We had the pleasure of sitting down with angler and fly designer, Kelly Galloup, on a lake near his famous Slide Inn on the Madison River in Montana. During the interview, Brian Flechsig and Kelly Galloup delved into various topics, including their long-standing friendship and collaboration.
However, one particular aspect that captured their attention was the future of fly fishing. We wanted to look more into their fascinating conversation and their shared insights on the evolving landscape of this beloved sport.
The interview kicked off with Brian Flechsig and Kelly Galloup reminiscing about their 31 years of friendship and collaboration. They fondly recalled their early days spent together at the pier marquette river lodge, where they worked alongside industry legends such as Walt Geryk and Charlie Weaver. This trip down memory lane highlighted the deep bond forged over the years and the invaluable guidance Kelly provided Brian as he embarked on his journey in the fly fishing industry.
The Evolution of Streamers
As the conversation shifted to the impact of modern streamers on fly fishing, both Brian and Kelly emphasized the transformative nature of these flies for pursuing trophy trout. They acknowledged how the groundbreaking book, "Modern Streamers for Trophy Trout," authored by Kelly, revolutionized the industry.
Brian further commended Kelly's pattern designs and credited him for creating an entire segment of the fly fishing industry. The proliferation of articulated flies and sinking lines were also discussed as essential developments that have transformed the way anglers fish for trophy trout.
The Future of Fly Fishing
Brian and Kelly shared their optimism about the future of fly fishing, particularly with regards to engaging younger generations. They recognized the growing enthusiasm among youth anglers, attributing it to the excitement and appeal of modern streamer fishing. They noted the positive shift in the industry's demographics, with more young anglers venturing into fly tying and actively participating in the sport. Both agreed that the accessibility of online resources, social media platforms, and YouTube tutorials has played a pivotal role in cultivating a thriving community of passionate fly anglers.
In this video, Brian Flechsig and Kelly Galloup offered their unique perspectives on the future of fly fishing. Their shared experiences and insights shed light on the evolving dynamics within the sport, including the impact of modern streamers, the increasing engagement of youth anglers, and the positive growth of the industry.
With their unwavering enthusiasm and dedication, it's evident that both Brian and Kelly remain committed to shaping the future of fly fishing for generations to come. If you haven’t seen our series of our time in Montana, definitely give it a watch and let us know what you think!
