MCFF Open House

Costa Marlin Fly Project Press Release - 19 Oct 2023

 

Costa Sunglasses pioneers first recorded billfish research tagging mission completed on fly 

The ultimate culmination of community and conservation, Costa’s Marlin Fly Project benefits the Striped Marlin fishery in Magdalena Bay, Mexico and the people who depend on it

JUPITER, Fla. (Oct. 19, 2023) – Focused on conservation and driven by its community-based ethos, Costa Sunglasses is announcing the Marlin Fly Project, the first recorded billfish research mission solely using fly tackle. In partnership with the locals of San Carlos, Mexico, The Billfish Foundation (TBF) and International Game Fish Association (IGFA), the Marlin Fly Project team successfully deployed 15 satellite tags in two days to better understand and protect this understudied billfish species.

The project, which took place in Southwestern Baja, Mexico, December 2022, stands as the ultimate culmination of community and conservation. Led by Costa, it brought together Costa Pros (professional anglers and fishing guides), leading billfish scientists, conservation organizations, and community partners to pursue this mission in tandem with local captains, guides and the San Carlos community. 

“The epic fishing tales coming out of Magdalena “Mag” Bay alone attracted us to the region in 2021, but what we found there was an authentic community, rich with culture, built alongside an untamed ecosystem,” said Jed Larkin, Brand Director for Costa Sunglasses. “That trip sparked a trailblazing idea – what if we brought our global community of scientists, partners and pros together with the local community of San Carlos to research and protect this special resource? And that’s how Marlin Fly was born. Rooted in both community and conservation, this project is everything we stand for as a brand.” 

An eight minute documentary on the Marlin Fly Project can be seen HERE. 

“There’s no place on earth with an ecosystem quite like Mag Bay. Every year anglers from around the world travel to this unique destination to experience one of the most incredible billfish fisheries on the planet,” said Dr. Bruce Pohlot, IGFA Conservation Director. “But the reality is, there has not been a lot of scientific research done on this population of Striped Marlin in the Eastern Pacific. That’s why the IGFA was happy to jump on board with our longtime partners at Costa when they started asking questions about what can be done to protect this magnificent resource.” 

Of the 15 short and long term satellite tags that were deployed during the project, Costa resourced three tags to support IGFA’s Great Marlin Race, and seven were donated by TBF. The tags will track post release survivability, migrational patterns, swimming depth, and water temperature. An additional 20 spaghetti tags were deployed, which will provide important ongoing recapture data. The discoveries from Costa’s Marlin Fly Project will help fill crucial data gaps and aid in global and local efforts to conserve this highly migratory species (HMS). 

Scientists from The Billfish Foundation, International Game Fish Association, and the University of Southern Mississippi Center for Fisheries Research & Development, vetted all landed fish to make sure they were viable candidates prior to tagging. All landed and tagged fish were healthy and swam off strong.  

"Through this collaboration, Costa's Marlin Fly Project is set to collect unparalleled data about Striped Marlin that will help play a pivotal role in supporting conservation and enhancing fisheries management efforts,”  said Peter Chaibongsai, Director of Conservation Programs at The Billfish Foundation. “We’re honored to be a part of such a unique project that puts community at the forefront. The strong bond forged with the locals not only enables them, but also fosters a sense of advocacy. This ensures that the project's impact extends far beyond scientific research – it creates a network of passionate advocates dedicated to conserving this resource for years to come.”

Costa has spent the past four decades carrying out its ‘higher calling’ to protect the waters we love, connect those who come to life on the water, and to conserve the life within. The Marlin Fly Project is an extension of that commitment. In addition to the history-making, field-science study, the project served the local community through the following initiatives. 

Community-first nonprofit and original Costa-born project, Indifly, joined the mission to meet with the community of San Carlos and assess a potential social impact project. Inspired by both the people and operation, Indifly plans to collaborate with San Carlos, the Marlin Fly Project, and Los Locos to innovate ways for this vital community to write their own future. 

Costa partnered with Los Locos Mag Bay, a unique fly-fishing operation that employs and works directly with the locals of San Carlos, Mexico to support this one-of-a-kind community through angling tourism.

Building on Costa’s One Coast initiative for emergency preparedness, partner Finns West outfitted the Los Locos operation and guideboats with safety equipment and medical training. 

Costa partnered with Travel Creel, who hosted cooking classes in the community, and sourced produce, meats and seafood from local fisherman and farmers to prepare dinners each night to feed the crew. 

The Marlin Fly team participated in organized clean ups along San Carlos’ coastline, and on the final night hosted local guide families for a celebration, in gratitude for their hospitality and guidance.

The Marlin Fly Project will continue its mission to create advocates for the Striped Marlin fishery, both locally and globally, by fostering dynamic relationships and supporting this ecosystem and the people who depend on it. 

In honor of its 40th Anniversary, Costa Sunglasses will release its Second Edition: Protect Purpose Report next month. Led by the success of the Marlin Fly Project, The Protect Report highlights Costa’s commitment to conservation, community and sustainability in 2021-2022. 

