If you’re a die-hard fly angler or a weekend rod-waver, 2025 has already dropped some stories worth repeating over a campfire. Here’s a rundown of what’s buzzing in the world of US fly fishing right now—and trust me, you’ll want to keep your waders handy.

First up, mark your calendars for September 26th and 27th because Grand Rapids, Michigan, is about to turn into a fly fishing hotspot. Fly Fishers International is bringing back its big annual shindig, FFI Flyfest, and after a few years of mostly virtual events, folks are stoked to see it return in person[5]. If you’ve never fished the Grand River during coho season, you’re missing out—the town itself becomes one big riverside hangout, and the salmon run draws both grizzled old-timers and curious first-timers. Add in hands-on workshops, fly tying demos, and some solid craft beer, and you’ve got a weekend you won’t forget.

Gear nerds, this year is going to be rough on your wallets. The crew at The Fly Shop just dropped their list of the hottest new gear for 2025, and it’s pure temptation[2]. Think rods that practically cast themselves, featherweight reels, and a new generation of beginner kits that actually hold up to abuse. If you’ve been thinking about treating yourself—or you know a friend you want to drag into the sport—now’s the time. The best beginner rods of 2025 are so forgiving that even your cousin who still thinks a woolly bugger is a pest might come home with fish stories[4].

Let’s not forget about the pros showing us how it’s done. The World Fly Fishing Championships just wrapped up another session, and while most of the hype always lands overseas, it’s clear US anglers are still making a strong showing. The latest session at the Lipno II Reservoir had everyone strategizing for freshly stocked trout[3]. Folks are already dissecting the winning tactics—think stealth, precision, and some serious improvisation. Whether you’re tying up your next competition fly or just looking for ways to finally outsmart that local brown trout, there’s plenty to learn from the world stage.

And if you’re looking to stay inspired between river trips, The Drake’s 2025 Spring issue is worth picking up—expect stories from Wyoming trout streams to Louisiana redfish, with a little Hawaiian bonefish for good measure. It’s not all grip-and-grin photos either; there’s some real dirtbag wisdom and adventure in these pages for those who live and breathe fly fishing[1].

So whether you’re planning a road trip to Michigan, itching for that new rod, or just needing a fix of fishing tales, 2025 is already shaping up to keep fly anglers busy and grinning. Tight lines, and here’s hoping you’re the one with the fish story worth telling next.

If you’re itching to get your fly wet and swap tales on the riverbank, there’s plenty of fresh buzz in the U.S. fly fishing scene this June. Pull on your waders—here’s the latest from the water, with a locals-only flavor.

First off, Central Oregon is in its glory days and the bugs are popping. The Green Drake hatch is in full swing, and the Salmonfly hatch is lighting up stretches of the big river. If you’re chasing mayflies, now’s the time around spots like the Metolius River. The PMDs, Green Drakes, and Blue Wing Olives are all coming off strong. Folks have been matching the hatch with everything from nymphs and emergers to cripples, duns, and rusty spinners. There’s even talk about a new mayfly—the Nixe—showing up in the canyon, giving the regulars something fresh to chase. If you’re a dry fly purist or just love tinkering with patterns, this is your season. Oh, and don’t sleep on the Purple Comparadun—it’s a shop-favorite even when it doesn’t match the hatch color. The summer vibe is real, and new docks at Crane Prairie are drawing crowds for those who want to mix up their routine with some stillwater action[5].

For anyone itching for new toys, The Fly Shop just dropped their list of hottest new fly fishing gear for 2025. The staff is all abuzz about the latest rods, reels, and gadgets—think lighter, snappier, and more forgiving for both rookies and vets. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your streamer setup or just want something shiny for the season’s exploits, there’s plenty hitting the shelves to drool over[2]. Meanwhile, Flylords Mag gave the lowdown on the best beginner fly rods in 2025, if you’ve got a buddy looking to get hooked or you’re just after a reliable backup stick[4].

Big news on the competition circuit too—the 2025 World Fly Fishing Championships just wrapped up another session at Lipno II Reservoir. The stocked trout put up a feisty (and sometimes frustrating) fight, forcing even the top rods to rethink their tactics. The mix of wild and hatchery fish had everyone swapping war stories about what worked and what didn’t. It’s a reminder that even at the highest levels, you never stop learning on the water[3].

And if you like a good read between outings, the new spring issue of The Drake Magazine is turning heads. This one’s packed with a classic spread: Wyoming trout, Louisiana redfish, Colorado streamers, and some salty tales from Hawaii and the Bahamas. If you’re looking for travel inspo or just want to lose yourself in top-shelf writing, snag a copy[1].

