The Rhody Fly Rodder Story
For over half a century, the Rhody Fly Rodders have been building a community rooted in passion for saltwater fly fishing. From founding a legacy and fostering camaraderie, to sharing knowledge, embracing innovation, promoting stewardship, and engaging members across generations, the club has always been about more than just the catch. Our story is one of connection, learning, and giving back — “Pass on to all, who ask, what you learn here.”
1963: Casting a Legacy
In 1963, anglers from several East Bay sporting clubs formed a club dedicated to saltwater fly fishing. Led by Harold Gibbs and Al Brewster, they first met at the Rumford Rod and Gun Club in Rehoboth, Massachusetts. After a scheduling conflict, meetings moved to Brewster’s basement in Riverside, Rhode Island, and the Rhody Fly Rodders was officially born.
1965: Building a Community
In 1965, Harold Gibbs and Al Brewster attended a meeting of the Saltwater Fly Rodders of America in Ocean County, NJ. Inspired by the club’s national vision, the Rhody Fly Rodders became Chapter Three, connecting members to fellow anglers and the latest techniques in saltwater fly fishing.
1966 - 1970: Advancing Knowledge
The Rhody Fly Rodders helped develop fly-fishing divisions in saltwater tournaments across New England and the Mid-Atlantic. They also hosted annual striped bass seminars and casting clinics, and were featured in the Fly Fishing Exhibit at Brown University’s Rockefeller Library.
1977 - 1990: Stewardship in Action
As striped bass populations declined, the Saltwater Fly Rodders of America disbanded in 1977. The Rhody Fly Rodders shrank but endured, with members actively advocating for stewardship and improved fishery management. Targeting other species, fly tying, and a community focus were paramount.
1990 - 2005: Innovation Takes Hold
During the Renaissance of saltwater fly fishing in New England, the Rhody Fly Rodders helped drive innovation in flies and techniques. Members shared and refined game‑changing patterns like the flatwing, popularized in the club’s newsletters and tied by local innovators such as Kenney Abrames and Bill Peabody, influencing saltwater fly design far beyond Rhode Island. Their national recognition grew as many published influential books and shaped the sport for a new generation.
2006 - 2018: Fostering Fellowship
The rise of the Internet transformed saltwater fly fishing, introducing members to new ideas and broader audiences. Even as the golden age of the sport began to wane after 2014, the Rhody Fly Rodders remained rooted in charity, camaraderie, and friendship. Members enjoyed active fishing outings, fostered lasting bonds, and built a tight-knit community centered on shared passion and support for one another.
2019 - Present: Engaging the Future
The Rhody Fly Rodders are embracing the future of saltwater fly fishing with renewed energy. The club has become more active, strengthened member engagement, and expanded its online presence, ensuring that passion for the sport continues to connect and inspire anglers across generations.
- RFR Facebook
- Youtube