For more information on Costa’s ongoing work to ‘protect what’s out there,’ as well as its complete collection of award-winning performance, optical and lifestyle frames, visit Costasunglasses.com.  

About Costa Sunglasses

As the first manufacturer of color-enhancing all-polarized glass sunglass lenses, Costa combines superior lens technology with unparalleled fit and durability. Costa has made the highest quality, best-performing sunglasses and prescription sunglasses (Rx) for outdoor enthusiasts since 1983, and now its product portfolio includes optical frames. Costa’s growing cult-brand status ties directly to its purpose to provide high-quality products with a focus on sustainability and conservation as the company works hard to protect the waters it calls home. From the use of sustainable and water-friendly materials to its Kick Plastic initiative, IndiFly Foundation, and meaningful partnerships with mission-aligned organizations, Costa encourages people to help protect the Earth’s natural resources in any way they can. Find out more on Costa’s website and join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter at @CostaSunglasses.

 

Media Contact: Hannah Trotter | hannah_ext@verdepr.com

GREYS INTRODUCES THE CRUISE REEL AND CRUISE COMBO - 17 Oct 2023

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   GREYS INTRODUCES THE CRUISE REEL AND CRUISE COMBO For the Adventurous Angler On a Budget

COLUMBIA, S.C. (Oct. 17, 2023) – Greys Fly Fishing is proud to unveil our latest offering, the CRUISE reel and CRUISE combo, designed with the dynamic, modern fly angler in mind. For those whose adventures span beyond just fly fishing, this combo is the ideal companion, marrying impeccable performance with unmatched value. Performance fly gear at an exceptional price is the Greys promise, and we’re sticking to it.   For those who don a backpack, love to capture their adventures, and tread both fresh and light saltwater terrains, the CRUISE range stands out as the perfect blend of utility and sophistication. The new CRUISE reel boasts a robust large arbor, stunning, full cage design, durable aluminum construction, and an efficient disc drag mechanism, ensuring your reel is built to withstand the demands of both freshwater and saltwater encounters.   Beyond just the reel, the all-new CRUISE combo offers beginners and enthusiasts a comprehensive package featuring a medium-fast action 4 pc CRUISE fly rod matched with the Greys CRUISE large arbor fly reel and comes ready to fish with backing, WF line, and leader, all neatly packaged in a premium rod and reel case. CRUISE REEL FEATURES: High quality die-cast, machine-finished construction Rulon disc drag system Modern large arbor industrial design Supplied with reel pouch Available in sizes 5/6 and 7/8   CRUISE COMBO FEATURES: 4 pc medium fast action Cruise fly rod Aluminum reel seat with carbon spacer High quality die-cast, machine finished Cruise reel Modern large arbor industrial design Rulon disc drag system Supplied in a quality hard rod and reel tube Matching backing, WF line, and leader Available in a 9’ 5-wt, 9’ 8-wt and 10’ 7-wt   In a world teeming with options, we understand the need for simplicity. The CRUISE Combo is the perfect kit for those who value both quality and price. Take the guesswork out of your first fly fishing outfit and opt for this carefully curated combo that ensures both quality and affordability, and dive into a world of fly without breaking the bank. After all, it's not just about catching the fish; it's about cherishing every moment of the journey.   The CRUISE Reel & CRUISE Combo are now available. Reel MSRP: Starting at $69.95 Combo MSRP: Starting at $189.95   For more details and purchasing options, visit our official website or connect with us on social.   ###   About Pure Fishing Pure Fishing is a collection of the world’s favorite fishing brands. Every day, all around the world, someone experiences the joy of catching a fish with one of our products. From gear for epic battles at sea to a relaxing day with family at the lake, our portfolio includes the most recognized and admired brands in fishing tackle, lures, rods, reels and storage. Abu Garcia®, Berkley®, DAM®, Fenwick®, Fin-Nor®, Frabill®, Greys®, Hardy®, Hodgman®, Johnson®, JRC®, Madcat®, Mitchell®, Penn®, Pflueger®, Plano®, Prologic®, Savage Gear®, Shakespeare®, SpiderWire®, Stren®, Ugly Stik® and Van Staal®.

AFFTA Confluence 2023 After Show Press Release

Sorry Folks,

  My plans had fallen through for attending this year's AFFTA Confluence out in Salt Lake City.  I'm hopeful to attend next year so I can bring you my usual "from the show floor" coverage.  Until then, here's the end of show press release from AFFTA.

  Thanks, 

    Have a great day!

      And, happy fishing!

         -Nick

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AFFTA Confluence 2023: Celebrating Excellence in the Fly Fishing Industry

Salt Lake City, Utah, September 28, 2023 — The AFFTA Confluence event, held from

September 26 to 28, 2023, was a resounding success, marked by industry recognition,

outstanding product awards, and a clear vision for the future. The American Fly Fishing Trade

Association (AFFTA) proudly announces the winners of the New Product Showcase, the Far

Bank Casting Games competition winners, the Iron Fly winner, as well as the recipients of the

Lefty Kreh Industry Award and the Jim Range Conservation Award.

