2022 Orvis-Endorsed Finalists & Award Winners
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2022 Orvis-Endorsed Fly-Fishing Lodge of the Year
WINNER—Alaska Sportsman’s Lodge
“This was my first time going to Alaska and first time fly fishing. I was absolutely amazed by the facilities and what they offered. I can't even begin to comment on the staff, they were simply AMAZING! They do everything humanly possible to ensure you have an incredible experience. I can’t wait to go back.”
FINALISTS:
2022 Orvis-Endorsed Wingshooting Lodge of the Year
WINNER—Greystone Castle Sporting Club, TX
“The staff is courteous and no request is ignored, too big, or too small. The food is exceptional. The facilities are clean, up-to-date, and well-appointed. Hunting is some of the best in the industry. Abundant hard-flying birds over beautiful and forgiving terrain. Most importantly, the dog work and the knowledge and conduct of the handlers are simply unrivaled. Do not miss out on an opportunity to relax and hunt at Greystone!”
FINALISTS:
2022 Orvis-Endorsed International Destination of the Year
WINNER—El Pescador Lodge, Belize
“My family had an experience we will remember for the rest of our lives! Every member of the staff goes above and beyond to make sure the details of your stay are taken care of quickly and with a smile. The fishing was great, but it’s the staff that will keep me coming back. The lodge staff goes out of their way to ensure non-angling guests have a great time and receive the same amazing customer service as the angling clients. Don't be afraid to bring your non-angling spouse or friends; they will enjoy every moment!”
Photo ©: Jess McGlothlin Media
FINALIST:
2022 Orvis-Endorsed Fly-Fishing Outfitter of the Year
WINNER—Willowfly Anglers, CO
“Honestly, since I had never fly fished before, to say I was a little anxious and intimidated would be an understatement! However, after our guide got us loaded up and on our way, my anxiety soon turned to pure enjoyment! Their professionalism, kind words of encouragement, and downright great attitude made my first day of fly fishing an unforgettable memory that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I’m hooked!”
FINALISTS:
2022 Orvis-Endorsed Fly-Fishing Guide of the Year
WINNER—Bryan Donoway, MD
“Thoroughly enjoyed my first fly-fishing experience. Been fishing my whole life, but never fly fishing. It was something I always was interested in, but thought it looked too difficult. My hubby arranged for Bryan to take us out to learn as a birthday gift for me. One of the best gifts ever! Had so much fun and learned A LOT! I learned that it's definitely a different way to fish, but not hard at all like I thought. Bryan answered all of my many questions and never complained about fixing my tree-snagged line over and over. HAHA! Bryan was versed in everything about the Gunpowder Falls waterway we were fishing in, right down to every bug around! You could tell he loves the water and teaching others about its wonder. We highly recommend asking Bryan to take you out for a fun-filled educational day on the water.”
FINALISTS:
2022 Orvis-Endorsed Wingshooting Guide of the Year
WINNER—Dave Brown, Arizona Quail Guides, AZ
“I spent a couple days with Dave and his guys in mid-December chasing quail. As Dave let me know, Mearns were a little spotty this year, however, I was able to cross off a ‘bucket list’ bird. Great dude, great dog work. Mearns country is beautiful, which made the trip worth it in itself. Another day we set out for gambles and scaled quail. We definitely got into birds. It was a memorable day. It's obvious that Dave and his guys put in the time scouting and know how to find coveys. It's apparent that their dogs work a lot of birds. Lunch from the local bakery in Patagonia was way better than a tailgate lunch should be, too! The customer service from Dave and Lisa leading up to and after the hunt was excellent.”
FINALISTS:
2022 Orvis Lifetime Achievement Award
Lincoln Westby, Blue Horizon Lodge, Belize
Lincoln Westby began his guiding career in 1971, and at 79 years old today, he’s the head guide at Blue Horizon Lodge and still getting out on the water. Few other guides have been able to retain his passion for fishing for as long as he has. You won’t hear him complaining about anything … because he plain loves being on the water and helping guests catch permit. With over 2,000 permit to hand, Lincoln is considered the “permit master” and has gained legendary status in the world of fly fishing. He has led seminars and lectures about fishing for permit and conserving their habitat in Belize. He has trained dozens of the top guides in Belize and is eager to share his knowledge with anyone who is interested in learning more about permit.
2022 Orvis Fly Shop of the Year
WINNER—Northwest Outfitters
“Great local fly shop. If I lived closer I would be in trouble and probably broke. Tough to leave here without buying something. I think the expression is, 'don’t go grocery shopping on an empty stomach.' Well, don’t go to this shop if you are hungry for fly-fishing equipment and materials. Great staff, very informative and helpful. Visit if you are in the area and be prepared for a great experience.”