So grab your flies, your favorite rod, and maybe a six-pack for after the hatch. The rivers are waking up, the gear is shiny, and the stories are just waiting to be written. Tight lines!

Fly fishing gossip’s buzzing louder than a cicada hatch this spring, so grab your rod and let’s wade into the freshest news making ripples around the country.

First up, the big international showdown: the 2025 World Fly Fishing Championships just kicked off in the Czech Republic. Our own USA Fly Fishing Team—Jack Arnot, Michael Bradley, Cody Burgdorff, Mike Komara, and Devin Olsen—are out there right now, battling anglers from all over the world across five diverse waters, from classic rivers to a tough-as-nails lake beat. If you know anything about Czech nymphing, you know those streams can humble even the best, but the U.S. team’s been putting in the hours on the water. Word is, the freshly stocked trout in the Lipno II Reservoir session added some real curveballs just to keep life interesting, keeping even seasoned pros guessing about what patterns would unlock those picky fish[2][4]. Fingers crossed our crew brings home some hardware.

Back stateside, gearheads have plenty to ogle, too. Fly Fisherman magazine just dropped their 2025 Gear Guide award winners, and the buzz is all about innovation. This year’s list is shaping up to be a gear junkie’s wish list, from rods that promise tighter loops for streamer addicts to waders with next-level comfort for those dawn-to-dusk marathon sessions. If your tackle box hasn’t been upgraded in a while, now’s your excuse to do a little shopping and see what actually earned the field-tested stamp of approval[3].

On the festival front, mark your calendars: Fly Fishers International announced their big return to Grand Rapids, Michigan, with FFI Flyfest set for September 26th and 27th, 2025. This time, it’s all in-person—none of that staring-at-Zoom business. It’s shaping up to be a can’t-miss for anglers of all stripes, packed with clinics, workshops, conservation talks, and, of course, plenty of hands-on fishing. The timing couldn’t be better, either: late September is prime time for coho salmon runs on the Grand River, so you can sneak in some chrome hunting right downtown after soaking up casting tips from the pros[5].

And sneaking an early peek into The Drake magazine’s 2025 Spring Issue, there’s buzz about some epic Wyoming trout stories, a dive into Louisiana redfish on the fly, and even a dispatch from Hawaii’s bonefish flats. Dirty boots, epic road trips, and the kind of fish-tale inspiration that’ll have you dusting off your calendar for a spring adventure[1].

Whether you’re chasing medals, the latest gear, or just that next great fish story, it’s a good time to be a fly angler in America right now.

If you’ve been hanging around the riverbanks, tying a few flies during lunch breaks, and keeping an ear out for the latest buzz in fly fishing, there’s been plenty to talk about this spring.

First up, the USA Fly Fishing Team is in the heat of competition at the 2025 World Fly Fishing Championships in the Czech Republic. The boys—Jack Arnot, Michael Bradley, Cody Burgdorff, Mike Komara, and Devin Olsen—are out there casting dries and working streamers against the world’s best, fishing four rivers and a big lake over five days. The freshly stocked trout in the Lipno II Reservoir even threw a curveball at some of the pros, making things extra interesting. There’s a lot of pride on the line, and, as always, the American team came to play[2][4].

Back stateside, fly fishers are already eyeing Grand Rapids, Michigan, for FFI Flyfest 2025 this September. It’s been a minute since the big in-person gatherings, but Fly Fishers International is making it happen with an all-out event—casting clinics, fly-tying demos, and conservation workshops. The city is smack dab in prime time for the coho salmon run on the Grand River, so you can expect the banks to be packed with anglers looking for that salmon tug in an urban setting[5].

Speaking of gear, Fly Fisherman’s 2025 Gear Guide just dropped, and there’s a fresh crop of waders, rods, and gadgets that’ll have your wallet trembling. The top-reviewed gear this year is field-tested and built for those early-morning starts in cold mist or mid-afternoon slogs through thick brush. If you’re the type who drools over a smooth drag or a feather-light graphite blank, this year’s winners are worth checking out before your next trip[3].

And if you’re looking for a little inspiration for your next adventure, the spring issue of The Drake Magazine is packed with stories: Wyoming trout, Hawaiian bonefish, and even a piece on Bahamian bones. There’s a spread on the legendary River Test and a look at streamer junkies chasing bigger fish with meatier patterns. It’s the kind of reading that’ll have you dreaming up new water to explore before you even finish your coffee[1].

