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.

Hardy 1912 Perfect Fly Reel -- Press Release 19 Sept 2023

 

INTRODUCING THE 1912 PERFECT FLY REEL BY HARDY FLY FISHING

A tribute to Timeless Craftsmanship and Heritage COLUMBIA, S.C. (Sept. 19, 2023)  — Hardy Fly Fishing, a name synonymous with innovation and master craftsmanship, is proud to announce the release of its latest masterpiece: The 1912 Perfect Fly Reel. A modern rendition of an iconic reel, this piece is set to captivate both anglers and collectors alike. Crafted in the heart of Alnwick, England, by the renowned Hardy Bros master craftsmen, the 1912 Perfect Fly Reel embodies over a century of fly fishing expertise and passion. This reel is not just a fishing tool; it's a piece of history brought to life in the hands of modern anglers. “In every turn and click of the 1912 Perfect Fly Reel, you’ll find a seamless blend of history and modern innovation. At Hardy, our commitment to unparalleled craftsmanship and dedication to the sport is unwavering,” said Jim Murphy, Director of Fly Fishing for Hardy. “This reel is a testament to our journey over the years, capturing the essence of our heritage and the vision for the future in one exquisite piece. It's more than just a reel; it’s a part of the Hardy legacy.” Since its inception, Hardy Fly Fishing has been at the forefront of fly fishing innovation. The original 1912 Perfect reel is a reflection of this legacy — a reel that, in its time, set the standard for reliability and craftsmanship. The reimagined 1912 Perfect Fly Reel is not just a nod to our illustrious past; it’s a celebration of a rich heritage that continues to inspire and shape the future of fly fishing. KEY FEATURES: Iconic 1912 Check Mechanism:  A testament to its original design, providing an unparalleled user experience. Red Agate Line Guard:  A nod to the quality and craftsmanship owned only by Hardy Classic Narrow Spool Design:  Faithfully capturing the timeless aesthetics of its predecessor. Deep Anodized Gunmetal Finish: A robust, sleek finish that ensures longevity and elegance. Material Excellence:  Engineered from bar stock aluminum with a naval brass 1-piece spindle, this reel boasts not only beauty but durability. Available in both left and right-hand models to cater to all angling enthusiasts. Authentic Hardy Reel Pouch:  Each reel is supplied in a soft leather, sheepskin-lined Hardy reel pouch, a luxurious touch for safe storage and transport. MSRP:  The 1912 Perfect Fly Reel is available immediately with an MSRP of $895. For anglers and collectors who cherish the history and legacy of fly fishing, the 1912 Perfect Fly Reel is more than just a reel; it's an embodiment of tradition and innovation, capturing the soul of Hardy Fly Fishing. To learn more information about Hardy Fly Fishing, please click here. ###

Costa Sunglasses King Tide Full Release -- 12 Sept 2023

 Good morning, Folks!

   Yesterday I received the press release from my contacts at Costa Sunglasses introducing the full release of the King Tide Collection and wanted to pass it along.  You can find my photos of the glasses on Instagram (@thesuburbanangler) when I had the chance to check them out at ICAST 2023 this past summer.  There are a ton of features crammed into these frames and I really liked the more traditional styling.  Check them out if you get the chance, they should be arriving in a shop near you any time now, and let me know what you think.

   Have a great day and tight lines!

      -Nick

Costa Sunglasses casts global release of King Tide, the crowning achievement of Costa’s 40 years on the water

Continuing momentum from its premiere, sold out limited edition release, and ‘Best in Show’ Award at ICAST, the full line of King Tide is now available 

JUPITER, Fla. (Sept. 12, 2023) – Building off of the success of its limited pre-release, Costa Sunglasses, manufacturer of the first color-enhancing all-polarized glass sunglass lens, launches the full collection of King Tide, its most advanced and technical sunglass frame to date. Five years in the making, King Tide is a celebration of Costa’s 40 year history on the water, and the culmination of every frame that came before it. 

Now available on CostaSunglasses.com and retail partners worldwide, King Tide is built for those who seek performance from their eyewear both on and off the water. For the first time in Costa’s history, this frame is available in two styles – King Tide 6, a six-base frame with a straighter wrap and King Tide 8, a full wrap-around eight base version, giving elite watermen and anglers a choice in style and fit at the highest level of functionality. 

Technical specs on both frames include removable side shields for optimal use on and off the water, shark inspired venting to achieve a near impossible zero-fog effect, top of the line sweat management, and the introduction of non-skid hooding to keep your frames exactly where you set them, no matter the conditions. For a behind the scenes look at how these frames came to life, check out the King Tide video here. 

