National Women’s Fly Fishing Day is celebrated every year on June 27. The day is dedicated to honoring and promoting female fly fishing anglers throughout the world! Emerald Water Anglers is the woman responsible for the establishment of this holiday observation in 2020. Women are encouraged to form friendships with other female anglers in their communities and fly fish, learn, uplift, and support one another. By publishing images, we can make our presence known.
History of National Women’s Fly Fishing Day
Fly fishing is thought to have begun in the second century in modern-day Rome. The practice of simulating a fly floating on the water’s surface became widespread.
Around the 16th century, England manufactured longer, more robust rods with hand-crafted lines. Fly fishing gained off when Europeans landed in the Americas — radically changing the fishing industry.
In the 1800s, technology began to gain traction and evolved into the current approaches we use today. The first brass free-spooling fly reel, which was subsequently adopted by anglers in the United States, is thought to have been invented in England. In the mid-19th century, a fly reel and fishing rod were prevalent among mountain men.
To the untrained eye, fly fishing appears to be a predominantly male-dominated sport. However, if you dig a little further, you’ll uncover the long-standing and enduring legacy that female fishers have left behind. Joan Wulff was the one who forever revolutionized the sport. She won first place in the National Dry Fly Accuracy competition at the age of 16 in 1943. She went on to win 21 more casting titles before capturing the National Fisherman’s Distance Fly Championship with a 136-foot cast against an all-male field. Joan Wulff was recognized as the ‘World’s Best Fly Caster’ by the early 1950s when women’s rights were severely restricted.
National Women’s Fly Fishing Day timeline
Fly fishing begins in modern-day Rome.
Rods with hand-crafted lines are produced in England around the 16th century.
In the 1800s, fishing technology begins to gain traction.
Joan Wulff is recognized as the ‘World's Best Fly Caster.’
National Women’s Fly Fishing Day FAQs
When are trout at their most active?
The optimum time of year to catch trout depends on a variety of conditions, but in general, spring is the best period.
What leader is used for a dry fly?
Leaders that taper.
When is the best time for fly fishing?
The fly fishing season is most active between April and October.
National Women’s Fly Fishing Day Activities
Go fishing
Use this day to go fishing. If the fish you capture is legal in your state, celebrate by attempting a new fish recipe and serving your catch to your family for supper.
Spread the word
Make a playlist of your favorite fishing songs and pack a waterproof Bluetooth speaker to sing along with while out on the water. To normalize the presence of female fishermen in the fly fishing community, spread the word!
Find new fishing spots
Use the Places to Fish & Boat Map to find a new fishing spot in your area. Invite a friend or family member who is new to fly fishing to join you, and use the hashtag #nationalwomensflyfishingday to share your images.
5 Facts About Fly-Fishing
Fly fishing styles
Wet and dry fly fishing are the two basic styles of fly fishing.
Trout and salmon catch
Fly fishermen target trout and salmon.
Five fly fishing knots
Five distinct knots are included in a basic fly fishing line.
Fly pattern collection
Mary Orvis Marbury published the first collection of fly patterns.
Invention of fly-tying techniques
Helen Shaw invented new fly-tying techniques in the 1940s and 1950s.
Why We Love National Women’s Fly Fishing Day
It's re-energizing
You will feel revitalized after a day spent pursuing fish in calm waters. Mother Nature is always reminding us that lush vegetation, pure air, and the soothing sounds of running water are healing and rejuvenating.
It's a way to unwind
It's an opportunity to relax, whether you go on women's fly fishing trips or just spend a day on the water. It's a pleasant break from work, electronics, and household tasks, and every minute spent swimming is one less concern.
It encourages camaraderie
There's no doubt that women are underrepresented in fly fishing, yet the number of female fly fishers is increasing. This day is an excellent opportunity for female fly fishers to develop camaraderie.
National Women’s Fly Fishing Day dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | June 27 | Friday |
2026 | June 27 | Saturday |
2027 | June 27 | Sunday |
2028 | June 27 | Tuesday |
2029 | June 27 | Wednesday |