So whether you’re rooting for Team USA, planning a salmon chase in Michigan, ogling the latest gear, or just soaking in good fishing tales, it’s a good time to be in the fly fishing crowd. See you out there—preferably on the water, rod in hand.

# TIGHT LINES AND HOT TIPS: JUNE FLY FISHING BUZZ

Hey there, fellow fly flingers! While you're tying up those summer patterns, here's what's buzzing in the fly fishing world this June:

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS WRAP-UP
The 2025 World Fly Fishing Championships just wrapped up in the Czech Republic, where Team USA and 32 other countries battled it out last month[5]. Session 3 at Lipno II Reservoir proved particularly challenging with freshly stocked trout throwing curveballs at even the most seasoned competitors[2]. Our own Devin Olsen was in the thick of it, showcasing his micro leader euro nymphing techniques against tough competition including Howard Croston and Team England. The pocketed rivers played right into the hands of euro nymphing specialists, with competitors alternating between single nymph and dry dropper setups to fool those selective Czech trout.

DESCHUTES MOSQUITO MADNESS
If you're heading to the Upper Deschutes right now, pack your bug spray and maybe a head net unless you want to donate a pint to the local mosquito population! Despite the bug situation, the fishing is actually firing on all cylinders[3]. Green Drakes are making appearances in the headwaters, alongside PMDs, Caddis, Yellow Sallys, and terrestrials. Word is the Golden Stone hatch is still about 10 days out, but don't let that stop you from throwing some Clark's Stones ahead of the main event. Mono-rig setups with euro-nymphs (particularly Dark or Light Walts Worms and various Perdigons) are producing consistently.

FALL RIVER FEEDING FRENZY
The Fall River is fishing exceptionally well right now, thanks in part to ODFW's recent stocking efforts[3]. PMDs and Olive Caddis are the headline acts, with a #16 Henryville or #16 Olive Elk Hair Caddis being your go-to dries. For those PMD hatches, try Film Critics and Knock Down Duns as emerger patterns. Local guides are reporting good success with Harrops Captive Dun in PMD colors, a pattern that's traditionally crushed it during Callibaetis hatches on stillwaters. Pack the bug juice here too—the mosquitoes are making themselves known, especially around the Falls, Tubes, and Campground areas.

SPRING READING FOR RAINY DAYS
For those inevitable summer thunderstorms that keep you off the water, the spring issue of The Drake Magazine is still available and packed with content to fuel your fishing daydreams[1]. This edition features pieces on Wyoming trout, Louisiana redfish, Hawaii bonefish, and the legendary River Test. There's also coverage on Bahamian bones and Atlantic adventures to scratch that saltwater itch if you're planning a coastal escape this summer.

So there you have it, folks—enough fishing intel to keep your line tight and your fly box ready. Remember, the best time to go fishing is whenever you can!

# Tight Lines and Big News: What's Buzzing in the Fly Fishing World

Hey there, fellow fly enthusiasts! If you've been too busy perfecting your cast to catch up on the latest, let me reel you in on what's happening in our world right now.

The Women's Fly Fishing World Championship is making history as it comes to U.S. waters for the first time ever! Mark your calendars for July 13-18, 2025, when Island Park, Idaho will host seven international teams competing for glory. Opening ceremonies kick off on the 13th, with four intense days of competition to follow. What's cool is that the U.S. Women's Team, though only established in 2022, has already made waves on the international scene. They're going up against powerhouse countries like the Czech Republic and England, whose teams have been established for much longer[5].

Speaking of championships, the 2025 World Fly Fishing Championships just wrapped up its third session at Lipno II Reservoir. The competition featured a unique challenge with freshly stocked trout that had anglers adjusting their strategies on the fly (pun intended). If you're looking to pick up some new techniques, watching how these pros handled the pressure might give you some ideas for your next outing[1].

For the gear heads among us, Fly Fisherman magazine recently announced their 2025 Gear Guide Award Winners. If you want to geek out over the latest rods, reels, and flies that made the cut, you can find all the nitty-gritty, field-tested reviews in their Gear Guide 2025. Nothing beats getting your hands on equipment that's been put through its paces by seasoned anglers before you drop your hard-earned cash[3].

And if you're itching to escape winter and see what's new in the industry, the Fly Fishing Show 2025 tour is about to hit the road. The first stop was in Marlborough, Massachusetts from January 17-19, with more locations to follow. These shows are perfect for checking out new gear, attending workshops, and swapping fish stories with like-minded folks. Plus, it's a great excuse to dream about summer days on the water while we're still dealing with winter weather in some parts of the country[4].