Captain Chris Wittman, Co-Founder of Captains for Clean Water,  was one of the first pros to put King Tide through the paces in Hawaii, here is what he had to say: “The features, fit, and functionality are second to none, and excelled in every scenario we put them through. From walking bonefish flats, to trolling for wahoo offshore, it is extremely apparent these frames were thoughtfully crafted with the most hardcore anglers and adventurers in mind. From pinnacle products, to supporting an organization rooted in community, Costa does it best. King Tide is a homerun and will be hard to top for years to come.” 

This global launch marks the third and final wave of the 40 year celebratory King Tide release, which started in July 2023. King Tide was first available as an avant premiere at select VIP specialty retailers, as a nod to the brick and mortar stores that helped build the Costa brand. 

Shortly thereafter, Costa dropped a 40th Anniversary Limited Edition King Tide in a black gold frame and never before seen 580G gold lens. With only 40 frames made in both King Tide 6 and King Tide 8, the $700 collectors items sold out in just over 12 hours. The same week, Costa debuted King Tide at ICAST 2023, where it took home the Best in Show Award in the eyewear category.  The coveted award recognizes the sportfishing industry’s innovative and entrepreneurial spirit, and rewards that ingenuity with awards in several categories, including eyewear. 

"The moment we've been waiting for all summer is finally here," said John Sanchez, Vice President of Global Product Strategy for Costa Sunglasses. "This frame has been five years in the making and is the product of every lesson we've learned in our 40 year history on the water. The success of our initial launch was more than we could have imagined, as well as the level of psych from pros, partners and the media - it's all been a wild ride, ending in the global release. This frame, and how well it’s been received, is why we love what we do. We are a proud Costa community, united by the water and by a thirst to explore everything it has to offer.”  

King Tide is equipped with Costa's cutting-edge polarized 580® glass lens technology, providing exceptional clarity and color enhancement. These scratch-resistant lenses effectively reduce haze and blur, while boosting essential colors for superior definition. Built with Costa's proprietary Bio-Resin, King Tide is also lightweight and maintains the durability necessary for any watery adventure.

MSRP for King Tide 6 and King Tide 8 starts at $329. For more information about King Tide and Costa’s complete collection of award-winning performance, lifestyle and optical 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, #OneCoast efforts 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.

Uplifting Flyby

 Enjoying a much needed cigar on the balcony this evening and this guy honored me with a flyby! 

MCFF Tying Night -- 21 Aug 23

 A great night of fly tying and camaraderie at MCFF as Carl Sanders demonstrated 5 different ways (and a couple variations) to add a weed guard and tail support  to our flies. After the demo he led the membership, new and tenured, in tying a simple Crystal Schminnow in which each tier added the weed guard technique of their choice! Many thanks to Carl for taking on the fly tying leadership role and the monumental task of reorganizing the club's tying materials and tools!! As always, all are welcome and I'll be glad to save you a seat!

 

Mid Coast Fly Fishers Meeting -- 14 August 2023

 It was great to be back at the MCFF general meeting last night! We had a good, late-summer turnout that led to great discussions of the state of the Mosquito Lagoon, the upcoming Annual Open House, fishing reports, fly selection and even some casting on the lawn! Looking forward to Tying Night next Monday. As always, All are welcome and I'll be glad to save a seat for you!

Core Merino Wool Collection -- Sitka Gear Press Release 17 July 2023

 

SITKA Gear Introduces Core Merino Wool Collection New Merino wool base layers create an intuitive, durable three-tiered system for outdoor enthusiasts

