The Fishing Club Journal - Issue #23
A reader-supported community and publication.
Welcome to Issue #23 of the Fishing Club Journal.
This is our final issue for 2023, and we couldn’t think of a more fitting way to celebrate the “best of” our inaugural year. Over the past 10 months, we’ve published 23 issues of the Fishing Club Journal, featuring a diverse array of creators, guides, outfitters, film directors, chefs, artists, musicians, and conservation initiatives from all over the globe.
This issue highlights some of the most rad content we curated throughout the year. We hope you enjoy it.
Happy New Year, and stay fishy!
— Michael, Co-Founder
A Follow (Issue #7) — In Issue #7, we featured Patrick Duke, an incredibly talented oil painter and fishing guide, who is also an all-around cool guy. That issue was special for us because it was all about Tarpon. We reserved some of our favorite Tarpon-themed content for it, including the highlight of Patrick’s appearance in "Silver Kings" (S8 Ep6) alongside Capt. Jared Raskob. (Spoiler alert: his casting is impressively smooth). Whether immersed in his studio, brush in hand, or chasing fish from the skiff, Patrick is invariably adorned in the latest threads from Howler Bros.
If you haven’t already, be sure to give him a follow at @artandangling.
A Video (Issue #19) — We'd be hard-pressed to find a more fitting video for this feature than the Costa’s Marlin Project, which we highlighted in Issue #19. It ticks all the boxes: it's entertaining, George and Rudy exude authenticity, it's anchored in science-based conservation, and the production quality is top-notch. The film delves into one of the world's most extraordinary Striped Marlin fisheries in Magdalena Bay, Mexico, presenting an epic journey into a world of community-driven conservation and adventure.
Be sure to follow George VanDercook and Rudy Babikian, the founders and co-owners of Los Locos Mag Bay.
// Production Team //
DP: Perrin James | Cinematography/Post Production Wiley Watson | Sound: Keith White Audio | Photography: Nick Price
A Photo (Issue #1) — Dylan Schmitz is a master behind the lens, you can also find him traveling, and angling, with a notable distaste for jet skis. He was the first creator we featured in Issue #1 and continues to impress us with his unique style and vibes. You'll likely recognize his work throughout our journal, including a few of our covers. Notably, he captured an incredible half-in, half-out split shot in Florida while collaborating with the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust on the Isotope Study, and his work also graced the cover of Issue #13.
Be sure to follow him at @dylanschmitz.
A Story (Issue #11) — Catching all four species of permit on a fly rod is an incredible achievement. In Issue #11, John Snipes shared his experiences targeting these elusive fish. The commonly pursued permit species are the Atlantic, Indo-Pacific, African, and Anak, each presenting its own unique challenges and rewards. These species captivate passionate anglers worldwide with their distinct characteristics and the skill required to catch them.
Read the full story in Flylords Magazine, and be sure to follow John at @stripstruck for more insights and adventures.
An Outfitter (Issue #13) — The first outfitter we featured this year was On The Fly Outfitters, located in Brunswick, GA. Their Falconry Retreats initially piqued my interest. After speaking with co-owner Jared DiVincent, it became evident that this place was extraordinary, deeply intertwined with community and conservation efforts, making it a perfect highlight for Issue #13. On The Fly Outfitters is more than just an outdoor retailer; they specialize in a diverse array of activities, including fly fishing, falconry, camping, hiking, and adventure travel. In addition to their retail offerings, they conduct Fly Fishing Classes, offer remarkable Falconry Retreats, and provide Fishing Charters. Jared also serves as the Vice President of the Georgia Saltwater Anglers Association (GSAA), working alongside Chad Dubose from Tall Tide Charters in Savannah, the President, a non-profit committed to safeguarding Georgia’s fisheries, particularly focusing on Redfish regulations.
Here is a collection of photos from falconry hunts and fishing with their friends - Frigate Reserve Rum, Oliver White, Flip Pallot, Bre Drake, Sight Line Provision and others. Photos by Jon Coudriet & Jonathan Nimerfroh, Bre Drake and On The Fly Outfitters.
A Guide (Issue #14) — A few months ago, my friend George Croton returned from the Florida Keys, still buzzing from an unforgettable Tarpon fishing trip guided by Capt. Benny Blanco, an award-winning conservationist, tournament-winning fishing guide, passionate father and acclaimed television host. George's stories, especially about Benny, resonated with us all the way in northern California. Benny, impressed George so much with his deep passion for marine conservation and his commitment to being a voice for change.
In Issue #14, we spotlight Benny's work with Captains for Clean Water, as featured in the Mill House Podcast. His viewpoint, especially during a conversation with Nicky & Andy (55:39 min/sec), about the importance of a united angling community was particularly simple and impactful: anglers in Montana should care about the water in the Everglades, and vice versa. When anglers act as one community, real progress is made. Benny does more behind-the-scenes work than anyone truly knows, setting a positive example for us all.
Discover more about Benny and his work by following his Instagram.
A Recipe (Issue #2) — If you're a regular reader of the Fishing Club Journal, you're undoubtedly familiar with our admiration for Chef Paul Delrez. His unique culinary style masterfully combines nostalgia with innovation, striking a balance between complexity and simplicity. Don't miss the croaker crudo recipe we featured in Issue #2 – it's a testament to his talent.
For more of his culinary creations, be sure to follow him on Instagram @delrezpaulchef and subscribe to his Substack!
A Song (Issue #16) — For those who have experienced the thrill of pursuing Permit with a fly rod, the song “My Witch,” featured in Issue #16, might resonate deeply. It encapsulates themes of attraction, desire, and the enigmatic allure that can be likened to the chase of this elusive fish.
“My Witch” by Moderator isn't just a song; it's an experience that captivates the senses. The lyrics vividly depict someone (or something) that is both enchanting and unpredictable, drawing parallels to the complex nature of fly fishing for Permit. The song's mystical imagery and haunting verses create an atmosphere of ritualistic pursuit, echoing the angler's relentless quest to unravel the mystery of this elusive quarry.
Mike Adno summed it up nicely in Drake Magazine.
A Cover (Issue #16) — One of the most captivating elements of any magazine is undoubtedly its cover. This year, we published 23 diverse covers on Instagram, showcasing everything from fish and artists to anglers, guides, and stunning tropical destinations. Which one captured your imagination the most?
When it comes to engagement, one cover stands out above the rest: Issue #16, featuring a triumphant shot of Nathaniel Linville from The Angling Company in Key West, captured by the talented Brandon Cyr.
A Bag (Issue #3) — If you've ever embarked on a flats trip or spent a day fishing from a boat, the thought of purchasing a waterproof backpack has likely crossed your mind. Fortunately, there are numerous options available. Our pick, featured in Issue #3, is the 28L Panga. Not only is it stylish and versatile, but it's now offered in three different colorways.
Check out the new Black Panga quietly released earlier this year.
That's a wrap! We sincerely hope you've enjoyed the content we've curated and shared with you this year. As we turn the page to 2024, our excitement is brimming with the promise of bringing even more engaging and inspiring stories, along with some exciting new offerings for our club members. Happy New Year, and as always, stay fishy!
Our Mission
To inspire stewards of our fisheries so they thrive for future generations.
The Fishing Club Journal (FCJ) is our vehicle for advancing this mission. We’re a reader-supported publication curating stories that illuminate the passion, and positivity inherent in the world of fly fishing. To unlock full member benefits, consider becoming a paid member.
