ﬁshing learning new techniques through hands-on instruction. Guests will be accommodated in either single or double occupancy rooms based on the lodge’s availability. The lodging will vary depending on the actual destination for the year, but we can ensure that you will be comfortable and well fed. s 7 Night / 6 Day package s Pricing varies depending on

the destination s Dates will be picked for 2027

based on lodge chosen Lava Creek Lodge photo

3-Day Spey School THE

April 23-30, 2028 $6,937.81

Klamath River, CA This school is held at Gold River Lodge, on the estuary of the Klamath River, and is located in the center of some of the best coastal steelhead country. August and September are historically one of the best times to get out on the Klamath River with good returns of feisty half-pounders, providing lots of action on the swung ﬂy. Guests are accommodated on a single occupancy basis in wellappointed rooms with full baths. All meals are provided from the beginning to the end. s 3 Night / 3 Day package

$2,695

s August 2027 (generally the first weekend)

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800-669-3474

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other terminal tackle, we will have plenty of gear. Of course, you’ll want to bring your favorite set up for the trip, but at the same time there will be additional gear your host will be carrying for you to try. And if your luggage gets lost or you break a rod, no worries, we have you covered. When we are on a trip with you, we do our best to make sure that everything is perfect. When that particular fly is working and you’ve run out, your host will have you covered.

Instruction

Hosted Trips T H E F L Y S H O P ’ S travel department is world renowned. Being essentially a travel agency specializing in fly fishing, we try to keep it simple and do one thing to the best of our ability. Customer service. From the most comprehensive travel and tackle planners in the business to working with our travel agency partners on domestic and international flights, charter flights, airport pickups, ground transfers, and layover accommodations, we lead our customers from start to finish on all of their adventures. We have been to the lodges we represent and know what is required for a successful angling trip. We have 48 years of experience in fly fishing retail and will set you up with the right gear for your trip. We know that your time on the water is precious and we pride ourselves in making sure that every aspect of your fly fishing holiday is exceptional. Want to see this level of customer service firsthand? Consider joining us on one of our Hosted Trips with one of the pros from The Fly Shop.® The following are just a few reasons we think a hosted trip is a great way to leave the work to us so you can make the most of your fishing time. We get quite a few questions concerning trips hosted by a team member of The Fly Shop®. s What’s the deal with these hosted trips? s Why go on a hosted trip versus going on my own? s What’s in it for the host? s What’s in it for me?

The pros at The Fly Shop® love to share their field knowledge. All of our hosts have guided, some for many years and others are still on the water, instructing and showing guests a great time every day. We are passionate about sharing our love of fly fishing with others and are patient and sensitive in the manner in which we share it. We want to make sure that everyone on each trip is successful. And there is no better way for us to do that than to be there on the water with you. On hosted trips we will be fishing along with you, sharing expertise with the local guides on the best way to put you on fish. You will find that your host from The Fly Shop® is gracious on shots at fish, and insisting on taking the back seat in the drift boat. And they are always humble at the dinner table. The host’s job isn’t to outshine the guests, but to help them to shine and have an amazing time.

Red Carpet Treatment The lodges we represent always roll out the red carpet for every guest of The Fly Shop®, no matter when you go. However, when one of us is on the trip, the carpet is dry-cleaned, ironed, and not a ﬁber is out of place. Because we continually send the lodge guests, they are always over-the-top with their hospitality and service while we are there. Usually it is the lodge that has asked us to host a trip, as they know the value in showing you (and us) a good time.

Avoid paying the single rate If you are a single angler who does not have a fishing partner, hosted trips are a great way to avoid paying a premium as a single angler. We will do our best to pair you with a like-minded angler that you can share your fishing day with. Who knows, you might just meet your next fishing buddy!

Easy Travel

Advocacy

Some destinations, like Alaska, Montana, or Canada involve simple travel logistics. However, Chile, Argentina, Mongolia, Bolivia, and others require much more complicated travel arrangements – airport pickups to customs, charter planes, overnights, visas, etc. When you join The Fly Shop® on a hosted trip, we will be there to help facilitate all of this for you. Even better is that we’re experts and we do this for a living, so we’ve seen it all and we can be especially helpful if there are any travel hiccups. We know who to contact, where to be and when to be there. The host runs “point” for the group from start to ﬁnish. It just makes sense to have a travel professional with you making sure every minute detail has been addressed and is in order. That makes for easy and seamless travel.

We are your advocates, ﬁrst and foremost. When you’re not happy with an aspect of your trip, the host has your back. The host is the conduit between you and the outﬁtter and will do everything in their power to rectify the situation.

Make New Friends There is a common thread with anglers on a hosted trip. Your host will have an idea of who to pair up for ﬁshing partners based on their relationship with each of the other guests on the trip. We’ve done this before and we have an innate ability to read the room. Most of us enjoy taking pictures – what better way to re-live a great trip than with a great photo to share with your family and friends, or hang in your den or oﬃce.

Gear When you travel with one of the pros from The Fly Shop,® it gives you the opportunity to try out some of the newest and best gear on the market. Instead of casting rods in the lawn at your local fly shop, you get the chance to use them on the water, actually fishing. From the latest rods and reels on the market to new fly patterns, leaders and

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Scan this QR code and take a look at some of our upcoming Hosted Trips and join one of The Fly Shop® Pros on their next adventure! i n f o @ t h e f ly s h o p . c o m

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LEADING THROUGH

INNOVATION.

SA Advisor Camille Egdorf McCormick

For over 80 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation. Sharpened by experience. Pushing the boundaries of material science to make our lines stronger and more durable. Then testing in the most demanding environments with the world’s best anglers. Those who demand the best choose Scientific Anglers.