The refreshed Merino base layer collection creates a simple, intuitive and easy-to-shop system featuring all of the properties consumers love about wool with the added value of a more durable, longer lasting ArmorSpun wool material.   BOZEMAN, MT. (July 17, 2023) – Merino wool base layers have long been relied on for key features like temperature regulation, breathability and odor resistance properties, with one drawback—longevity. Now, SITKA, the leader in high-performance hunting apparel, is introducing its new ArmorSpun Merino Wool that allows for the best of both worlds with materials built for rigorous, extended use while maintaining the properties of wool that outdoor adventurers demand in the field.   The Core Merino Collection features a simple, intuitive and easy-to-shop three-tiered system that allows consumers to easily adapt their comfort level given their day-to-day needs. Unlike other wool products, the easy-care Merino fabric is pre-shrunk and can be washed with other active gear with options in three weights - 120 gram, 220 gram and 330 gram - the SITKA Core Merino Collection offers endless possibilities when worn on their own during warmer early season temperatures or as foundational base layers in colder late season weather.   “Merino wool base layers have long been sought out by outdoor enthusiasts for their exceptional qualities. However, longevity has been a common concern,” said Chris Derrick, Product Manager at SITKA Gear. “With our ArmorSpun Merino Wool, we have bridged the gap, creating materials that improve durability while preserving the properties of wool that are indispensable.”     Core Merino 120 Series The Core Merino 120 Series, the lightest of the three series, is expertly designed for demanding outdoor activities. Whether worn independently during early season warmth or as a foundational base layer as temperatures drop, the 120 series offers a range of options, including four men’s and two women’s variations, to suit individual preferences.   Men’s Core Merino 120 LS Crew • Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering • Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack • Total weight: 6.1 oz. MSRP: $119   Men’s Core Merino 120 SS Crew • Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack • Total weight: 4.8 oz. MSRP: $89   Men’s Core Merino 120 Hoody • Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack • Contoured hood for coverage and concealment • Breathable merino wool mesh facemask for concealment • Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables • Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering • Total weight: 8 oz. MSRP: $169   Men’s Core Merino 120 Bottom • Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort • Total weight: 4.7 oz. MSRP: $119   Women’s Core Merino 120 LS • Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering • Total weight: 4.4 oz. MSRP: $119   Women’s Core Merino 120 Bottom • Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort • Total weight: 3.5 oz. MSRP: $119   Core Merino 220 Series The Core Merino 220 series is built for rigorous use and is the middle of the three weights, making it the most versatile. It’s perfect on its own in mild conditions or as a foundational base layer when the weather gets cold. The 220 series includes three options for men and a half-zip in women's sizes.   Men’s Core Merino 220 Half-Zip • Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack • Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables • Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering • Total weight: 11.1 oz. MSRP: $199   Men’s Core Merino 220 Bottom • Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort • Total weight: 7.8 oz. MSRP: $129   Men’s Core Merino 220 Boxer • Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort • Total weight: 4.6 oz. MSRP: $60   Women’s Core Merino 220 Half-Zip • Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables • Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering • Total weight: 8.5 oz. MSRP: $199   Core Merino 330 Series The Core Merino 330 series is built for rigorous use and is the warmest of the three weights. Built with a recycled synthetic interior, the result is an ideal foundational base layer that prevents the clammy and itchy feeling often associated with heavyweight wool.   Men’s Core Merino 330 Half-Zip • Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack • Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables • Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering • Total weight: 15 oz. MSRP: $219   Men’s Core Merino 330 Hoody • Contoured hood for coverage and concealment • Low-profile hand warmer pocket • Breathable merino wool mesh facemask for concealment • Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack • Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables • Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering • Total weight: 18.7 oz. MSRP: $249   Men’s Core Merino 330 Bottom • Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort • Total weight: 11.3 oz. MSRP: $139   Men’s Core Merino 330 Zip-Off Bottom • ¾-length design eliminates bunching around your boot tops • Full-length side zips make for easy on/off without removing your boots • Color coded waistband tabs for correct alignment of side zippers • Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort • Total weight: 10.9 oz. MSRP: $159   Women’s Core Merino 330 Half-Zip • Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack • Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables • Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering • Total weight: 12.4 oz. MSRP: $219   Women’s Core Merino 330 Hoody • Contoured hood for coverage and concealment • Low-profile hand warmer pocket • Breathable merino wool mesh facemask for concealment • Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack • Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables • Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering • Total weight: 16.8 oz. MSRP: $249   Women’s Core Merino 330 Legging • Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort • Total weight: 8.8 oz. MSRP: $139   Merino 330 Glove • Touch screen compatible Ax® Connect thumb and forefinger • Total weight: 2.2 oz. MSRP: $49   Merino 330 Beanie • Total weight: 1.7 oz. MSRP: $40 Available: July 17th, 2023   Learn more about SITKA Gear here.   ### About SITKA Gear SITKA Gear, based in Bozeman, Montana, created and leads the technical hunting apparel category. The company is recognized for its commitment to continually improving the life experience of the hunter and for its support of healthy ecosystems and wildlife populations. SITKA products work together in systems, and each piece is designed and tested rigorously in both the lab and the field. SITKA is owned by W.L. Gore & Associates, an advanced materials company well known for Gore-Tex™ fabrics and many other industry-leading innovations that provide durable comfort and protection to outdoor enthusiasts. Go to sitkagear.com to learn more about how SITKA enhances the full life experience of the hunter.