Casting Unity: The Rise of International Women's Fly Fishing Day

Ladies, grab your rods and feel the empowerment as the sisterhood surges along the riverbanks and oceans alike. Today, we shine a spotlight on Madeline Kelly, an inspiring angler whose unwavering passion for fly fishing has ignited a global movement — International Women's Fly Fishing Day. It’s a celebration not just of technique, but of camaraderie and the shared joy of being out on the water.

In the midst of the global pandemic, when isolation gripped many, Kelly turned solitude into an opportunity for community. Her mission was straightforward yet powerful: envision more women casting purposefully and confidently into the water. This vision took flight in 2020 as a humble 'lockdown' initiative and has since blossomed into an annual event. Now, more than 2,600 women from 25 countries share their fishing adventures online, painting a vibrant picture of what it means to stand up, cast out, and unite.

Why It Matters

The world of fishing has long stood as a male-dominated arena. However, the tides are turning. According to recent statistics, women comprise approximately 30% of all anglers in the U.S., a number that continues to grow every year. With movements like the Irish Ladies Flyfishing Association leading the charge — where Kelly wields influence as the Public Relations Officer — women are encouraged to step up to the water’s edge with pride and confidence.

Imagine the scene at the Laois Angling Centre near Portlaoise, a haven where learning and laughter intermingle like the ripples on the water’s surface. Here, under the guidance of legends like Julie Gerry — the first and only woman to claim victory at the Fly Fishing World Cup — novices learn the art of casting. The air buzzes with shared triumphs and tales swapped over gear and snacks, creating a bond as strong as the line that connects them to the catch.

The Healing Power of Water

Fly fishing holds more than just the promise of a catch; it offers therapeutic gifts unparalleled by many outdoor activities. Anne Kerrin, Chair of the Irish Ladies Flyfishing Association, eloquently observes how the sport envelops its participants in nature's embrace. The steady rhythm of casting, the physical challenge of wading, and the meditative focus required to watch the water ebb and flow bring significant boosts to both physical health and mental well-being.

Yet, despite these benefits, obstacles such as time constraints and safety concerns can deter women from taking up fishing. Kelly acknowledges these barriers but remains resolute. She fosters environments where women can feel safe, empowered, and free to explore the sport together without fear.

A Call to Conservation

Beyond personal joy and a sense of achievement, fishing nurtures a deeper awareness of conservation. The tranquil landscapes where this sport unfolds, from emerald rivers to serene lakes, serve as reminders of our obligation to protect them. Anglers like Kelly advocate for the preservation of local waterways, hoping that every new participant will carry this torch in their fishing journeys.

For those inspired by this global sisterhood and the call of the wild waters, why not join us at Girls Fish Too? We’re more than just a brand — we’re a movement where gear, style, and community come together. Dive in, make your mark on the water, and help us keep this vibrant sisterhood flourishing.

By joining hands and casting lines, we're not just catching fish; we’re crafting legacies and stories that ripple across generations. From local streams to international waters, the future of fishing looks bright — and decidedly female.

Read the original article by Sinéad Hussey here.

Let's keep the spirit alive, ladies — after all, some days you’re the current, some days you're the snag, but every day you’re a part of something bigger. That’s the power of fishing, and that’s the power of us.