Since 2007, the Gulf Coast Council has annually recognized individuals and clubs for their efforts to promote and advance fly fishing, fly tying, conservation and community within the GCC.
Each award recipient will receive a personalized mug with their name and award. The mug features an abstract of a redfish tail. It makes for a great ornament on bookshelves or coffee tables, or for use in enjoying hot beverages.
The list of nominees and their achievements will also be published in the Summer issue of our newsletter, The Gulf Streamer.
Fly Fisher of the Year – Roger Apperley
Awarded to an individual whose dedication to the sport has been exemplary, and whose contributions have benefitted one or more aspects of the fly fishing community.
Roger is a past officer of Mississippi Coast Fly Fishers and current tournament director of Gulf Coast Fly Fishers. Roger and his wife Nina has been highly supportive of fly fishing tournaments, with an eye for conservation. He’s also received the FISHES certification. He has tagged numerous redfish, speckled trout, and tripletail over the past years, with several recaptures. As well an advocate for science-based fisheries. Roger is a strong believer in promoting and sharing fly fishing, assisting new members, and routinely offers neophytes an opportunity to fish with him.
Excellence in Conservation – William Strickland
Recognizes an individual, club or group that has made outstanding contributions to the conservation of our fisheries resources and/or their habitats.
An avid flyfisher, William played football under Nick Saban at Alabama, which prepared him for the tough battles that often come with being an advocate of conservation. As Executive Director of Mobile Baykeeper, this past year he led the fight against a Corps of Engineers project to spill dredge the Mobile Bay ship channel – a project with potential devastating impact to all fisheries and the overall health of the bay. But more than just oppose, Baykeeper proposed an alternative that would use the spoil material to rebuild wetlands lost to storm erosion. Though the war is not yet won, the USACE knows they have a large public outcry to deal with, thanks to his efforts!
Excellence in Education – David Rogers
Honor bestowed upon an individual that has excelled in teaching one or more elements of our sport to others (e.g., fly casting, fly tying, rod building, fly fishing techniques).
David took over the role of Fly Tying Chair for Red Stick Fly Fishers in January 2024, and has greatly revitalized tying interest and attendance. He also took on a leadership role for a monthly independent, casual tying night at a local brewery (Flies & Flights). David is always willing to assist beginners, sharing tips for getting started and tying basics. He also promotes tying on the club’s social media pages.
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The FFI Gulf Coast Council is excited to announce the addition of Lisa Lowman to the GCC Board of Directors. Lisa brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and passion for fly fishing to the board. She has also agreed to serve as our liaison for the FFI Women Connect program.
The Fly Tying Group (FTG) of Fly Fishers International (FFI) has published a new book, “Fly Tying for All Fish All Waters”. This hardcover book features over 100 patterns, including tips on tying, historical info, and more from some of the most noted names currently in fly tying.
Last week, Alabama Department of Consrvation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) Commissioner Chris Blankenship signed off on several regulations proposed by the Marine Resources Division and approved by the ADCNR Commission at their last meeting.
It is with deep sadness that we share that Flip Siragusa passed away this Monday, June 9th, after a courageous bout with leukemia and several associated complications. Flip was president of Acadiana Fly Rodders of Lafayette, LA, and a prolific fly tier who had demonstrated at various events, as well as taught tying workshops through Pack & Paddle and at FFI events. He also served as Fly Tying Director for the FFI Gulf Coast Council up to last year when he was diagnosed with cancer.
Since 2007, the Gulf Coast Council has annually recognized individuals and clubs for their accomplishments in education, conservation, service and other areas that promote the goals and ideals of Fly Fishers International. Nominations for 2025 honors are now being accepted. Deadline is June 30th.
Each year, wildlife agencies in each state designate “Free Fishing Days” for the public to fish recreationally in public waters without a fishing license. These events are part of National Fishing and Boating Week, which this year runs June 1st to June 8th.
Launched in 2020, the Tripletail Classic is a fly fishing only tournament in the Mobile Bay area and surrounding waters targeting the Atlantic Tripletail only. In a few short years, it has exploded in popularity, such that the 35 team registration limit is now reached many months before the tournament is held.