For the literary types, don't miss The Drake Magazine's 2025 Spring Issue, featuring stories about Wyoming trout, Louisiana redfish, and Hawaii bonefish. There's also coverage of the legendary River Test, some Patagonian adventures, and Bahamian bones. Nothing beats armchair fishing when you can't get to the water[2].

So there you have it - from world championships to gear reviews, there's plenty happening in our corner of the outdoor world. Now get out there and fish... unless you're waiting for your new gear to arrive!

# Tight Lines and Big News: What's Buzzing in the Fly Fishing World

Hey there, fellow fly flingers! While you've been mending your line and perfecting your cast, some pretty exciting stuff has been happening in our beloved sport. Let me catch you up on what's been making waves across American waters lately.

The USA just landed some serious hardware at the 2025 World Fly Fishing Championships in the Czech Republic! Our boys brought home the bronze medal for the second consecutive year, showing the world that American anglers can hang with the best of them[5]. Cherokee, North Carolina's own Michael Bradley snagged the individual bronze as well, outfishing some legendary names in competitive angling[5]. Not too shabby for a country that sometimes gets overlooked in the international fly fishing scene!

Speaking of world championships, history is being made right in our backyard. For the first time ever, the Women's Fly Fishing World Championship is coming to U.S. waters! The competition kicks off in Island Park, Idaho, bringing the planet's most skilled women anglers to test their mettle on our home rivers[1]. If you're anywhere near the area, this is something you definitely don't want to miss.

For the gear heads among us, 2025 has already been a banner year. The spring lineup of new equipment is absolutely massive, with over 60 new products hitting the market[3]. Industry veterans Jeff Wagner and Gareth Jones have brought their updated Airlites rods stateside under the Mayfly umbrella[3]. If you've been waiting for an excuse to upgrade your arsenal, tax return season and all these shiny new options make for a dangerous combination!

And if you're flipping through fishing mags while waiting for your favorite hatch, the latest Spring issue of The Drake is out with some killer features on Wyoming trout, Louisiana redfish, Hawaii bonefish, and more[4]. Perfect reading material while you're planning your next big adventure.

Whether you're chasing brookies in the Appalachians, stalking carp along the Snake River Plain, or hunting reds and specks in Gulf Coast backwaters, the 2025 season is shaping up to be extraordinary. The waters are warming, the fish are rising, and there's never been a better time to be waving a stick.

Now put down your phone and go fish! Those trout aren't going to catch themselves.

It’s been a wild month for folks obsessed with fly fishing, and honestly, you’d be forgiven if you missed some of these killer stories that have anglers buzzing from the Rockies to the Carolinas.

First up, big congrats are in order for the USA Fly Fishing Team, who just brought home the bronze at the 2025 World Fly Fishing Championships in the Czech Republic. Talk about holding your own against the world’s best. For the second year in a row, Team USA snagged third place—proof that American anglers are hitting their stride on the global stage. Even better, Michael Bradley from Cherokee, North Carolina, landed the individual bronze, topping some serious heavyweights in the sport. If you ever doubted the level of skill in competitive fly fishing, these folks just put that to bed. The camaraderie and dedication at that level? Next level stuff[1].

Meanwhile, if you’re itching for inspiration (or just a reason to get out of the house), the iconic Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) is crisscrossing the US again this summer. This marks the 19th annual run for what’s become a pilgrimage for fly fishing junkies—think high-octane storytelling from the flats of the Bahamas to trout streams in the Rockies. There are screenings everywhere: San Diego, Winter Park, Pinetop, New York, you name it. Pack a friend, grab a brew, and get ready to watch some of the best fly fishing films ever captured—this is where you find your tribe and maybe even plan your next trip[5].

But what really caught my eye is the surge in innovation and gear for 2025. Whether you’re a gadget nut or a “just give me a basic rod and clean water” kind of angler, there’s no ignoring the new tech rolling out. From next-gen reels to smarter wading jackets, the reviews and fresh picks are coming in hot. If your fly box or pack needs an upgrade, this is the year to do it. Shops and magazines are calling out their award winners, so you won’t have trouble finding something slick to add to your setup before your next river run[3][4].

And finally, on a note that deserves a hat tip: there’s a crew of female-owned and operated guide services making serious waves by getting more women onto the water. The sport’s got a reputation for being a boys’ club, but these guides are flipping the script and making it a whole lot more welcoming for everyone. Add in veterans using fly fishing to help fellow service members heal, and you can see fly fishing isn’t just about the catch—it’s about community and giving back[1].