FINALISTS:
Past Winners
2021 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER
PAUL ROOS | Montana
2021 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING LODGE OF THE YEAR
MADISON VALLEY RANCH | Ennis, Montana
2021 ORVIS-ENDORSED WINGSHOOTING LODGE OF THE YEAR
FLYING B RANCH | Kamiah, Idaho
2021 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING OUTFITTER OF THE YEAR
LILLARD FLY FISHING EXPEDITIONS | Pisgah
Forest, North Carolina
2021 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING GUIDE OF THE YEAR
ALBERTO REY | Fredonia, New York
2020 ORVIS-ENDORSED WINGSHOOTING GUIDE OF THE YEAR
MIKE GOLDSMITH | Joshua Creek Ranch, Boerne, Texas
2021 ORVIS-ENDORSED CONSERVATIONIST OF THE YEAR
BRIAN KRAFT | Alaska Sportsman’s Lodge, Bristol Bay region, Alaska
2021 ORVIS DEALER OF THE YEAR
TCO FLY SHOP | Pennsylvania
2020 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER
STEVE GROSSMAN | Double Gun Bird Hunts, Staples, Minnesota
2020 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING LODGE OF THE YEAR
HEALING WATERS LODGE | Twin Bridges, Montana
2020 ORVIS-ENDORSED WINGSHOOTING LODGE OF THE YEAR
PRAIRIE WILDLIFE | West Point, Mississippi
2020 ORVIS-ENDORSED OUTFITTER OF THE YEAR
LINEHAN OUTFITTING | Troy, Montana
2020 ORVIS-ENDORSED WINGSHOOTING GUIDE OF THE YEAR
BJ WALLE | Flying B Ranch, Kamiah, Idaho
2020 ORVIS-ENDORSED FRESHWATER GUIDE OF THE YEAR
JOSH PFEIFFER | Maryville, Tennessee
2020 ORVIS-ENDORSED SALTWATER GUIDE OF THE YEAR
CAPTAIN RENE LETOURNEAU | Pawtucket, Rhode Island
2020 FLY SHOP OF THE YEAR
BAY STREET OUTFITTERS | Beaufort, South Carolina
2019 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER
LONNIE ALLEN | Three Rivers Ranch, Idaho
2019 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING LODGE OF THE YEAR
CRYSTAL CREEK LODGE | King Salmon, Alaska
2019 ORVIS-ENDORSED WINGSHOOTING LODGE OF THE YEAR
SOUTHWIND PLANTATION | Attapulgus, Georgia
2019 INTERNATIONAL DESTINATION OF THE YEAR
HAWK LAKE LODGE | Kenora, Ontario
2019 ORVIS-ENDORSED OUTFITTER OF THE YEAR
CROSS CURRENT GUIDE SERVICE & OUTFITTERS | Starlight, Pennsylvania
2019 ORVIS-ENDORSED WINGSHOOTING GUIDE OF THE YEAR
RYAN O’SHAUGHNESSY | Alpine, Texas
2019 ORVIS-ENDORSED FRESHWATER GUIDE OF THE YEAR
CHIP SWANSON | Breckenridge, Colorado
2019 ORVIS-ENDORSED SALTWATER GUIDE OF THE YEAR
DUANE BAKER | Tavernier, Florida
2019 FLY SHOP OF THE YEAR
ANGLER’S COVEY | Colorado Springs, Colorado
2018 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER
SANDY MORET | Islamorada, Florida
2018 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING LODGE OF THE YEAR
WOLLASTON LAKE LODGE | Saskatchewan, Canada
2018 ORVIS-ENDORSED WINGSHOOTING LODGE OF THE YEAR
JOSHUA CREEK RANCH | Boerne, Texas
2018 INTERNATIONAL DESTINATION OF THE YEAR
SALVELINUS | Spanish Pyrenees
2018 ORVIS-ENDORSED OUTFITTER OF THE YEAR
WILD WATERS FLY FISHING | Mt. Shasta, California
2018 ORVIS-ENDORSED WINGSHOOTING GUIDE OF THE YEAR
MARK NISSEN | Glendale, Wisconsin
2018 ORVIS-ENDORSED FRESHWATER GUIDE OF THE YEAR
JENNY MAYRELL-WOODRUFF | Broken Bow, Oklahoma
2018 ORVIS-ENDORSED SALTWATER GUIDE OF THE YEAR
CAPT. JASON SULLIVAN | Everglades National Park, Florida
2018 FLY SHOP OF THE YEAR
UNICOI OUTFITTERS | Helen, Georgia
2017 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER
MATT LIBBY, SR. | Libby Camps, Maine
2017 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING LODGE OF THE YEAR
BIG HOLE LODGE | Wise River, Montana
2017 ORVIS-ENDORSED WINGSHOOTING LODGE OF THE YEAR
SOUTHWIND PLANTATION | Attapulgus, Georgia
2017 INTERNATIONAL DESTINATION OF THE YEAR
EL PESCADOR LODGE & VILLAS | Ambergris Caye, Belize
2017 ORVIS-ENDORSED OUTFITTER OF THE YEAR
THE TACKLE SHOP OUTFITTERS | Ennis, Montana
2017 ORVIS-ENDORSED WINGSHOOTING GUIDE OF THE YEAR
ERIC HARRISON | Boerne, Texas
2017 ORVIS-ENDORSED FRESHWATER GUIDE OF THE YEAR
KIP VIETH | Monticello, Minnesota
2017 ORVIS-ENDORSED SALTWATER GUIDE OF THE YEAR
