#1 - Why the most trusted names in fishing don’t advertise

No loyalty programs. No ads. Just lifelong customers.

Author

Preston C
April 09, 2025

Last summer, while out of town visiting family, I stopped by a small, but surprisingly busy, fly shop. I needed to pick up a few flies and see if I could gain any local insight. As I was grabbing some flies, I noticed the guy behind the desk greeted everyone by name as they walked in the door, and it seemed like they were all old friends. Probably because they had all been stopping by this shop for years.

Fly fishing is growing fast, with the U.S. market expected to hit $1.8B by 2033. Big brands are chasing trends and working with all the influencers.

Meanwhile, the local fly shops, often times with zero online presence, are quietly building the strongest and most loyal followings.

What makes them stick?

They’re your neighbors.

They’ve been fishing your home water long before it ever showed up on social media.

The flies they tie are made specifically for the water you’re fishing.

And they’ll tell you exactly what you need—because chances are, they were on the river yesterday.

So support your local fly shop. Get to know them—you won’t regret it.

❓Trout Trivia of the Week!

🐟 The Weekly Roundup

🎥 Instagram Posts of the Week!

🔥 Always be prepared to catch a trout!
🎥: Tanner Rubinstein

🔥 How to make a small fish look big!
🎥: Joab Logan

🎥 YouTube Video of the Week!

I’m a huge fan of Tight Loops and am always stoked when they put out a new film. I was especially stoked to see this recent film featuring the Bear River Cutthroat Trout, being that I am from Utah and have spent a lot of time in the areas they visited. For any true trout junkies out there, this film is definitely worth the watch!

Wrapping Up

That’s it for this week’s report! If you made it this far, you’re a legend! Maybe consider sending this to a buddy who might also be into it.

If there’s anything you want to see more of, hit reply and let me know.

— Preston