Hardy Fly Fishing Celebrates Andy Mill’s Induction Into the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame -- Press Release 23 Sept 2025

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Hardy Fly Fishing Celebrates Andy Mill’s Induction Into the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame Celebrated angler and longtime Hardy collaborator honored for his influence in saltwater fly fishing.

COLUMBIA, S.C. (Sept. 23, 2025) – Andy Mill’s induction into the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame is a richly deserved honor that reflects both his extraordinary accomplishments on the water and his lasting impact on the sport of fly fishing. As an angler, author, conservationist, and long-time product collaborator with Hardy, Mill has helped shape the future of saltwater fly fishing in every sense. For more than 15 years, Mill’s fingerprints have marked the industry’s leading gear. His insights and feedback have informed the tapers, strength, and feel behind multiple award-winning rod series – most notably the Marksman Z. He has likewise guided the evolution of the Fortuna series of fly reels, where his exacting standards produced the Fortuna Regent—a sealed-drag powerhouse balancing strength, size, and weight. Mill’s design eye and rigorous testing have not only advanced the Hardy portfolio but have pushed the entire industry to meet the demands of the toughest saltwater anglers. From his early days as an Olympic skier to his rise as a world-class saltwater fly angler, Andy Mill’s record is unmatched. He has won more invitational tarpon fly tournaments than anyone else, including multiple Gold Cup and Golden Fly events. He is one of only a few anglers to ever win tournaments for tarpon, bonefish, and permit on the fly. Beyond tournaments, Mill has deep influence in the sport of fly through writing, speaking and podcasting. He is the author of A Passion for Tarpon, hosted Sportsman’s Journal with Andy Mill, and now produces the Mill House Podcast, with his son Nicky. He is a committed conservationist and mentor. His work with the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, among other organizations, underscores his dedication to protecting fisheries and passing on knowledge to the next generation of anglers.  “We are honored to count Andy as part of the Hardy family,” said Jake Fischenich,  Hardy Brand Manager. “The list of his achievements and contributions to this sport are nearly as impressive as his kindness, patience, and generosity in teaching others. This Hall of Fame recognition is greatly deserved.” Mill’s induction into the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame is not only a fitting recognition of his past accomplishments, but also a celebration of what he continues to bring to the sport through mentorship, media, conservation and gear innovation. Hardy Fly Fishing applauds him for being a bridge between tradition and progress, helping ensure that saltwater fly fishing continues to evolve to meet the needs of saltwater anglers for many years to come. For more information about Hardy, click here.

MCFF Tying Night -- 15 Sept 2025

 

 

Fun tie and a great crowd at Tying Night with MCFF. Guy lead the group in tying the Crease Fly, which reinforced some basic techniques while throwing in foam and super glue. If you don't glue the fly to your hand, you're doing pretty good! 

MCFF meets the 2nd & 3rd Monday each month. As always, all are welcome and I'll be glad to save you a seat!

Salt Life Brand Partners with Eyeking -- Press Release 10 Sept 2025

 

Salt Life Brand Partners with Eyeking to Launch Performance Eyewear Line

“Eyewear is an essential part of the SALT LIFE lifestyle. It protects, performs, and completes the vibe.” — Ryan Sainsott, SVP of Iconix International

New York, NY (Sept. 10, 2025) - The SALT LIFE brand is proud to announce a new licensing partnership with Eyeking LLC, a fourth-generation, award-winning eyewear design and distribution company. This collaboration brings the SALT LIFE brand back into the eyewear category with performance-forward, lifestyle-driven sunglasses designed for life in and around the water. With deep roots in both quality craftsmanship and ocean-inspired living, the partnership blends SALT LIFE’s coastal DNA with Eyeking’s expertise in delivering innovative and category-defining eyewear. “We take eyewear seriously, but we also know how to Live Salty. This partnership is the result of a shared commitment to quality, authenticity, and lifestyle-driven design,” said Darren Goldman, Vice President of Eyeking LLC. “Salt Life has a strong presence in the outdoor market, and we’re excited to help elevate their eyewear offering with product that reflects both performance and purpose. It’s a win for the brand, for retailers, and most importantly for consumers.” Designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts, the new SALT LIFE eyewear collection blends polarized lenses, high-performance materials, and lightweight construction with style cues inspired by life on the water. From offshore fishing trips to laid-back days at the beach, each pair reflects the brand’s mantra: Fish | Dive | Surf. LIVE SALTY. “Eyewear is an essential part of the SALT LIFE lifestyle. It protects, performs, and completes the vibe,” said Ryan Sainsott, SVP of Iconix International. Eyeking’s proven expertise in developing world-class eyewear makes them the perfect partner for this category. Together we’re bringing a product to market that supports every salty moment from the water to the boardwalk. The collection will debut at key outdoor retailers and online at SaltLife.com, with select styles available through specialty accounts and destination lifestyle stores nationwide.

Costa Schoolie and Street Heat Youth Sunglasses - Press Release 9 Sept 2025

 

Costa Unveils New Collection of Sunglasses Curated For The Next Generation Of Water Explorers

As a new wave of watermen hit the water, Costa expands its offerings

September 9, 2025

Liam Giberson in Schoolie

Life on the water is about tradition. From passing along secret surf spots to learning techniques on how to cast, those who share a love of our watery world have often grown up around it. As young explorers set out on new adventures, Costa is announcing an all-new collection of eyewear designed for the next generation.

Kai Thompson in Street Heat

The first to join the collection is Street Heat, a versatile frame blending function and durability with modern street style. Taking design cues from Costa’s Grand Catalina, Street Heat delivers similar aesthetic cues, including micro side shields and hooding for safeguarding from the elements. The new sunglasses are sported by Kai Thompson, a bold new voice in surfing with roots in Southern California. Making a name for himself as a hard charger with a fearless style and explosive presence, Kai’s journey reflects a generation that rides with purpose and dares to be seen.

Costa Street Heat Matte Aqua Drip with Gray 580P

Kai Thompson in Street Heat

Schoolie, a performance frame created for junior anglers, was designed and crafted from the insights of future pros themselves. Mimicking Costa's iconic designs and time-tested performance features, Schoolie helps the next generation of watermen build confidence comfortably on the water through a secure fit and ample coverage. The frames are inspired and modeled by Liam Giberson, a young angler who’s already reeled in an impressive catch list at just 12 years old.

Liam Giberson in Schoolie

“According to data from the American Sportfishing Association, participation from the younger demographic in water-related activities has been consistently growing over the last several years. Across fishing specifically, there’s an average of 12.7 million reported participants,” said Jed Larkin, Brand Marketing Director at Costa. “As a company that’s dedicated to creating the highest quality, best-performing sunglasses on the planet, we’re honored to have the chance to play a part of their journey on the water.”

Costa Schoolie Tiger Shark with Blue Mirror 580P

Liam Giberson in Schoolie

Schoolie and Street Heat are now available on CostaDelMar.com and select retailers nationwide starting at $130. To follow the latest news from Costa, join the community at @CostaSunglasses on Instagram, Facebook, and X.

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 X at @CostaSunglasses.