From Fly Fishers International (FFI)
Fly Fishers International (FFI), a global leader in fly fishing education, community, and conservation, is thrilled to announce FlyFest 2025, an in-person celebration of fly fishing, taking place September 26–27, 2025 at the Sheraton Airport Conference Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
“We’re so excited to return to an in-person gathering of fly fishing enthusiasts from across the U.S. and around the world,” said FFI Board Chair Tilda Evans. “FlyFest brings together an incredible community of anglers, tyers, and instructors from all walks of life, while also welcoming anyone curious to learn more about fly fishing.”
Why Grand Rapids?
Grand Rapids is ideally located within driving distance of many Midwest fly fishers and easily accessible by air from across the U.S. and abroad. FlyFest 2025 also coincides with the city’s world-famous ArtPrize festival, giving attendees and their guests the chance to experience both culture and fly fishing in one trip.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Workshops, Seminars & Demonstrations
FlyFest will feature a diverse lineup of indoor and outdoor learning opportunities led by world-class instructors. Topics will include casting, tying, techniques, and conservation.
On Saturday, FFI Certified Instructors will present the Fly Casting Skills Development program, with free casting instruction available throughout the day in a drop-in, “come & go” format.
Auctions & Sweepstakes
Attendees can take part in exciting fundraising events that support FFI’s mission:
- Summer Sweepstakes:Running from May through the event, with the grand prize of a 14’ StealthCraft Ransom drift boat and trailer.
- Silent Auction:Held during the event, with proceeds directly benefiting FFI education and conservation initiatives.
- Friday Night Dinner & Live Auction:The opening day concludes with a dinner and live auction beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, September 26.
Featured Presenters
- Katka Svagrova– A renowned angler from the Czech Republic with 30+ years of fly fishing experience across more than 40 countries. Sponsored by brands such as Patagonia, Costa Sunglasses, Hardy, and RIO Products, she inspires a global following of over 160,000 through her writing and social media.
- Bruce Richards– Industry legend with Scientific Anglers since 1976, world-traveled angler, and co-developer of FFI’s Casting Instructor Certification Program. Author of Modern Fly Lines and Fly Rod & Reel’s 2006 Angler of the Year, Richards is regarded as one of the world’s finest casters and teachers.
- Ann Miller– Aquatic biologist and author of the acclaimed Hatch Guide for Upper Midwest Streams and Pocketguide for Upper Midwest Hatches. Miller is also co-founder and president of Flygirls, a group dedicated to helping women get involved in fly fishing.
EVENT DETAILS
FFI FlyFest 2025
Sheraton Inn Airport, Grand Rapids, MI
September 26–27, 2025
9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily
- Day passes:$15, available at the door
- Pre-registration:Workshops and Friday dinner/live auction require advance sign-up
Full schedule, presenter list, and registration: flyfishersinternational.org/flyfest
About Fly Fishers International (FFI)
Founded in 1965, Fly Fishers International is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Livingston, Montana. As the leading global authority on fly fishing, FFI is dedicated to education, conservation, and community-building within the sport.
Media Inquiries
Blake Parsons, Communications Director – [email protected]
Rhonda Sellers, Executive Director –[email protected]