CAPT. LUCAS BISSETT | Slidell, Louisiana
2017 FLY SHOP OF THE YEAR
BEAVERKILL ANGLER | Roscoe, New York
2016 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER
CAROLYN PARKER | River Run Outfitters, Branson, Missouri
2016 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING LODGE OF THE YEAR
THE LODGE AT GLENDORN | Bradford, Pennsylvania
2016 ORVIS-ENDORSED WINGSHOOTING LODGE OF THE YEAR
PAUL NELSON FARM | Gettysburg, South Dakota
2016 INTERNATIONAL DESTINATION OF THE YEAR
MAGIC WATERS PATAGONIA LODGE | Coyhaique, Chile
2016 ORVIS-ENDORSED OUTFITTER OF THE YEAR
ELLENSBURG ANGLER | Ellensburg, Washington
2016 ORVIS-ENDORSED WINGSHOOTING GUIDE OF THE YEAR
RANDY MATIS | Elgin, Arizona
2016 ORVIS-ENDORSED FRESHWATER GUIDE OF THE YEAR
JOHN HERZER | Blackfoot River Outfitters, Missoula, Montana
2016 ORVIS-ENDORSED SALTWATER GUIDE OF THE YEAR
CAPT. KEN CHAMBERS | Backcountry Guide Service, Naples, Florida
2016 ORVIS AUTHORIZED DEALER OF THE YEAR
BRECKENRIDGE OUTFITTERS | Breckenridge, Colorado
2015 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER
GEORGE HUNKER | Sweetwater Fishing Expeditions, Lander, Wyoming
2015 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING LODGE OF THE YEAR
MADISON VALLEY RANCH | Ennis, Montana
2015 ORVIS-ENDORSED WINGSHOOTING LODGE OF THE YEAR
GREYSTONE CASTLE | Mingus, Texas
2015 INTERNATIONAL DESTINATION OF THE YEAR
RIO MANSO LODGE | Argentina
2015 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING OUTFITTER OF THE YEAR
NORTH PARK ANGLERS | Walden, Colorado
2015 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING GUIDE OF THE YEAR - WEST
CHUCK PAGE | Big Hole Lodge, Wise River, Montana
2015 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING GUIDE OF THE YEAR - EAST
BROWN HOBSON | Asheville, North Carolina
2015 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING GUIDE SERVICE OF THE YEAR
LONG OUTFITTING | Livingston, Montana
2015 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING EXPEDITION OF THE YEAR
DEEP CANYON OUTFITTERS | Bend, Oregon
2014 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER
DOUG GIBSON | Three Rivers Ranch, Irwin, Idaho
2014 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING LODGE OF THE YEAR
THE LODGE AT PALISADES CREEK | Irwin, Idaho
2014 ORVIS-ENDORSED WINGSHOOTING LODGE OF THE YEAR
FLYING B RANCH | Kamiah, Idaho
2014 INTERNATIONAL DESTINATION OF THE YEAR
THE BOAT COMPANY | Southeast Alaska
2014 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING OUTFITTER OF THE YEAR
UGLY BUG FLY SHOP | Casper, Wyoming
2014 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING GUIDE OF THE YEAR - WEST
PAT KANE | Missoula, Montana
2014 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING GUIDE OF THE YEAR - EAST
PATRICK FULKROD | Bristol, Virginia
2013 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER
JOHN KOWALSKI | PRO Outfitters, Ovando, Montana
2013 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING LODGE OF THE YEAR - EAST
CAMP BONAVENTURE | Bonaventure, Quebec
2013 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING LODGE OF THE YEAR - WEST
FIREHOLE RANCH | West Yellowstone, Montana
2013 ORVIS-ENDORSED WINGSHOOTING LODGE OF THE YEAR
PINE HILL PLANTATION | Donalsonville, Georgia
2013 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING OUTFITTER OF THE YEAR - EAST
LOPSTICK LODGE OUTFITTERS | Pittsburg, New Hampshire
2013 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING OUTFITTER OF THE YEAR - WEST
BRECKENRIDGE OUTFITTERS | Breckenridge, Colorado
2013 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING GUIDE OF THE YEAR - WEST
TIM LINEHAN | Troy, Montana
2013 ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY-FISHING GUIDE SERVICE OF THE YEAR
ROCKY MOUNTAIN OUTFITTERS | Heber City, Utah
2013 EXPEDITION OF THE YEAR
FORTRESS LAKE RETREAT | Alberta, Canada
2013 INTERNATIONAL DESTINATION OF THE YEAR
EL PESCADOR LODGE & VILLAS | Ambergris Caye, Belize