So whether you’re tying on a new streamer, cheering for Team USA, or just daydreaming about the next float trip, fly fishing in 2025 is anything but boring. See you on the water.

# Tight Lines and Bronze Medals: What's Buzzing in American Fly Fishing

Hey there, fellow anglers! If you've been too busy tying flies or wading in your favorite stream to keep up with the latest fly fishing news, I've got you covered with some fresh catches from around the country.

USA Takes Bronze at World Championships - Again!

Our boys just brought home some serious hardware from the Czech Republic! The USA Fly Fishing Team clinched bronze at the 2025 World Fly Fishing Championships last week, making it back-to-back bronze medals for our national squad[1]. Not too shabby, right? Even more impressive, North Carolina's own Michael Bradley snagged an individual bronze medal, standing tall against the best anglers on the planet[1]. For anyone who thinks competitive fly fishing isn't "real" fishing, these folks are proving that American anglers can hang with the best of them on the world stage.

The F3T is Rolling Through Town

Grab your buddies and mark your calendars because the 19th annual Fly Fishing Film Tour is making its way across the country right now! This month alone, they've got shows lined up in San Diego (June 3), Winter Park, Colorado (June 7), Pinetop, Arizona (June 14), and even a rooftop screening in New York City on June 17[5]. If you've never been to one of these events, you're missing out on some serious fish porn and storytelling that'll have you itching to get on the water.

New Gear Alert: 2025's Hottest Tackle

It's that time of year when manufacturers drop their latest and greatest gear for the upcoming season. Fly Fisherman magazine just announced their 2025 Gear Guide Award Winners, recognizing the most innovative new rods, reels, and accessories[2]. If you're like me and always looking for an excuse to add to your collection, you'll want to grab a copy and see what might need to find its way into your fishing arsenal. The Fly Shop has also released their staff picks for the hottest new fly fishing products of 2025[3], giving us plenty of options to drool over.

Ladies World Championships Coming to US Waters

Looking ahead, USAngling will be hosting the 2025 Ladies FIPS Mouche Fly Fishing World Championships right here on American water[4]. This is a big deal for women's fly fishing and a great opportunity to see some of the world's best female anglers in action. Women's participation in fly fishing has been growing steadily, with female-owned guide services helping bring more women into the sport[1].

Whether you're a competitive angler, gear junkie, film buff, or just someone who loves to feel the tug on the end of the line, there's plenty happening in the fly fishing world to keep you entertained when you're not on the water. Tight lines, friends!

# TIGHT LINES: LATEST BUZZ FROM THE FLY FISHING WORLD

Hey fellow anglers! If you've been too busy on the water to keep up with the latest fly fishing news, I've got you covered with some exciting developments that might have flown under your radar.

## USA TAKES BRONZE AT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS - AGAIN!

Our boys did it again! The USA Fly Fishing Team just snagged a bronze medal at the 2025 World Fly Fishing Championships in the Czech Republic last week. This marks the second consecutive year they've landed on the podium - pretty impressive consistency against the world's elite anglers[1].

Even more exciting, Michael Bradley from Cherokee, North Carolina, brought home individual bronze, outfishing some of the biggest names in competitive fly fishing. For anyone who thinks competitive angling isn't "real" fishing, these achievements prove the incredible skill level of our national team[1].

## GEAR SEASON IS HEATING UP

If you're a gear junkie like me, you've probably been eyeing what's new for 2025. The Denver Fly Fishing Show in February was absolutely packed with innovations. With AFFTA no longer hosting their trade show, Denver has become the unofficial industry gathering spot where companies showcase their latest and greatest[5].

Want to know what's really trending? Travel packages are exploding right now. The show floor was crawling with agents, lodges, and outfitters - more than in recent memory. Post-COVID, anglers seem dead-set on checking off those bucket list destinations. From Canada and Mexico to the jungles of South America, the options are endless[5].

If you're planning a domestic trip to Montana this year, better lock in those dates soon. Word on the street is that prime season will be even busier than usual[5].

## NEW GEAR AWARDS HITTING SHELVES

The annual Fly Fisherman magazine Gear Guide Awards have been announced, highlighting the standout products for 2025. If you want the detailed scoop on what made the cut, grab the Gear Guide 2025 issue at your local newsstand[4].

The Fly Shop has also released their staff picks for hottest new fly fishing products this year. These are the items that impressed the folks who spend every day surrounded by fishing gear - definitely worth checking out before your next big purchase[2].

Whether you're planning your next adventure, upgrading your kit, or just looking to stay connected to the sport, there's plenty happening in the fly fishing world right now. Tight lines, friends!