Proceeds from the 19th Annual Fly Fishing Film Tour will go to help preserve fishing for next generation

Sheridan Community Land Trust Executive Director Brad Bauer and Clark Smyth and Dakota Webb from the Fly Shop of the Bighorns made an appearance on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse to talk about the upcoming Fly Fishing Film Tour on March 8.

SCLT and The Fly Shop of the Bighorns have partnered to promote the 19th Annual Fly Fishing Film Tour. 

Hosted by the WYO Performing Arts and Education Center, North Western Wyoming anglers, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventure seekers are invited to join as this year’s event promises to be the biggest yet, with a lineup of films that highlight remote locations, unique challenges, and the passionate anglers who pursue them. 

Smyth, co-owner of the Fly Shop of the Bighorns and Angling Destination, said the films are from many amazing areas, but inspire people to seek the open lands and opportunities that the Bighorns offer. 

C. Smyth

According to a 2021 report from the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, the number of fly fishing participants has grown from 5.5 million in 2010 to 7.8 million in 2020. During the same period, the participation rate grew from 1.9% of the U.S. population to 2.6%.

For many, reeling in the big one is a thrill that can be produced by any other experience. But, catching the fish is just a small part of that experience. Being outside, communing with nature and the journey to the many remote locations are the goals, according to lifelong angler Dakota Webb of Fly Shop of the Bighorns.  

D. Webb

This year’s Fly Fishing Film Tour features many films that work to capture the serenity and adventure of fly fishing. The Fly Fishing Film Tour at the WYO this year will feature raffle prizes such as a two person, all-day guided fly fishing in the Bighorns with Seth Carrel & Spear-O-Wigwam, a Garmin GPSMAP 67i GPS Handheld from WYLD Adventures and more. 

Last year’s event sold out quickly, organizers recommend pre-purchasing tickets and even offer a discount to do so. Tickets are $20 when purchased in advance and $25 the day of the festival; Saturday, March 8.

This year, all proceeds help support SCLT’s conservation, history, and outdoor recreation missions, preserving the land for the next generation. Which includes opening a new public fishery at the SCLT Big Goose Natural Area.

B. Bauer

Doors will open 4:30 p.m. with films beginning at 5:45 p.m.  Tickets can be purchased in person at Fly Shop of the Bighorns or online at wyotheater.com.