New Product Showcase Winners

● Men's Wader: Patagonia - River Steward Wader

● Women's Wader: Patagonia - Women's Swiftcurrent Expedition Zip-Front Waders

● Men's Wading Boot: Patagonia - Forra Wading Boots

● Women's Wading Boot: Patagonia - Forra Wading Boots

● Men's Outerwear: Orvis - Men's PRO Fishing Jacket

● Women's Outerwear: Orvis - Women's PRO Fishing Jacket

● Men's Apparel: Patagonia - Men's Tropic Comfort Natural UPF Hoody

● Women's Apparel: Patagonia - Women's Tropic Comfort Natural UPF Shirt

● Fly Rod - Freshwater: Redington - Wrangler Rod Family

● Fly Rod - Saltwater: Sage - Salt R8

● Fly Rod - Two Hand/Spey: Scott - Swing

● Fly Reel - Freshwater: Sage - Arbr XL Tempest Blue

● Fly Reel - Saltwater: Sage - Enforcer

● Fly Line - Freshwater: Scientific Angler - Amplitude Smooth Infinity Plus

● Fly Line - Saltwater: Scientific Angler - Amplitude Smooth Bonefish Plus

● Leader/Tippet: Airflo USA - Airflo Standard Fluorocarbon 50m

● Hooks: Daiichi (Ranger Outdoors) - 1719-10- Matte Black Barbless

● Chest Pack/Vest: Simms Fishing Products - Flyweight Vest Pack

● Boxes/Storage System: C&F Design NA (Ranger Outdoors) - 16 - Grand Slam Guide

Boat Box

● Fly Pattern - Freshwater: RIO Products - RIO's Morrish Level Headed Damsel

● Fly Pattern - Saltwater: RIO Products - RIO's Webster Crouser

● Fly Tying Vices & Tools: Dyna King - Barracuda Deluxe

● Fly Tying Materials: Semperfli - EggStatic Egg Fly Tying Collections

● Eco Friendly Gear: Rio Products - RIO Compostable Spool

● Bags and Packs: Grundens - Grundens Wayward Roll Top Backpack 38L

● Youth Product: Simms Fishing Products - Kid's Tributary Wader

● Accessory: Dr. Slick Company - Cyclone Nipper

● Gift Items: RepYourWater - Rainbow Snacks Lowball Glass

New Product Showcase “Best of Show” winner: Patagonia - River Steward Wader

These New Product Showcase winners represent the pinnacle of innovation and quality in the

fly fishing industry, showcasing exceptional products that stood out at AFFTA Confluence 2023.

In addition to the Best of Show awards, AFFTA proudly acknowledges the remarkable

individuals who have made significant contributions to the fly fishing community:

Lefty Kreh Industry Award Winner: Tom Rosenbauer

Tom Rosenbauer's dedication to the industry and his passion for fly fishing have left an indelible

mark. As the recipient of the Lefty Kreh Industry Award, Tom's tireless efforts and commitment

to educating and inspiring fly anglers have enriched the sport and nurtured the next generation

of enthusiasts.

Jim Range Conservation Award Winner: Steve Moyer

Steve Moyer's outstanding conservation work and advocacy for our natural resources have

earned him the Jim Range Conservation Award. His dedication to protecting our waters,

fisheries, and ecosystems is a testament to his unwavering commitment to conservation and

sustainability.

Far Bank Casting Games Competition Winners:

Nick Treynor: Score of 498

Heidi Lewis: Score of 331

Iron Fly Winner: Brita Fordice

AFFTA's Executive Director, Lucas Bissett, shared their thoughts on the event: "AFFTA's 2023

Confluence not only had a new name but also had a sense of new beginnings. As we look to the

future of our industry, we aim to reimagine our gatherings. This year's trade event was

meaningful and was packed with educational seminars, DEI discussions, policy roundtable

discussions, and the TrackFly State of the Industry Report."

"We will build off the successes of this show and forge an event in 2024 that represents the

needs of our membership and achieves the goal of giving our industry the competitive

advantage it needs to expand to new heights. Stay tuned for an industry gathering survey

coming out in the immediate future."

AFFTA Confluence 2023 celebrated the excellence and dedication of the fly fishing community,

setting the stage for an exciting future in the industry.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Lucas Bissett

Executive Director

lucas.bissett@affta.org

About AFFTA:

The American Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA) is a community of fly fishing businesses

joined together under one banner. That community makes up a powerful trade association. This

trade association represents, fights for and unifies our industry around the values and ethos

found within those who make up the industry. Without this type of representation, the fly fishing

industry would not have the power, voice or recognition it currently does, everywhere from

Washington, D.C., down to the smallest fisheries in the country. The AFFTA community and

banner provide strength, advocacy, conservation and innovation. AFFTA’s mission is to guide

the sustainable growth of the fly fishing industry through Trade Development and Stewardship.

AFFTA has a sister organization that focuses solely on stewardship/conversation and acts as

the small grants arm of the fly fishing industry. If you want to help fund these vital boots on the

ground projects, donate today to the AFFTA Fisheries Fund.