# LINES FROM THE WATER: WHAT'S BUZZING IN FLY FISHING
Hey there, fellow anglers! If you've been too busy on the water to keep up with what's happening in our fly fishing world, I've got you covered with some of the hottest news items making waves this spring.
## Travel Is Back – Bigger Than Ever
The word from the Denver Fly Fishing Show earlier this year is that travel bookings are absolutely booming. If you thought you might have Montana's prime spots to yourself this season, think again! According to industry insiders, we're seeing more anglers than ever checking off bucket-list destinations[4].
South America continues to be the modern equivalent of the classic African safari, with operations like Untamed Angling cutting paths into pristine jungle fishing that'll make your Instagram followers green with envy. Meanwhile, our neighbors to the north and south (Canada and Mexico) are putting on the full-court press for American anglers, despite any trade tensions brewing elsewhere[4].
My advice? Book your guides now if you haven't already. Those prime summer dates are disappearing faster than mayflies during a hatch.
## Gear Guide Winners Just Announced
Fly Fisherman magazine just released their 2025 Gear Guide Award Winners back in November, and there are some sweet innovations hitting the shelves this spring[3].
While I can't share all the nitty-gritty details here (you'll need to grab a copy of their Gear Guide for that), word on the river is that several manufacturers have made significant breakthroughs in rod technology and wearable gear that's actually comfortable enough to wear all day on the water.
The Fly Shop's staff also recently shared their favorite new products for the season, and there are definitely some items worth checking out before your next trip[1].
## Show Season Heating Up
If you missed the Denver show back in February, don't worry - there are plenty more opportunities coming up to get hands-on with new gear and meet some of fly fishing's legends.
The Fly Fishing Show circuit has been making its way around the country, with events already held in Marlborough, Edison, and Atlanta[5]. These consumer-focused shows have become even more important since the American Fly Fishing Trade Association stopped hosting their trade show[4].
Besides the gear, what's really worth the price of admission is the chance to watch casting demonstrations, pick up new tying techniques, and maybe even book that dream trip with one of the many outfitters and lodges present.
## Spring Issue of The Drake Hits Shelves
The spring issue of The Drake magazine just came out in April, and it's packed with stories that'll make you antsy to get on the water. Features include everything from Wyoming trout and Louisiana redfish to Hawaii bonefish and classic tales from the River Test[2].
There's also a piece on photographing John Gierach (always worth a read) and what sounds like a fascinating story about dirtbagging through Patagonia. Perfect reading material for those inevitable spring rainstorms when you're stuck inside dreaming of tight lines and bent rods.
That's the latest from the fly fishing world. Tight lines until next time!